References
The final step to your new job is the references. Don’t fall at the last hurdle.
Make your referees aware that you have been made a job offer and they are likely to be contacted. Don’t make the mistake of assuming the person will be ok for them to be a reference for you. It is also a good idea to ask them when the best time is for them to be contacted. You don’t want them to be contacted during a time when they will be too busy to speak.
Make sure they are the right person to give you the reference you need. Is the manager you are giving as a reference able to provide information on your work performance ? Some managers are restricted by what you they can say about you. Ideally you want someone who you have worked for, worked with or has worked for you. Sadly you can’t use family members or friends as a referees.
Prepare your references: Most hiring managers should indicate a time when they are going to contact the references but you may also suggest a time when is best to contact your referees. Make it easy for them. Send your referee a copy of your CV as well as the job description so they understand more about the role you are applying for and don’t be afraid to remind them of any relevant achievements/work you did for them.
Don’t assume the reference you are given will be glowing. You may feel you were a great employee for the referee unfortunately they may feel differently. So when asking a person to be your referee ask them what they will say about you! If they are not going to give a positive and flattering reference take them off your list.
Send them a thank you letter/email. Send them a hand written thank you letter/card or email to show your appreciation for them being a referee. They are given up their time to do so and putting their reputation on the line. They extra step can only be a positive.
Provide a reference for your referee online. If you and your referee use Linkedin you can post a recommendation for them online. You may have already done this. Provide a positive review of them online. Many people return the favour. Do the same for work colleagues as you leave as while it maybe too late for this job hunting effort it puts you in good stead for the future.
Provide the referee’s details promptly to the hiring manager It is important to act swiftly to get the details across to the hiring manager but making sure you are confident you have the right referees in place. If there is a delay e.g a potential referee being away on holiday let them know. The key here is strong communication. A delay in hearing back from you can start to open up concerns as long as they are aware of the situation they should be fine.
Good luck in your new job