Don't Take Your References For Granted

If you are actively seeking work, an interview isn't the only obstacle you have to overcome. Because many employers conduct reference checks, you also have to find professional references who are willing to speak candidly about your work history and skills. Before you give the information to potential employers, make sure you know what your professional references plan to say about you.

The Society of Human Resource Management says more than 80 percent of HR professionals conduct reference checks before hiring new employees. Employers typically check three professional references for each candidate, so you can't just pick your favorite supervisor and rely on her as your only reference. You often must give the names and telephone numbers of at least three people who have supervised you or worked with you in some capacity. If you are short on job experience, use a trusted faculty member or volunteer coordinator.

Many companies prohibit their HR departments from releasing detailed information about past employees. For example, your former HR manager may only be allowed to tell a potential employer when you were hired and when you left the company. Don't assume this type of policy protects you from bad professional references. Just because the HR manager adheres to the policy doesn't mean everyone does. Your supervisor may be willing to tell a reference checker all about your employment history.

The best way to make it through a reference check is to pick the right references. Before you start looking for jobs, make a list of all the people you have met in connection with your professional work. Once you identify potential references, ask them for permission to use their names. Not everyone is enthusiastic about serving as a reference, even if you are a talented person with a lot to offer an employer. If someone declines to serve as a reference, don't take it personally. Simply move on to the next person on your list.

If you are worried about what your professional references might say to potential employers, have someone do a mock reference check for you. A friend or family member should call each of your references and ask what the person thinks about you as an employee. If anyone gives a negative or untrue statement about you, remove that person from your reference list immediately. If someone makes a particularly egregious statement, consider filing a cease-and-desist letter to prevent damage to your reputation.

It doesn't matter if you are the best employee in the world. Prove your credentials by furnishing potential employers with professional references who can vouch for your knowledge, skills and professional demeanor. If you don't have a list of references ready to go, start compiling one now.

Photo courtesy of T Hart at Flickr.com