Blog Post: How to handle your References

At some time in your job search campaigns you will be asked by a prospective employer or recruiter to submit a list of references. The information provided by your references can either increase or reduce your chances of getting the job. It is, therefore, extremely important that you take some time to be sure you have the proper references and that they are prepared to respond properly when contacted.

After developing your references you should take the following actions:

Contact each reference and get his/her permission for use as a reference. Inform your references of your ongoing search campaigns and what you intend to tell any prospective employers as to why you left a previous position (your Tip of the Iceberg).

When you submit your reference list to a prospective employer or recruiter immediately contact your references and inform them of this action. Also discuss with your references any particular subjects that came up in the interview that might be asked of them for confirmation.

Ask your references to inform you when they have been contacted.

I recommend that you initially develop a list of five references and follow the steps above. Do not include your reference list on your resume. Wait until asked before providing the references.