Kaye Monty

A recent survey conducted by OfficeTeam found that 21% of job seekers were no longer considered for a position by the hiring manager at the reference check stage of the interview process.  I have been conducting reference checks for over 13 years and know that not all references are created equal.   Some companies can only provide the basics (dates of employment, job title, and salary).  Others will go into detail to discuss job duties, responsibilities, strengths, weaknesses etc.  It is a misconception that employers are only allowed to give positive references.  Providing a bad reference is not illegal as long as it is accurate.

• Ask the reference for permission to be contacted by your potential employers.  You do not want them to be caught unaware and say, “John Smith who?”
• Former managers, co-workers or clients typically provide references.  If you are new to the work place, then providing personal references from professors is appropriate.  (Do not provide your parents as references.)  I typically request at least three references of which two are managers and one a colleague or client.
• Keep in touch with your references so that they know what is going on with you.  It is important not burn bridges with your employer since a glowing reference can help you land your next job.

Potential employers typically do not contact current employers for references without your permission.  I always ask the candidates for permission before I contact references.  This will give them time to notify their references to expect a call from me.