The hiring process can feel intimidating for new job seekers, especially when employers request personal references alongside your qualifications. Although this step might seem challenging, strong reference letters can greatly enhance your chances of getting hired. Understanding the importance of reference checks and how they influence your career growth can play a key role in boosting your job search success.
For those entering the job market for the first time or looking to grasp the nuances of professional references, this guide is essential. By gaining this knowledge, you can secure excellent references and make a memorable impression on potential employers.
Why Employers Ask for References for Job Seekers
When you’re looking for a job, you typically submit an application along with your resume. Both of these documents demonstrate that you are qualified for the role and serious about your interest. Why would a potential employer need to talk to other people, then? Read on to find out.
1. To Assess Your Attitude
Everybody puts their best foot forward when they are pursuing a position. You probably wore a nice outfit, practiced your interview answers, and tried to make a great impression. The persona that job seekers present throughout the hiring process may differ from their real personality, though. Asking for a professional reference allows employers to get more reliable information.
2. To Verify Your Work History
Sometimes, a potential employer isn’t interested in asking about your disposition or attitude. They may ask for a reference list just to confirm that the information listed on your resume is accurate. Unfortunately, job seekers may lie on their resumes, so employers have a valid reason to check your work history.
3. To Confirm Your Credentials
In addition to verifying the details of your work history, a prospective employer may call your references in an effort to confirm certain credentials. If your resume claims that you possess a certain certification, for example, it’s likely that a hiring manager will make an effort to confirm this — especially if the certification or credential is essential to the job you are pursuing.
4. To Make a Hiring Decision
In some cases, a hiring manager may be considering multiple job seekers who are all equally qualified. It can be difficult for a potential employer to choose a single candidate in this scenario, so they may use your personal references in order to determine who will be the best fit for the job.
How To Ensure Your Previous Employers Give Great Job References
If you’re applying for new jobs, you might be worried that your previous employers won’t give you a great reference — or, if you’ve never had a job, you may not have an employer to provide references at all but surely you’ve “worked” with others and they can speak to your work ethic and attitude. Anybody — including first-time job seekers — can get a great reference with these tips.
1. Give a Great Performance
The easiest way to get a great reference is to offer a job performance that merits a great reference. If you are punctual, attentive, dedicated, and respectful, your previous employers should have no problem recommending you enthusiastically for your future jobs.
2. Ask for a Reference Graciously
When you’re trying to get a professional reference from an employer, it’s important to let them know in advance what you need. If your employer gets a surprise phone call or email with the request, they may be unprepared or uninclined to fully sing your praises. Approach your supervisor or previous employer to ask if they would be willing to provide a reference.
3. Branch Out Beyond Employers
If you’re currently trying to find your first job, you won’t have an employer to provide a reference, but that’s okay. You can still use references to prove your worth to a potential employer. If you’ve done any volunteer work, ask your volunteer supervisor if they would be willing to help. You can also ask teachers or people who have known you for a long time.
4. Provide Helpful Context
When you ask a supervisor or mentor for a reference, you should always provide them with information that will help them give a more effective reference. If you are applying for a customer service position, for example, you should tell them this so that they can mention your skills in this area.
Job Seekers Can Make a Great Impression with Strong References
Job seekers need to find a way to set themselves apart from other applicants. This can be tough if you don’t have an extensive work history, though, or if you don’t have any work experience at all. When you include references in your resume or cover letter, though, you can show prospective employers that you are a trustworthy and qualified candidate for the job.
