Securing a new role often involves more than just a strong interview and a compelling resume; it requires providing professional references who can attest to your capabilities. These references serve as an independent verification of the skills and experiences presented to a potential employer. The manner in which you ask directly influences the quality of the feedback they provide and helps maintain the integrity of your professional network. Successful navigation of this step ensures the employer receives specific confirmation of your value, moving you closer to a job offer.
Selecting the Right Person to Ask
Choosing the appropriate individual requires careful consideration of their relationship to you and the relevance of their experience. A strong reference is typically a former supervisor who can speak authoritatively about your performance, work ethic, and specific contributions. Seek out people who hold a favorable view of your work and have direct, recent experience collaborating with you on substantive projects. A colleague or a professor who mentored you through a significant project can also be excellent choices. The most effective reference is someone who remembers specific anecdotes and achievements that align with the requirements of the job you are seeking.
Preparing Your Materials Before You Reach Out
Before initiating the request, complete several preparatory steps to ensure the process is smooth. Begin by ensuring your professional documents, such as your resume and LinkedIn profile, are fully updated to guarantee consistency with what the hiring company sees. Compile a brief list of the target companies and the types of roles you are applying for to provide context about your job search strategy. Refresh the reference’s memory by noting two or three specific projects or accomplishments you successfully navigated together, which helps them recall precise details and prepares them to offer a targeted recommendation.
Crafting the Perfect Reference Request
When formulating the request, the method and timing of your communication are important factors. Email is generally the most common and efficient method, though a phone call may be appropriate for a former supervisor with whom you have a close relationship. Send the request with ample notice, ideally giving the reference at least one week before the hiring company is expected to make contact. The message itself should be polite, direct, and transparent about the specific job title and company, clearly stating why their perspective would be valuable. Conclude the initial outreach by asking if they are willing and able to serve as a reference for your application.
Supplying Your Reference with Key Details
After the individual agrees, immediately provide them with a comprehensive packet of information to maximize the effectiveness of their recommendation. Include the specific job description, allowing the reference to tailor their comments to the required skills, and your current resume. Beyond these formal documents, provide a short list of two to three talking points or anecdotes you would like them to highlight. These points should specifically link their experience with you to the requirements of the new role, giving them concrete examples to share. Finally, inform them of the anticipated timeline for contact, the name of the company and the recruiter, and the specific method the employer intends to use for outreach.
Professional Etiquette and Follow-Up Actions
Once the reference has been contacted, maintaining professional courtesy is the final step. Send a prompt and sincere thank you note immediately after they confirm completing the conversation with the hiring manager. A handwritten note or professional email expressing gratitude for their time and effort demonstrates respect for their contribution. Provide an update on the outcome of the job search, regardless of whether you were offered the position. Sharing the result closes the loop and shows respect for the reference’s investment, ensuring your network remains strong for future opportunities.