A request for references is a standard and positive step in the hiring process. It signals that a company is seriously considering you and wants to learn more about your professional background from those who have seen your work firsthand. Understanding what this request means and how to handle it properly can help you navigate this stage with confidence and move closer to a job offer.
Why Employers Request References
A request for references is a form of due diligence for employers, allowing them to verify the information you have provided and gain a more complete picture of you as a potential employee. A primary function of a reference check is to confirm the accuracy of your resume and application. This includes verifying job titles, employment dates, and responsibilities you have listed, which helps employers ensure they are making decisions based on factual information.
Beyond simple verification, employers use references to gain third-party insights into your capabilities and work ethic. A resume lists skills, but a conversation with a former manager can reveal how you apply those skills in a real-world setting. They want to understand your reliability, problem-solving approach, and how you handle challenges, which provides a fuller picture of your professional conduct.
Finally, reference checks help assess your potential cultural fit. A candidate’s ability to integrate with an existing team is a factor in their long-term success. By speaking with your references, a hiring manager can get a sense of your communication style and teamwork abilities, helping them determine if you will align with the company’s values and work environment.
When You Will Be Asked for References
The timing of a reference request can tell you a lot about where you stand in the hiring process. Employers ask for references toward the end of the process, after one or more successful interviews. This is a strong indicator that you are a serious contender, as companies invest time in checking references and reserve this step for a small pool of finalists.
Receiving this request means you have impressed the hiring manager and they are now looking for final confirmation before extending an offer. In some cases, a job offer might be made contingent on a successful reference check. This means the offer is solid, provided your references corroborate the positive impression you have made.
A less common approach is to ask for references on the initial job application. Companies that receive a high volume of applicants may use this strategy to screen candidates early on. It helps them manage a large applicant pool by focusing only on those who can provide credible endorsements from the beginning.
Who You Should Select as a Reference
Choosing the right people as references is important, as their feedback can impact a hiring decision. Your selections should be professional contacts who have directly observed your work and can speak to your skills and accomplishments. The most effective references are those who have seen your performance up close.
- Former managers or direct supervisors. These individuals can speak with authority about your job performance, responsibilities, work ethic, and contributions to the team. They have a comprehensive view of your role and can provide specific examples of your successes.
- Senior colleagues or team leads. If you are unable to use a direct supervisor, a senior colleague or team lead you worked closely with is an excellent alternative. They can attest to your collaborative skills, your role within a team, and the quality of your work on specific projects.
- Former clients. For those in client-facing roles like sales or consulting, a satisfied former client can be a compelling reference. They can provide a unique perspective on your communication skills, responsiveness, and ability to deliver results.
- Professors or academic advisors. If you are a recent graduate with limited professional experience, academic contacts are acceptable. A professor or advisor can speak to your diligence, ability to learn new concepts, and performance on significant projects.
It is also important to know who not to ask. Avoid listing family members, friends, or anyone who cannot speak objectively about your professional abilities. The goal is to provide a credible, unbiased assessment, and personal connections undermine that credibility.
How to Properly Ask for a Reference
Approaching someone to be a reference requires professional courtesy. You should always ask for permission before providing their name and contact information to a potential employer. This ensures they are prepared and willing to speak on your behalf, preventing any awkward surprises.
The best way to ask is to contact the person directly, either by email or phone. Start by reminding them of your connection and the work you did together. Clearly state that you are applying for a new position and ask if they would be comfortable serving as a positive reference for you.
Once they agree, make their job as easy as possible. Provide them with a copy of your updated resume and the job description for the role you are targeting. This context helps them tailor their comments to the specific requirements of the position. Highlighting a few accomplishments from your time working together can also help jog their memory.
Finally, confirm their preferred contact information and any preferences they might have regarding how and when they are contacted. Some may prefer an email heads-up before a call, while others might want to schedule a specific time. Respecting their preferences is a professional courtesy that shows your appreciation.
What to Expect During the Reference Check
Once you have provided your list of references, the prospective employer will contact them by phone or email. The conversation is structured to gain specific insights into your past performance and professional attributes. Understanding the types of questions asked can help you prepare your references for the conversation.
Hiring managers start by verifying basic employment details, such as your job title, dates of employment, and reason for leaving. Following this, they will move into more performance-related questions designed to uncover details about your strengths, areas for development, and overall contribution to your previous team.
Common questions include inquiries about your ability to work with others, your reliability and punctuality, and how you handle pressure or workplace conflicts. The employer might ask for specific examples of projects you worked on or challenges you overcame. By anticipating these questions, you can briefly discuss them with your references beforehand to ensure they are ready.