Opps, I forgot to ask permission. This is a very common mistake. Did you ask your coworker, your supervisor, or the other person you’ve listed as a reference if they were willing to be a reference? If not, that reference call could come as a complete shock to their system, and the surprise may in fact blow any chance of getting the position.
Say what? We often just think that if we can get someone to give us a “good reference”, it will land that job we’re seeking. Commonly overlooked is the communicative ability of your reference reflects directly on you, the applicant. Can the hiring authority understand your reference or do they spend the entire conversation trying to figure out what they are saying; whether it’s due to an accent, or lack of cohesive thought development? Make sure your references are well spoken, and communicate intelligently.
I’m sorry, the number you have tried to reach…. If you have been in a position for several years, and maybe haven’t kept in contact with the references you would like to use, be sure to call through the numbers again to make sure they are still accurate. While you’re at it, ask again if you can still use the person for a reference.
It is important to make sure you provide a strong reference list. Even one bad experience with a reference can cost you the job.
For more on who to include on this list, check out the FREE Webinar through Premier Career Advice next Thursday at 2pm Central: What References Help Most? To attend this webinar, register at Premier Career Advice, and then go to ‘Webinars’.
Melissa Truax
