Picture this: you finally get a call from a recruiter after your interview. You waited weeks to hear back, and you’ve been patiently waiting for your phone to ring. You pick up the phone, and the caller has to inform you that you didn’t get the job. You hang up and all you can think is, what happened? After a great interview, it can be confusing and frustrating to lose out on a position. When you’re debriefing, it may be time to think about that final step in the process – your references. Here’s how you can avoid missing out on the perfect position: by knowing what makes the best references.
Keep Your List Updated
The number one reference mistake our candidates make is an outdated reference list. You need to change your references as your career grows. If you haven’t been in touch, get in touch or replace them on your list. It’s essential that whoever answers the call is able to speak highly of your work ethic and professional experience. This means no friends and family. Your reference list must be former supervisors that can directly talk about how you perform on the job. Anything else, and you’ll likely get overlooked for the job.
Keep Your References Updated
Be sure to contact the professionals on your list of references frequently. They want to know how your job search is going! The more informed your network is, the more likely they can help you succeed. If they’re not aware of your job search progress, they can’t assist you. Even without landing a role, send a quick email detailing your successes and challenges so far in order to get the information out there.
Share Your Accomplishments
You want your reference to be able to relay your achievements. When you earn an award or receive a promotion, notify your supporters. People like to hear about your professional successes, and it gives you an opportunity to touch base. Here are a few tips on how you can keep your reference in the loop on your success.
- Phone Call
- Social Media
- LinkedIn Announcement
- One-On-One Meeting
Be Considerate
Always, always, always give your references a heads up. If you don’t request permission to use a colleague as a professional reference, you’ll have a few issues. First of all, you’re not letting them prepare to speak positively on your behalf. A reference that isn’t aware they’ve been listed won’t make a very good one. Secondly, if you don’t ask permission you might miss that they cannot be a reference for you. There may be many reasons for hesitation, and you want to feel certain they are in your corner. Lastly, it’s common courtesy. A heads-up is polite and allows a reference to do some recon and prepare to fully speak in your favor. Think of asking permission as a way to confirm the best possible outcome if your interview goes well.
Find the Best Jobs in Chicago with Davis Staffing
For more advice on how to finally find the right job, contact Davis Staffing. As a top Chicago temporary staffing service, we know what it takes to get the perfect position. Our team can help you find the right position in our cultivated list of postings with our agency and provide you the insight you need to succeed.
