Reference points

With Deb Koen Careers consultant

Lining up references goes hand-in-hand with making a résumé or CV. In the final stage of the selection process, recommendations can make or break a candidacy. To make your references as effective as they can be, follow these three steps.

First, your referees should know your background, have seen your work close up and hold you in high regard. Employers want their good impressions reinforced. Former advisers who will enthuse about your qualifications are ideal. Asking someone to serve as a referee may seem like an obvious first step, but be aware that every day some unsuspecting graduate adviser or laboratory supervisor gets called up out of the blue to comment on the performance of a past advisee or employee. Approach your carefully selected targets to ask if they would be willing to serve as referees and if they would be comfortable in recommending you strongly.

Second: your responsibility doesn't end with the selection and request. When you've got your list, create a reference sheet to distribute to potential employers upon request, usually after an interview and after finalists have emerged. Most employers prefer to check references on the telephone, although some, particularly in academia, may ask for letters. These should be tailored to the specific openings sought. Don't assume that your referees remember everything about you — they need guidance. Extend the courtesy of a call or an e-mail with details about the position. Remind them of the skills and accomplishments that are most relevant to your current focus.

Finally, after your referees have taken the time to speak or write on your behalf, let them know how your career unfolds. Express your appreciation and provide updates. Try not to overuse them, and only provide your reference list when requested. Be sure to share the good news when you get a job, and keep the door open for future opportunities. After all, you never know when you might need a glowing reference again.