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Getting references from other professionals is not always an easy endeavor. Here are some of the challenges you may encounter along the way and advice on making the best of each opportunity.
What do I do if …
My last employer has a policy that prohibits its managers from giving references.
Many companies have officially adopted the "name, rank, and serial number-only" policy on references. This does not prevent the diligent employer or recruiter from using unofficial channels to get information on your performance. The safest rule of thumb is to discuss with your previous boss what will be said about you and negotiate the best reference you can. Be sure your reference list includes the names of customers, suppliers, or other professionals outside of your most recent employer who can validate your skills and achievements.
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I left my last job as part of a large downsizing and my previous employer wants to issue a form letter as a reference.
A generic form letter is fine but push your immediate boss for a personal recommendation that highlights your specific skills and successes. Again, gather supplemental reference resources to offer a potential employer.
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My last boss didn’t like me and will give me a poor reference.
As unpleasant as it may be, it is imperative that you attempt to negotiate a reference from your most recent former employer. Schedule a time to meet and prepare a draft of a reference in advance that you can use as the focus of your conversation. You may have to settle for an agreement that your former boss will state that policy prevents the giving of references. If every effort fails, don’t list this person as a reference.
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I am trying to make a career change and none of my references are my new field of interest.
It is not critical to have references from a specific field to attest to your competency, but it is helpful if you are switching to a new area. Do you know someone in this new arena that helped you get interested in it? Did you have professors in this field? Friends, relatives or close network contacts? Prepare your references from your current field to discuss how your skills and accomplishments relate to the new field you are pursuing.
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My best references are almost impossible to reach.
Ask your reference to give you information on the best time for potential employers to call. The reference may agree to be contacted at home or give you a time slot before or after normal business hours. You can forward this information to the potential employer and hopefully make the process easier for all concerned.
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I am currently employed and cannot use my current supervisor as a reference.
Many people don’t want their present employer to know that they are looking for a new job. Consider asking a trusted peer who could comment on your work ethic and your ability to work on a team. Always be aware that this may lead to a more public announcement of your search.
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If I have very little work experience, can teachers or professors be references?
For those with limited work experience, teachers and professors can be excellent sources of information regarding your strengths and weaknesses. They can speak to behaviors that indicate work ethic, such as class attendance, completion of projects on time and the ability to work with others. Prepare teachers the same way you would any other type of reference.
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A potential reference has said “no.”
If someone tells you no, they are probably doing you a favor. The person might not have enough information about you to feel comfortable giving you a reference or they might not have a completely positive picture of you. You should politely thank such a person and concentrate your efforts on someone else.
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