How Do You Select Job References?

After our discussion about how to handle a bad job reference, I thought it was worth talking about how we each select our references. I'll share what I do and you can add your thoughts in the comments.

My method:

1. I first list people I think will give me very positive reviews. I consider past bosses, current and past co-workers inside the company, and contacts outside the company that can speak to my skills and experience.

2. I narrow the list down to three to five people that I think will give the best reviews. I am sure to have at least one past boss in the group as I think companies expect/want that (and that's about all I have contact with -- I'm not even sure where to contact some of my former bosses). The others are usually mostly peers who know my work well.

3. I ask each person for a reference before sending their contact information to the company. It's a common courtesy and let's them know that they may be called (so hopefully they'll be prepared.)

4. I'm sure to ask them if they can give me a GOOD review. Based on who I'm asking, most will commit to this. If someone didn't, I wouldn't list them as a reference.

5. I submit the list of references to the company.

6. After I get the job (or even if it doesn't work out for some reason), I'm sure to send them a note of thanks -- or stop by their offices and thank them in person if I currently work with them.

That's how I select my references. How do you do it?

Comments

[Kevin]

Nowadays I find that most people don't even give a bad/good reference, they just verify employment dates so as not to be challenged legally.

[Cytoman]

It is risky but I've always been upfront (not arrogant or threatening) with my current employer that I'm looking to advance career and am considering other opportunities. By doing that I’ve been able to list current bosses and coworkers as references. I’ve had great success with it. Here is the list of references I’ve used in the past.

1. Current boss (board member, CEO, CFO, VP, Director, etc.)
2. Former boss (board member, CEO, CFO, VP, Director, etc.)
3. Peer (a person works in a similar position and who is familiar with your work)
4. Peer (a person works in a similar position and who is familiar with your work)
5. Employee (someone who has worked for you)
6. Other professional reference (someone outside your profession who can verify your character, work ethic, integrity, etc.)

[Dana]

I would suggest having at least three strong references with at least one or two being from your immediate supervisor. As a recent graduate you have more flexibility so choose wisely a professor and or advisor, someone who knows your work well. I would also advise you to tailor your references based on the job description. For example, if the job is in the finance field ask a professor of finance for a reference or a supervisor in the finance field.