Job Search Tips

To Whom It May Concern!

If you bring a letter of recommendation to an interview, don’t expect your potential employer to accept it at face value. You might think this letter will put you ahead of those who came to the interview with nothing more than a resume; however, this piece of paper is just that…a piece of paper. When employers check references, they rely on a human voice to find out additional information that often isn’t revealed in a letter of recommendation. So, even though you have a bunch of glowing words to present, be sure you maintain communication with your network of contacts. And always keep them informed of any future employers that may be dialing them up for reference information!

The Golden Rule

Showing appreciation towards your co-workers can be more of a payoff than you think. Not only does it make your environment more pleasant and easier to work in, but it will also be a plus when you need their help in the future.  Don’t refuse to assist someone who appears to be in a bind.  After all, you may be in the same situation the very next day!  Those who are prone to cop an attitude at work can and should expect absolutely nothing in return.  Throughout your career, every individual who gets to know you will also form an opinion about you, good or bad.  And never forget, references are usually nothing more than one person's opinion of another..

Protect Your Valuable References!

Every job seeker needs to prepare a list of references, but hold off on delivering them too soon.  After all, you don’t want every employer to start calling all your contacts prior to an interview!  Who wants to be bothered by dozens of people when you aren’t even close to getting an offer?  This tactic will more than likely turn them off from wanting to be on your referral list in the future.  The best way to handle this matter would be to wait until the employer asks for references and only if you are interested in pursuing the opportunity further.  As a courtesy, be sure to follow up with your references, so they have a heads-up about your potential opportunity.

Always talk to your references and request their consent prior to listing their names on your reference list.  If you detect hesitation, or they tentatively consent but at the same time make excuses that they are difficult to contact because they travel so much, you might want to delete them from your reference list.  Be straight out, ask the individual if he or she is going to provide a favorable reference and will there be any exceptions.  The only thing worse than not having any references is to have bad references - worse than that is unknowingly giving bad references to your prospective employer who is ready to make the hiring decision. 

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