Most employers ask for references before offering a job.
But how many references do you need? Who Should I use it as a reference?
As a former recruiter, I answer and share these questions My number one tip on how to make sure you’re providing a good reference that doesn’t sacrifice position.
How many references do you need?
Job seekers must have 3-4 letters of recommendation. For some higher-level positions, employers may require more endorsements.
When you start interviewing for jobs, have 3-4 professional references ready and aim to tailor them based on each employer’s needs.
Three to four letters of recommendation are a good starting point and will get you through the hiring process with most employers.
Now let’s talk about who to use (and not use) as job listings.
the kind of reference to the list
Some employers allow one personal reference (also called a “character reference”), while the rest are professional references, i. They should be people who can tell you about your abilities and approach to work.
For example, if your employer requires three references, they may allow one person’s reference, but will require at least two references from a professional who has seen your work firsthand.
For character references, you can use personal mentors, teachers, coaches, etc.
When building an expert reference list, focus primarily on: recently colleague/boss. Start with your most recent previous employer.
If you need more help, this article will point you to the experts.
Here’s why I recommend working backwards to find references, starting with your most recent work:
Recruiters may see it as a red flag if you’ve only submitted references from years ago. They’ll wonder why you didn’t include a recent colleague…and maybe it’s because you’ve had a hard time lately.
Also, if you don’t include one or two recent managers in your reference sheet, be prepared to explain why.
Most companies expect to speak to one or two former managers when reviewing references.
If you don’t provide a recent boss as a reference, recruiters may ask why.
If you are still employed, your current boss may not know you are looking for a job. Otherwise, say the company has a policy of not providing references, or you can come up with another reason.
Do not include references in your resume or job application
Do not include references in resumes or job applications. Instead, always provide a reference via a separate document when requested.
Ideally, potential employers will only call your referees if they are reasonably certain they want to offer you a job after you have attended a few interviews. .
you should Control When submitting a letter of recommendation for job hunting. Also, you need to know when the reference check is done.
You cannot do either of these things if your references are listed directly on your resume, so always provide a separate reference list.
This prevents the reference from getting too many calls. They didn’t sign up to take her 15 calls from employers who only saw your resume.
Professional references should be saved in case the job is pending.
Speak your job introduction before the hiring manager speaks
One important rule to follow in your job search is to speak with your referrer before the employer calls you.
A bad reference can cost you your job.
What is a bad reference book?
Someone who badmouths your work or says they don’t know enough to comment on the quality of your work.
I don’t want them to answer the phone and say, “I’ve never worked closely with them, so I can’t comment much on their work.”
So we need to ask the bibliography, “Are you comfortable talking positively about my past work?”
This helps remove potential bad references Before They answer the phone with potential employers.
And to help your introducer prepare for the call, tell them the position you’re being considered for and a little bit about the job description.
It doesn’t look good if the referrer knows nothing about the particular position you are interviewing for.
With this basic information, your job listing can speak more clearly and positively about you as a candidate.
Too many references?
Previously, I recommended having 3-4 professional references. But is it beneficial to have more? And is there such a thing as “too many” references?
You can never have too many references in your job search. It’s a good idea to have a few more than you think you need in case your employer asks for more than you expected or you can’t reach one reference.
However, you may have too many references to provide to your employer. Ask employers how many referrals they need and provide the exact amount they requested.
In most cases you will need 3-4 references.
If your employer specifically wants 3 referrals, don’t send them a list of 5. It looks ugly and doesn’t help pass the reference check.
Instead, send us your best three references.
But you never know when one reference will be busy or out of reach. They will also say that they are reluctant to talk about their ability to perform the particular role or position they are considering.
Having a few additional references available also allows you to talk to each reference beforehand to determine if they appreciate your ability.
So bring a few extra, talk to each one and make sure you’re giving the company a list of recommenders who will put you at the top of the list and win you the job!
As a recruiter, I’ve seen the opposite many times…a great candidate who was close to the recruiting stage lost the role due to a bad introduction.
So don’t take reference checking lightly. They’re quick and easy, but they’re important.
Conclusion: How many job postings do you need?
The number of references required varies from company to company, but most require 3-4 references.
Have at least three good professional references to get started, then refer to your employer’s guidance.
Then talk to each job reference Before Talk to recruiters and make them feel comfortable talking to them actively about your work.
Employers consider reference checks to be an important part of the hiring process, so don’t take it lightly when asked to provide references.
