Forum - Ask the Hiring Manager

QUESTION:

Hi! I had a question about references. Is it best to ask people first before listing them as a reference? If it's my professor, then should I ask? But if it's my former employer, or my supervisor at my volunteer site, do I still have to ask?

From: Mary, Recent Grad, University of Hawaii


ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:

Hi Mary -

It is always best to ask people first before listing them as a reference. Why? For three reasons:

1. It is a professional courtesy to ask before using their name.

2. It will give your references time to think about what they would say about you before getting the call.

3. If they would NOT be a positive reference, this will give them an opportunity to opt out.

You should not just ask if they are willing to be a reference, but if they are willing to be a POSITIVE reference. You would be surprised how many people use references who do not provide a positive reference. Make sure yours are bullet-proof.

You can greatly increase the odds of your reference being a positive one by asking for a letter of recommendation. First of all, it will give you the written reference, so you KNOW what they will say. Second, many companies will accept a letter of recommendation as the actual reference, so it may provide you with an instant reference when needed.

All my best to you in your job search.

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All job search information at this forum is provided by Brian Krueger, author of the book College Grad Job Hunter, the definitive guide for college grad job search. Used by permission of the author.