I am often presented with CVs that either list the personal details of referees or the classic dumb line ‘References available on request’. These are the common two camps of thought about what to include in your CV. I offer a third position – don’t include anything – (unless the advert specifically asks for references). My reasons not to include referees on your CV:
References are a third party verification of your experience and personality as you presented in your application and at interview. Asked To Provide A Reference? Fantastic, You’ve nailed the interview and it sounds like an offer is in the pipeline. But hold on! Before you send personal information to the potential employer you need to get permission from your referees. Pick Your Referees Wisely If you have extensive work experience, select referees who can vouch for you in a similar role. You don’t need to give your last employer (unless they have specified such). And don’t assume your last line manager is going to be your greatest fan. I worked with a client who was getting interviews but no job offers, once she changed one of her referees that all changed! First, contact your referees and explain that you attended an interview. Name the role and organisation and send them a link to the advert so they can read the selection criteria. Ask them if they are willing to give you a reference and ask them to confirm the following information:
Thank them and tell them that you have passed their information onto NAME of person requesting the reference. Now you can forward your referee details. I suggest that you tell them you have been in touch with your referees and that they are happy to provide a reference for you. You also need to include the context about how you know the person and how long you worked with them. So What Happens Next? It varies, the employer may request a verbal (telephone call) or written reference, they will sort that out with your referee. However, you need to be mindful of the type of information they often seek. Common questions they might ask.
Learn From The Experience If you know your referees well, you might be able to get feedback from them. If they gave a written reference, then ask for a copy. It’s wise to know what people are saying about you, especially your strengths and weaknesses, as you could use these real examples when asked in your next interview. However, if everything went to plan, sit back and wait for the offer. Negotiating the offer is, of course, another topic.
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Kevin CusackEveryday I read articles and blogs about careers, personal development, marketing, IT, and scrutinise hundreds of jobs. Archives
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