Good references require nurturing

Many hours are spent perfecting the résumé
and cover letter. But when it comes to
references, job seekers often don’t invest
enough time.

By Dory Devlin
Newhouse News Service

"People tend to assume: ‘So-and-so was my boss. He likes me. I’ll call him and
let him know you’ll call,’ " says Arthur Katz, president of Management
Recruiters International in Atlanta.

There are several things you need to do to get the reference you desire. Here
are tips from Katz:

• Assume nothing. You may have a great working relationship with a reference,
but don’t leave what she will say to chance.

• Keep in mind you want references who are able to talk up skills, qualities and
accomplishments that relate directly to the job you seek. Provide references
with a list of recent responsibilities and achievements in an e-mail or letter to
refresh memories, particularly if it has been awhile since you worked together.
Follow up with a call to set up a time to talk specifics.

• Keep in touch. When you leave an organization, make a note of the people
you want to stay in contact with and possibly call for references.

You may not need to ask for a reference for years, so keep the contact fresh.
Don’t call a person only when you need them. Keep them posted on
employment changes and call before a potential employer does. When you do,
go over the key points you would like them to cover. Ask what they will say
about your strengths and weaknesses.

• Respect your references’ time. Share your list only with prospective employers
you truly want to work for.

• Keep a portfolio of accomplishments, large and small. Make note of projects
completed on or ahead of schedule, times you stepped up your workload to help
meet company goals and everyday examples of good work forgotten in the
day-to-day shuffle.

• Look outside the office. The best references sometimes are those you meet off
the company clock. If you volunteer, find a reference to highlight your skills and
traits you show while helping others.

"Leadership positions outside the work environment show you’re well-rounded,"
Katz says.

• Remember to express thanks. This should go without saying, but send a note
to your reference when you get a job. Offer to provide a reference of your own
should one be necessary. Chances are he or she will someday need one.

Copyright © 2002 The Seattle Times Company

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