References are one of the most valuable pre-employment checks for employers, they provide a window into the candidate’s professional aptitude and attitude. This helps in determining if this candidate would be the right fit for a company, both culturally and based on their skills. 

Your referees vouch for your credibility and qualifications, as well as your suitability for a role. If you neglect to keep your referees informed, or choose referees that don’t represent you well, it could prevent you from landing the job.  

A survey conducted by Monster found that after speaking with referees, hiring managers cull about 21% of their prospective candidates. That’s how much of an impact your referees have! 

Tailor your reference type to the role 

It’s important to choose your references carefully and tailor the type of reference you use for the position you’re going for. If you’re fresh out of university going for a job in your field of study, it may be valuable to include an Educational reference from a professor or tutor, who can attest to the relevant coursework you completed, and how your study makes you a great candidate. If you’re going for a position in social or community work, and have spent time volunteering, you may want a Personal reference from someone who works for the organisation. For most jobs though, you’ll want to include an Employment reference from someone you worked with – ideally a supervisor or manager who can give a glowing review of your work ethic, professional demeanour, and projects you’ve worked on. 

Qualities you want in a referee 

Just as important as the type of referee you choose are the qualities of your referee. You may not want to provide your prospective employer with a referee who is unlikely to actually submit the reference, even though they may speak well of you. You want someone who will follow through.  

You also want someone confident and credible. It can help to prepare your referee by telling them what you’d like them to mention (e.g. achievements, projects, personal qualities), so they can convey how you fit in with the job requirements. Specific information like this can set you apart, whereas, if your referee only provides surface-level, general information (e.g. “they’re a great worker”), you may sink into the crowd of applicants. 

You may also be tempted to provide a referee because they have a fancy job title. While this might look nice on your CV, if this person doesn’t really know you, they may be limited in what they can say about you. It’s better to include someone who can provide genuine information about your professional achievements and manner.  

Handling your referees 

Now, knowing how important our referees are, it is also vital that you treat them well and maintain your professional network. Here’s a few tips on what you can do to help your referees: 

1. Give them notice 

Let your referee know when you’re applying for a new position and give them some information about the role. Knowing they’ll be asked to provide a reference will allow them to prepare for it and complete it in a timely manner.  

2. Keep them updated 

Let them know how your job hunt is going and the kinds of positions you’re applying for. Maybe your job hunt has taken a left turn, and you’re applying for a different type of role now than when you began. It’s important your referees are aware of this, otherwise they might be taken by surprise when they are contacted.  

3. Thank them 

Whether you land the job or it’s just not right for you, don’t forget to thank your referees! Job hunting and starting a new job can be a whirlwind of activity, so make sure you stay grounded, and express your gratitude to those who helped you get there.  

Vetting.com offers streamlined, easy reference checks. They’re fully online, referees just answer a few simple questions on a short form. On average, our references return within 27 hours of a candidate submitting their information. If you’d like to know more about Vetting.com, contact us today.  

Written by Mary Snowden.