Job Reference Checks
How to Rehearse Your References
Is it ethical to "rehearse" your references for reference
checks?
Sure, as long as you don't hold a loaded pistol to their heads
and demand what they should say!
The idea is not to tell them what to say during reference checks,
but rather to guide and equip them in advance, so you all tell
the same story.
The same goes when requesting reference
letters. If written well, some employers might accept them
instead of conducting reference checks.
Properly equipped, your references can start thinking about what
they're going to say during
reference checks, before they're on the spot and under pressure.
They might even be grateful that you helped to prepare them in
advance, to ease the pressure.
It also gives you some measure of control over what they say,
that you wouldn't have otherwise (without a loaded pistol, anyway).
Here's how to rehearse your references for job reference checks:
- Send your references a copy of your current resume
and cover letter, so they'll know exactly what information
you are submitting to your potential employers.
- Refresh their memories with details of your skills, work habits
and accomplishments. Point out specific accomplishments.
- Provide details of the jobs for which you've applied, so they
can picture you in the roles.
- Give them a list of the types of questions that background
investigators might ask during reference checks. The next page
provides such a list.
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