Job references are important. In many cases, they can be the last determining factor in whether or not you get a job. Why? Because your job references are a secondary source of information about the real you. Read on to learn more from the leading source of jobs in Stone Mountain, GA—Snelling Georgia Group.
Why Job References are Important
If you’ve gotten as far as an interview, you’re skilled at presenting your very best side in your resume and LinkedIn profile. But speaking with a reference lets a potential employer know a little more. What is your area of expertise? What are your strengths and weaknesses? What’s it like to work with you? What is your preferred workplace atmosphere? All of this information helps a hiring manager make a well-educated decision. He or she doesn’t know you beyond your interview, and needs to choose wisely to fill an open job with the best-matched candidate.
How to Choose a Good Job Reference
So how do you choose references who will help you win your next job? Just be careful to choose colleagues you trust are on your side and will speak proudly and professionally on your behalf. It’s also important to choose someone who has worked closely with you, understand your talents and work ethic, and won’t be rattled by a prospective employer’s questions.
Keep Your References in the Loop
You don’t want to catch your references off guard with an unexpected phone call, so it’s good to coach them a little bit. When you’re in search of a new job, let your references know they may be contacted. Then, provide them with an email of information about you: what you’ve been up to, any new skills you’ve developed and any other good answers to questions they may be asked.
Your Extra Effort will Pay Off
Taking the extra time to secure the right references and prep them for their big moment can mean the difference between finding your next job and being stuck in a rut. So do a little homework when you prepare your reference list. You won’t be sorry.
Ready for Your Next Job?
Let Snelling Georgia Group help! We’re a top staffing agency servicing Stone Mountain, GA and the Atlanta Metropolitan Area, and we’re ready to help you find a job you love! So when your reference list is in place and you’re ready to start looking for your next job, contact our experienced recruiters to learn more!
