Throughout our 30 years as a reference checking and reference consulting company, we have heard it all… discrimination in many forms, references explaining the relationships / sleeping habits of former employees, HR Managers refusing to comment until the “litigation is complete” and Board Members who say “Are you sure he listed me as a reference?”
It is our experience in reference checking, that a reference does not need to be illegal in order to sabotage a job search. Reference checking services are important because a mediocre job reference can be enough for the job offer to go to another candidate. For instance, inaccurate information on position title, dates of employment or reason for separation, an untimely return phone call or the tone in a reference’s voice could send the wrong message to a prospective employer doing your reference checking. Employing reference checking and reference consulting services prior to your job search can help you get the job you want. And you can never be sure that your former boss will honor a company’s policy regarding references.
As basic as the need for a good job reference is, many candidates take little time or effort in being assured through reference checking that the references submitted to prospective employers are, in fact, providing the type of recommendation expected. Too may people just assume that their former boss can’t say anything negative.
References are as important as your resume in your job search. It is important not to neglect this important aspect of your job search. A positive reference can make all the difference. Companies are very selective about who they hire. Your references will be checked and a positive references can really give your resume that added boost. Don’t wait until its too late. Take the time before you begin you job search to be sure that your references will help your job search and not hurt it.
Consider what one Allison and Taylor, Inc client had to say about our professional reference checking service:
“Thank you for your help in putting my mind at ease. The attempts
to contact my previous boss were numerous and I thank you for continuing
even after some failed attempts. I am very happy I found your services!”
Find out what your former job references are saying about you. Are they positive references and good job references? Contact us today for more information about our reference checking services.