In my last post I discussed how importing selecting your references is during your job search. Over 50% of job seekers find out too late that former supervisors provide an unflattering reference.
The timing and format of presenting this reference list to a prospective employer can also play a factor in getting that new job. Be sure to have a list of your references readily available (in the same format/font as your resume) to be given to a prospective employer upon request. Better still, offer it at the conclusion of an interview -it can create a very proactive (and favorable) ending impression.
Here is the format favored by Allison & Taylor (www.allisontaylor.com), employment experts specializing in reference and background checks, Cease & Desist letters and resume re-writes:
Professional References of Allison Taylor |
Individual | Frame of Reference |
Stephen Eddy, Managing Director Worldwide Industrial Initiatives, Inc. Work: (555) 000-0000 Cell: (555) 000-0000 |
Mr. Eddy will speak from first-hand knowledge concerning my achievements in the cost-containment and inventory control arenas – I was his direct report over an 8-year period. He will be able to cite several key internationally based initiatives (particularly in Thailand and Malaysia) that reflect my knowledge of material control, procurement and supply chain management. |
Jonathan Riggins, CFO Financial Visions, Inc. Work: (555) 000-0000 Cell: (555) 000-0000 |
Mr. Riggins was my direct supervisor over a 4-year period. He will attest to my credentials and successful track record involving varied disciplines including finance, IT management, material control and supply chain. He will also speak to my performance in key initiatives, in particular in the technology implementation and cost-reduction venues. |
Melanie Magnuson, VP Operations Technology Plus Corporation Work: (555) 000-0000 Cell: (555) 000-0000 |
From our 6-year association at Technology Plus, Ms. Magnuson can cite with familiarity my abilities as both manager and leader. She is well positioned to attest to my corporate contributions in product life cycle planning as well as supply chain scheduling |
Wolfgang Hauser, President Akademie Enterprises, Inc. Work: (555) 000-0000 Cell: (555) 000-0000 |
Dr. Hauser served as both my mentor and second-level supervisor over a 3-year period. Under his tutelage, I was able to hone my craft in inventory control and product procurement. He formally recognized my contribution towards a key product-sourcing achievement (involving a new supplier in Viet Nam) that resulted in a cost savings of $23M. |
Alexander Metcalf, CTO United Technological Services, Inc. Work: (555) 000-0000 Cell: (555) 000-0000 |
Perhaps better than anyone, Mr. Metcalf can attest to – and is responsible for – my expertise in the IT arena. Under his leadership, I was a key contributor in the technological overhaul of our company’s remote site and B2B renovations and was a President’s Award recipient during my last two years with the company. |
Showcasing a diverse offering of references in a concise and powerful format will help to distinguish you in a sea of job seekers. For a critique of your references, or assistance in rewriting them in this format, please click here.
To find out more about reference and background checks, Cease & Desist letters and resume re-writes, please visit www.AllisonTaylor.com.