Requesting a Reference

So you’re moving on to greener pasture and would like a little help from the former boss? A reference, nicely made, could land you that position you’ve been mooning over. This article would help you to get that reference that would eventually land you your “dream job”.

First, a reference should be asked for when you leave a job, not when you find one that is asking for a reference. Why? Because regardless of how outstanding you were at your former place of employment, memory is a fickle thing and so it is always better to obtain one while employers still know what skills of yours should be endorsed.

Next, you may or may not write your reference letter. You could try asking your former employer if s/he wants to author the recommendation. However, to best put your accomplishments on spot light, it is better if you write the letter and just let your former employer sign it. This would save him/her the time of making one while the contents of the letter is left to your discretion. Remember that we are talking about references that you have obtained prior to applying for a new job. That’s why it is important that before submitting a reference name, you should contact first your references so that they would know what to expect when the prospective employer calls on them since a considerable time has passed between the reference and the application.

Regardless of whether you got the job or not, it is important to convey your appreciation for the recommendation. You could send a note or call personally, the important thing is that you have said thank you for the favor. This is a way of maintaining good relationship, allowing the former employer to be accommodating the next time another reference need comes up.

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