Your Guide To Stellar References

Job search tipsNetworking
Written By Naomi Roth-Gaudette
 

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how much our professional journeys are shaped by the people around us — mentors, peers, and teammates who’ve seen us in action. Those relationships matter, not just day-to-day, but when it comes time to land your next role.

Today’s newsletter is all about reference checks, and how to nail them. Pro tip: Make cultivating your reference network your new year’s intention. Prep them well, thank them often, and stay in touch — you’ll be glad you did. Every job search gets a little easier when your network is strong, and these relationships can be a real asset throughout your career.

References aren’t just a job search formality; they’re a reflection of your community of colleagues, supervisors, and direct reports. Here’s your guide to stellar references.

 
 

1. Prep Your References

Don’t just list names. Set your people up to shine. Let them know which jobs you’re applying to or interviewing for, share the job description, and remind them of specific projects or strengths you’d like them to highlight.

2. Always Say Thank You

Every time someone takes the time to vouch for you, acknowledge it. A quick note of gratitude goes a long way (and keeps them in your corner for next time). Once you land your role, set a reminder for yourself to reach out to your references 3 months into your new job. Let them know how it’s going, and thank them again!

3. “Secret” Reference Checks

We know many of you are keeping your job search anonymous, and the idea of your employer finding out too soon can cause sleepless nights. Still, it’s important to know that some hiring managers do “backchannel” reference checks, reaching out to people they know at your past workplaces (even if you didn’t list them). If you suspect a connection might get contacted, it’s worth giving them a quiet heads-up so they can support you.

 
 

4. Keep Your Circle Warm

Every job search should get easier because you’re building your reference bench over time. Stay in touch with your people. Maybe they’re on your holiday card list, maybe you check in twice a year. Don’t only reach out when you need something.

Something you can consider is setting a calendar event to remind yourself to cultivate your references. You can even choose specific times of the year. For example, I love Groundhog Day - so I always use that as a fun time to reach out. 

5. Balance Your List

Ideally, you’ll have a mix: a former supervisor who can speak to your performance and growth, a colleague that can speak to what it’s like to work with you, and a former direct report who can share how you lead and collaborate.


That’s not all! We’re hiring for additional jobs and you can see all of them on the NRG website.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Post Your Jobs With Us

Are you (or orgs you know) hiring this fall? Our newsletter on October 15th is all about highlighting the jobs from our networks. 

We’d love to highlight your open roles in the blast. 

Submit jobs by Monday, 10/13:

📢 Follow NRG on LinkedIn to stay up to date on the roles we’re hiring for.

📬 Not a member of the NRG Talent Network yet? Take 3 minutes to fill out a quick form and let us know you're thinking about your next role.

Let’s move,

Naomi

P.S.  If you’d like a partner to help you with your job search strategy, sign up right now for 15 minutes with Kristin to learn how NRG’s coaching programs can help you. If you find this newsletter helpful, forward it to your friends and help us build our network! If you received this from a friend, sign up here to receive future “Get Hired'' newsletters.

 
Naomi Roth-Gaudette
Next

Networking Success Stories