References Check, Please!

Quick, think about your résumé: is there a line at the bottom of the page that reads "References Available Upon Request?" If you answered (honestly) "yes," that can mean one or any combination of the following:

• It's been a while since you updated your résumé
• The latest articles on résumé writing tips weren't on your summer reading list
• The template you used to "write" your résumé had it built in already

References are an important component of an overall job search, yet so many job seekers, active and passive, pay little or no attention to that part of the process. And a process it is, one in which many people put so much of the focus on the upfront elements: the résumé, the job search and the interview, and tend to overlook, or completely forget about, the make-or-break references.

In fact, some job seekers have to go in search of their references after the fact i.e., it's a throwaway line on the résumé, and the job seeker hasn't lined up any references before undertaking a job search. In short order, an interview takes place, an offer is about to be tendered based on a reference check, and then panic sets in. Even with access to the almost instant communication offered by a quick text, it may be too late.

So, here are my three simple rules for job-related references:

• Have them - and make sure they're current
• Inform them - as often as necessary
• Thank them - you'll all be glad you did

Let's look at each one more closely.

HAVE THEM, ideally before you undertake any career exploration or job search. The prevailing wisdom, such that it is, is to have at least three references:

• One with whom you currently do business with or work for (or most recently worked for or have done business with
• Someone you work for, maybe your boss or your boss's boss (unless this is a confidential search, of course)
• A personal reference, perhaps from a volunteer, professional or community organization where you've made a positive contribution e.g., coached the soccer team to a winning season, got a website up and running in two days

Other variations on references might include: someone who reported to you (I dislike the word "subordinate,"); someone you mentored in a business setting; a workshop participant you inspired; or someone who proactively asked you to mentor them. Some career advice professionals suggest having different sets of references based upon the target job or career, or related to the skill set(s) highlighted in the job search.

Others offer that a targeted letter of recommendation, when accompanying a well constructed résumé, can be a powerful upfront tool that opens an interview door that might not otherwise open with just the résumé.

Whichever your reference preference, I recommend you Google them, check LinkedIn, Facebook and other business networking and social media sites to assure yourself you've chosen well and wisely. It's best to do this before you ask them, which I'm confident you'll do via a personal call or email to them. Reference checking your planned references beforehand could avoid a potentially sticky moment.

By the way, there's no need to include the phrase "References available upon Request" on the résumé document. It's understood that if asked, you'll provide.

INFORM THEM when you begin the process of job change, job search, career transition, etc. In fact, it's both smart and helpful to share a copy of your résumé with your references at the outset of any search.

And, when you submit for a position, either in response to a job posting or as proactive outreach, drop a brief, informational note to your references so they can understand what type of position(s) you're targeting. Include the URL/link to the job posting, or a copy/paste equivalent. If you've modified your résumé to correspond to a particular posting/description, include the modified résumé with the note along with the posting itself. Bottom line: help them help you!

This works best when you undertake a strategic search, carefully identifying and narrowing down prospects before applying for a position. It does not work, however, if you're mindlessly applying to every posting in sight, "cc'ing" your references each and every time! Sooner or later, your references are likely to say "no no!" You want your references in your corner; you don't want to alienate them as the result of overcrowded inboxes filled with mixed posting messages.

Finally, THANK THEM! First, when they agree to be a reference. Thank them, too, when they are contacted by a prospective employer (outcome notwithstanding); this process may need to be repeated, hopefully not. Then, after you have the written confirmation of employment in hand, thank them again.

Just how you express your appreciation for the part they played is up to you: a handwritten note (yes, hand written!); a personalized eCard; a bottle of wine; a gift card, a magnum of Veuve Rosé, a cruise, something meaningful to them, etc. For all you know, their reference could have been the successful deal closer! Choice, time, budget, and distance may vary, but gratitude should be consistent, forthcoming and authentic.

References: have them, inform them, thank them. You'll be glad you did (and so will I).