Be smart about your references…
March 10th, 2008 by the medical sales recruiter
In my previous post, I talked about how important references are, and how to make sure you have great ones. Here’s some more info for you:
First, I found a list of the Top 10 Go-To People for Good Job References, which should help jog your brain, if you’re having trouble thinking of who to ask. Hopefully you have a network of people in healthcare sales, imaging sales, pathology sales, or laboratory sales to help you, so this shouldn’t be too difficult.
Also, I found one more great article that I think is really important for you to see–it’s about how to vet your references. The most important advice here? Prep your references. Give them a copy of your resume, tell them about the job you are going for, and even give them suggestions for topics they can bring up when contacted.
Tailor your references for the job just as you tailor your resume. Don’t just choose people who like you–choose people who can specifically highlight your capabilities and accomplishments to give you the best chance of getting the job.
Great reminders as usual!
I interviewed a great candidate recently who gave me a list of three cell phone contacts for three professionals.
I was disappointed with the quality of messages these professionals had on their cell phones. None of the three returned my calls within 72 hours. The candidate then gave me two additional contacts - both responded right away.
About a week later two of the first group I had called, followed up with me. By then we had already made the offer.
This was a good reminder to stay connected with references and urge them to follow-up right away. A week later might be too late!
If you are the one being asked for a reference letter here are 9 Key Elements to Include in a Reference Letter.