References

It is surprising the number of people that put a reference on their CV assuming that this one person can recommend you for any job which you apply for.

Even worse is the referee that is included for their status alone. A police Chief is a useful referee if you wish to be a policeman or your priest if you wish to be ordained. But your prospective employer is only interested in your ability to do the job in question. This, of course, means the best references come from someone already in the industry or field in question.

Sometimes you will not know which referee is best to use until after the first interview has taken place. As the interview will tell you as much about the requirements of the job and company as it tells them about you.

Also, do not forget the importance of briefing your referees as to what the prospective employer is looking for.

Here is a plan of action you can follow:

1. Network and always keep your eyes open for potential referees.
2. Gain their agreement to be your referee.
3. Brief them as to your strong points and the job requirements.
4. Give them a copy of the CV you are using.
5. As late as possible during the interview process select the most appropriate referees.