Reference checking is normally the last step before an offer is extended. Don’t let all the hard work you have done finding a great job and impressing the employer come undone by choosing the wrong references, or not thinking through what sort of reference they can give.
Choose the Right Reference
If you are in a full press job search where several employers may be contacting your references, line up enough reference choices that you can spread the requests around. You don’t want one or two references to get overwhelmed.
Also, if you have worked for different types of firms or legal departments, you may have different skill sets that you want to highlight, so you can provide the best fitting reference to each position.
Keep It Professional
Use as references people who can truly speak to your professional abilities. That means lawyers, managers or colleagues from your previous employment. If you are entry level ask teachers from college who know you well to serve as references. Friends or members of your volleyball team will not impress the hiring manager.
Give Them A Heads Up
None of your references should be surprised by your potential employer’s call. Give them the name of the company or firm that could be calling. Let them know the specifics of the job you have interviewed for. This will help them to pinpoint specific feedback that will impress the hiring manager.
Don’t hesitate to tell them if there are specific points you would like them to hit on. For example, “Please let the hiring manager know how helpful my organizational skills were to you winning the Johnson case.” If you have selected your references wisely, they will be eager to help and receptive to any direction you give them.
Don’t Forget To Say Thank You
If you win the job (or even if you don’t) be sure to thank your references for their time and input. It’s important to keep in touch with your network and to express appreciation. Drop them a note or take them to lunch. It’s the least you can do for the help you got in your job search.
At Kent Legal, our experienced recruiters will give you the tools you need to find legal support jobs in Toronto. Contact us to learn more about our legal recruitment services, or search our open legal support jobs today!