References can make or break your job search

Job Search May 3, 2009

References can make or break your job search

Reference requests should not be a shock to any job seeker. Regardless of experience you should know 3 to 5 people who will be willing to give you a great review. I want to cover several items regarding references that many simply neglect to consider.

1. Notify the individuals, you will list as references, that you are doing so.

I have made many reference check calls where the reference was taken aback by my request on a job applicant. The reference did not realize that their friend/colleague was even looking for a job. In turn the information provided or given is given cautiously and much less detailed because they were not aware if they should be talking to me. This can be easily avoided by discussing with the people you will list that you are searching for a new position. As you apply and receive calls for interviews you should let your references know that they may receive a call from XYZ company.

2. Don’t list family members as references.

Family members do not make good references. Several reasons for this, but most of all their credibility and bias is going to be questioned automatically. Why would they say anything bad? You should use past supervisors, business colleagues, coworkers, clients, patients, etc.

3. Stop putting “References Available Upon Request” on your resume or CV.

You WILL have to provide references. No question, it will happen. Simply save a step and put them with your CV/resume when you apply for a position. They probably will not be checked until you have met the employer for a face-to-face interview. However, providing references up front shows you are organized, serious, and committed to potentially working for the company. Never get caught up scrabbling at the last minute to get your references together. I like to look at the references of dentist I interview to see if I know any of them. Often times I or the practice I am working for does know them, and this peaks additional interest from the prospective employer.

4. Do not just list the Names and Numbers of references.

A good reference list contains at least 3 people, but 5 would be great. When listing the contacts you should put their name, title, company, your relationship to them, address (at least city & state), phone number, fax number, email, and website. Reference checks these days can take many forms. Make it as easy as possible for your potential employer to check them.

5. If you want your confidentiality to be kept, do not list co-workers as references.

Simple and obvious enough, you would think. People talk, and if you absolutely need to keep the job you have currently, then you don’t need to take the chance of compromising your confidentiality. As well, you should note in cover letters that you are confidentially seeking new employment so prospective employers know that they should not contact your current employer.

6. Don’t be offended because you are asked for references.

Several experienced doctors that I have worked with have asked me, “Why do I need references? I have been practicing for 20+ years, and my reputation is impeccable.” That may be so, and if you have nothing to worry about then providing references that back up your reputation and career success should not be a problem.

References are vital to a smooth and successful interview process. Employers have to make sure you are the absolute right fit, and this is a good way to reassure them that you are the right choice.

Always remember that references should be chosen carefully, and they should say things that match up to what you have already told the potential employer about yourself. If in doubt about what a reference may say about you DO NOT use them.

Back to News

News/Insights

For Job Seekers

Interview Tips for Dentists

Jan 24, 2024

Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced Dentist, it's always a good idea to polish up your interview skills before jumping into your job search. Take a few moments ...

Job Search

Beyond the Salary – Intangible Benefits for Dentists to Consider

Sep 27, 2021

When looking at changing practices, financial compensation is often one of the first things to be compared. It's easy and quantifiable. As you evaluate and compare differen...

Job Search

Reasons to Use a Recruiter in a Candidate-Driven Market

Sep 1, 2021

We'll be the first to admit it's currently a hot employment market, with demand for qualified associates at unprecedented levels all across the country. If you're a dentist lo...

Job Search

Two New Factors to Consider in Your Job Search

Aug 20, 2021

The employment market for dentists has never been better. That's good. But there are some things to consider that have been less important in previous years. The package, f...

Job Search

Maybe It’s Time to Go – 7 Signs to Start Job Hunting

May 28, 2020

Every job has its good days and bad, but what are the signs you need to be polishing up your CV? At ETS, we work with practices and candidates every day, and these are the thi...

Job Search

Job Seekers: It’s Time to Strengthen Your Personal Brand

May 19, 2020

Dental practices across the country are going to take some time to rebound in the wake of the COVID-19 shutdowns. This will surely delay or slow down the hiring of Associates,...

Job Search

Is a Personal Brand Website Right for Me?

Mar 9, 2020

There was a time that you literally had to be a computer scientist to create a website promoting your expertise. With the rise of Wix, Squarespace, Wordpress, and other platfo...

Job Search

Looking for a New Job While Keeping Your Current Job

Feb 6, 2020

Nearly everyone agrees that the best time to look for a job is when you are gainfully employed. It can be tricky, but here are a few hints. 1) Don’t share with co-workers ...

Job Search

6 Good Reasons to Look for a New Opportunity

Jan 27, 2020

At some point, virtually every dental associate finds themselves wondering if it’s time to seek greener professional pastures. Setting aside the justifiable trigger issues s...

Job Search

Reasons Why 2020 May be the Best Time to Find a New Job

Dec 23, 2019

As each year comes to a close, it is natural to take inventory of the things we’ve accomplished over the past twelve months. At the same time, we get to look forward to what...

Fresh hiring market news and perspectives.
ETS is your greatest resource.