References That Matter when Seeking Leadership Roles

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References that Matter when Seeking Leadership Roles

Who is a person a future employer will take seriously?

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Building a strong list of references is as important as constructing an informative resume or having a stellar interview. Upon embarking on your first or tenth leadership position, your chosen references need to be able to provide meaningful information regarding your performance and character. Any organization worth working for will know that the practice of reference checking is critical work and will invest time in the process. Therefore, ask yourself the following ten questions when you select a reference:

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Does the reference know they are one of your references?

Does the person know you are looking for a new opportunity?

Does the person believe you have potential for the positions you are seeking?

Has the person observed you on the job?

Has the person ever given you feedback?

Have you been able to give feedback to the person?

Does the reference know the significant work you have accomplished?

Does the reference know where you have failed as well as where you have thrived?

Does the reference know the knowledge and skills you need to develop?

Does the reference know how others feel about working with you and for you?

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Beware of (1) the mentor who has never seen you on the job, (2) the family member, priest, or rabbi who knows your character but has never seen you at work, (3) someone from your past who has not seen you in the last seven years, (4) a teacher or college professor who has never seen you outside of a classroom, (5) a fellow volunteer whose knowledge of you is limited to the volunteer work that is not related to your career. These are all potentially wonderful character references, but they cannot speak to your performance in the position.

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If your references cannot check off at least 9 of the questions noted above, you may want to reconsider listing the person as a reference.

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Good luck with the job search!