There are so many things to take care of during a job search...a lot of 'to-do' items. A job-seeker has to get their resume put together; sharpen their interviewing skills; research companies and jobs; get their references in order; keep their network informed of their search; get in touch with recruiters - the list goes on and on.
Out of all of these, let's talk about the references list. When talking with clients, time and again I hear that people are uncomfortable with asking supervisors or co-workers to give a reference. Understandably, it's a difficult thing to do, especially if you don't want these people to know you're looking for a job. Plus, it's never easy to be the one asking for help. Guess what? It doesn't have to be stressful anymore! If you start creating your references list long before you leave the job, you've eliminated both those factors during a time when there will be plenty of other reasons to feel stress. So, how do we do that?
If you listen to the weekly radio show or have read my articles, you know that I'm a big fan of LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/). One of the best features of this site is the ability to give and receive endorsements. LinkedIn is such a commonly used resource that asking your colleagues, vendors and clients to recommend you won’t raise any eyebrows while on the job; it’s just part of the networking process. As a matter of fact, getting endorsements gives your current (and future) employers an opportunity to see how others value you and your work. When asking for a recommendation, ask to have specific skills/characteristics/projects mentioned in the feedback. For example: “Dear Sue, Would you mind taking a moment to endorse me? I’m finding this to be a great networking tool and your recommendation would add a lot of value to my profile. I’m hoping that you can mention the project we worked on to implement the new database that saved ABC Company $17K in the first year. What a coup! Thanks so much in advance! Of course, you'll see my endorsement for you in the next few minutes!”
Can you see how having this type of feedback on your profile can add tremendous value to your job search? You've just created your online references page. Employers and recruiters are quick to do an online search of candidates well before they are ever invited in for an interview. What they find in their search sets that ever-important first impression. If you haven't done this already, I challenge you to reach out to your network through LinkedIn and start building your online references list. It's one item that can be crossed off your job search list.
And remember - the best way to get an endorsement is to give one first!
I'd love to hear your feedback on how this worked for you!
Monday, November 17, 2008
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