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Q: I'm concerned about using my supervisor as a reference because I don't trust him. There is no reason he should give me a bad reference, but he has demonstrated spiteful and petty behavior toward others in the past. I have the option of using his former boss as my primary reference, who was the chair of the department for 6 out of the 7 years I have held my position. Is this going to raise a concern with a potential employer? The bigger question is: Why do employers still rely on the word of total strangers to decide whether they are going to hire someone they have interviewed?
A: It is common for people who are still working to not use their current supervisor for a referral as they want their job search to be confidential. You can always choose your previous boss, co-workers or staff that reported to you. If you ask your boss' former boss, I advise you to tell him that you are not using your current boss because this is a confidential search.
References are a final part of an employer's hiring decision. The purpose of reference checks is:
It is important to choose people who know you and can speak objectively about your skills, strengths and qualities. Managers, peers and subordinates can be your best references. Customers and vendors are also good choices and community, organization or business leaders. It is typical to be asked for three references. Always ask a person if they would act as a potential reference before you provide any name to an employer. Also, have a conversation with the reference to provide and clarify other information they may need to give a strong reference. At the time when you submit your references to an employer, you need to call your references to give them a heads-up. You will also want to describe the prospective position and how you think you can add value and benefit the organization. Ask your reference if they would call you after they are contacted by the prospective employer to provide some feedback on topics covered or issues raised. Always, send your reference a thank-you note.
Andrea Wolf is vice president of career management at Right Management Consultants, a career transition and human resources consulting company.
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