Don’t know who to ask for professional references
I graduated from college a few years ago and had a number of people to pull from as references at the time. Unfortunately for a couple of years after graduating, I was unemployed or working in low-wage temporary/gig jobs. I recently applied and interviewed for a position. Now they are asking for three professional references before they can make a decision. I don’t have any. I’m still underemployed, but I have worked in a more professional role for the last year. However, I can’t rely on that as a reference, because I don’t want them to know I’m seeking other opportunities. I don’t know who else to ask. I don’t want my references to be too old. The couple of gig jobs I had were very temporary and may even undermine my candidacy. Even with the old references, I haven’t kept in touch. I’ve been too embarrassed about how life has turned out for me. I’m trying to change that, but then there are obstacles like this one. Even if I could muster one current professional reference, where do I get three? What do I do?
Today is the perfect day to reach back out in gratitude to old friends, colleagues. Don’t let the excuse of time stop you, I’m betting they’ll be glad to hear from you!
Share a quick note of to wish them well, see how they’re doing and share a memory of why you appreciate them. Even better, do that and share a LinkedIn recommendation for THEM, first!
You’ll be amazed at how much fun it is to rock your re-connections and share a smile.
You can also volunteer for something meaningful Today to help others , I’d bet your local church or soup kitchen would Welcome an extra set of hands.
This is a mindset shift, appreciating your value and contributions. Stop letting your BS (belief system) stop you from growing into that next role.
Write out your gratitude list right now. Start by writing a list of your top 20 people who can help you. Don’t prejudge their response. Send them a thank you note, a recommendation. Offer a 15 minute virtual coffee/zoom chat to catch up. Ask if their family is ok, what they are grateful for and what THEY wish for in the new year.
Share your excitement about your new direction with this potential role and ask them for one reason why they enjoyed working with you, Ask why they think you’d be successful at it.
After they say it, ask if they’d be willing to share that as a LinkedIn recommendation and a reference for your new job.
I’d bet you can get 3-5 kind references out of 20!!! What do you think?
When you fill your heart with gratitude you don’t leave room for self-doubt.
We are rooting for you!!!
Ps: If you need more help I created a mini course to talk you through these steps in greater detail, including how to use free tools to set up the virtual coffees so you eliminate that awkward feeling. No more “what time is good for you?” back and forth. Easy peasy to I get it done so you cam feel better and rock that job application TODAY. Here’s the link: www (dot) rockonsuccess (dot com) /connections
I have been in your situation and sometimes it's best to bite the bullit and simply reach out to people from the past. Have the courage to send a nice email detailing your career plans and politely ask them if they would help you out and be a reference. You would be surprised how many will agree and they are often flattered that you thought of them. My references include former coworkers, clients and volunteer organization leaders.
Help me understand more about your gig jobs, why would they undermine your candidacy?
I'm in a similar situation, not knowing who to use for professional references. I've been at the same job since 2006 and haven't kept in touch with coworkers from previous employment. There's only one person here I can use as a reference and I can get someone at the Y to be my second but the 3rd...no clue.
Have you done any volunteer work?
It's been years for that too.
Hmmm...what about a mentor? Are you involved in any professional groups? Any teachers/trainers/professors?
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