Securing Professional References
References from previous managers are gold
Securing references from previous managers is critical to your job search and interview process. Savvy hiring managers will request references with contact information to speak with past managers directly.
Expect the question: Who were your last five bosses, and how will they each rate your performance on a 1-10 scale when we talk to them?1
I recommend you create a reference document with the following information for your five last managers (for experienced professionals) or previous managers for early-in career professionals (these can include internships).
Manager Name
Title, Company
Personal email (this is my preference to reduce corporate spam filters)
Mobile phone number
Context: document a paragraph to describe the key points of this role and any other context that will help the hiring manager ask questions to your previous manager. Be factual and provide context for scenarios where you were fired or laid off if appropriate.
Expected performance rating = x (on a scale of 1-10)
My list of references also includes previous peers and direct reports. This can provide additional insights for hiring managers to assess leadership style and how effective you are collaborating with your peers.