Hi, this is Stephanie Maas.

And today I want to talk to you about references.

This day and age, everybody still asks for references, but legally, no one can say squat about anything.

So I think it's time that instead of taking a reactive response to reference checking, we take a proactive one.

And here's what I suggest.

First and foremost, everybody has a reference.

Everybody has somebody that they can call on professionally to speak on their behalf, even in the middle of the utmost confidential search.

So here's what I recommend.

Instead of waiting for HR to have you fill out an application and them call and ask some standardized questions.

What were the dates of employment?

Yes.

Check.

Are they eligible for rehire?

Yes.

Check.

Tell your references.

Hey, reference.

I'm actually confidentially, so please be discreet, interviewing with XYZ Bank.

Tom Smith is who I've been interviewing with.

Would you please take 10 or 15 minutes, here's his number, here's his email, and reach out directly to him and speak on my behalf.

Here are three things that have me really excited about this opportunity, and here are two or three ways that I think based on what they're looking for, I could really make a difference or make an impact.

Would you please call?

Proactively on my behalf and share that information with Tom.

Boom.

What a difference maker.

Again, if your reference calls Tom on his own, he can say anything he wants and they can have a real conversation on your behalf.

Isn't that better than verifying dates of employment?

I think so.