This Is How to Get Your Next Job

#14: Don’t Ignore or Fabricate References

Just because you shared a cubicle wall with Joe Maplestone back in 2007 and went to a cookout at his house once doesn’t mean he’ll be a cheerleader for you and your career. It’s been so long since you worked together, he may not even remember you. Who knows, he may not have been that keen on you in the first place.

And just because Buffy Woodbutton agreed to be your reference back when you were looking for your first job out of college doesn’t mean she’d be your reference 10 years later.

References need tending to. You’re asking people to vouch for you. If you want someone to speak highly of you, that person needs to feel good about you. You can’t ignore prospective references for years and then expect ...