The JobSync Blog
Getting References When You’re Unemployed Long-term
September 27, 2011
With growing numbers of the unemployed taking a longer time to find a new position, along comes another problem to complicate their job search: What to do about references when you’ve been out of work for a long time.
Recently, MSNBC.com discussed this issue, a problem that makes life even more uneasy for dejected jobseekers. However, now is not the time to feel sorry for yourself or awkward about the issue. Many recruiters and hiring managers are aware of the problem of long-term unemployment and how this undermines job hunters securing recent and reliable references who can attest to the quality of your work and character. Essentially, such candidates with doubts about their references should consider one of the following courses of action:
1. Reconnect with past references and update them on your professional status: While this may sound humbling, you may be surprised how many old references will be supportive if you can assure them that your skills and qualifications are still robust and relevant.
2. Use subordinates or even customers from prior companies as references: It may seem unusual to cast such a wide net, but as long as such associates can provide a compelling reference, this is far more preferable to non-professional individuals trying to provide a professional sketch of you.
3. Consider getting a temp job/volunteer position: Aside from the obvious benefit of giving one experience and filling a hole in one’s resume, obtaining a part-time position or doing volunteer work will expand your pool of possible references.
So go ahead and give these options a shot. We know they’ll work (and we have someone who can vouch for us).
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