Job applications-when do references burn out?

Parent Cafe
1

<p>D is in a rather lengthy job/ internship search, has applied for things, come close, but not hired, yet. She is becoming reluctant to put down the same references over and over, as she is afraid of wearing out their good will. But not using the references certainly limits her job search. </p>

<p>She is employed in restaurant jobs, so not penniless, yet her spirits seem to be flagging regarding a more professional track. </p>

<p>My advice is to send the references a nice holiday thank you gift and card, and keep using them. At this point she is tiring of the parental voice, so thought I’d see if there are other voices with a fresh perspective.</p>

2

<p>Usually one doesn’t provide references until one is very close to being offered the job, so they don’t get called too often.</p>

<p>But in the meantime the holiday gift and card or, at least, a thank you phone call may keep her references from burning out.</p>

3

<p>I’ve had people actually call my references very rarely, and if they did it was only after they had essentially already made the decision to hire me. Are you sure they are getting called at all? I stopped supplying references until I was asked for them later on in the hiring process… I think my current job ended up never asking. The job before that wasn’t interested until I was already in the process of being hired “pending” the background and references check, but they still didn’t call even after I provided them.</p>

4

<p>Would it be possible for your D to ask her references for a written letter of recommendation that she would be able to use over and over again? I know I am in the minority, but it was a suggestion of my grandmother that I ask for letters anytime I leave a position. No kidding I have a file folder filled with them, going back to my first job as cashier at Woolworth’s (I was 14, and it is handwritten on Woolworth’s stationery). I would cherry pick based on the job I was applying for, and sometimes the hirer would still call, but that is in the minority, in my experience.</p>

5

<p>I have been a reference for quite a few people and rarely called or been asked to do anything until the person is just about hired, mainly confirming that the person as as wonderful as interviewed and as stated on resume. I have never minded being listed or used as a reference of people I feel very positive about.</p>

<p>It is nice to remember them with a holiday card, updating them and letting them know they are appreciated that that the job hunt for a position in the field is ongoing (who knows if that may spark a lead). A small token holiday gift is not necessary but would be OK.</p>

6

<p>I second getting written references - I had my daughter do this with her summer volunteer job and her boss was happy to oblige.</p>

7

<p>Interesting about the reference letter to keep on file. She states that often it is internships, and those offering the position send out a detailed sheet to fill out on applicants. </p>

<p>I had no clue that references were checked so late in the game. Thanks!</p>