Are you a mid to senior level manager who is struggling to find a new job? If so, you may have considered using your friends as references. While this can be a great way to bolster your resume and increase your chances of getting hired, it can also be a tricky situation to navigate. Here are some common problems you might encounter and some tips on how to use your friend as a reference effectively.
Problem #1: Your friend doesn’t have any experience in your industry.
Solution: Focus on their transferable skills.
If your friend doesn’t work in the same industry as you, don’t worry! You can still use them as a reference. Instead of focusing on their industry-specific knowledge, talk about their transferable skills. For example, if you’re applying for a management position, you can talk about how your friend has demonstrated leadership and communication skills in their own job.
Problem #2: You’re not sure if your friend would give you a good reference.
Solution: Be upfront and ask them.
Before you list your friend as a reference, make sure they’re comfortable with it. Ask them if they feel comfortable giving you a positive reference, and if there’s anything specific they would like you to highlight. If they’re not comfortable being your reference, it’s better to find someone else who is.
Problem #3: You’re worried that your friend’s relationship with you might overshadow your qualifications.
Solution: Be clear about your qualifications and ask your friend to focus on them.
When you list your friend as a reference, make sure you provide them with a clear picture of your qualifications and experience. Ask them to focus on your skills and accomplishments rather than your personal relationship. This will help potential employers see you as a qualified candidate rather than just someone with connections.
Problem #4: You’re not sure how to list your friend as a reference on your resume.
Solution: Include their name and contact information in your references section.
When you list your references on your resume, make sure to include your friend’s name, job title (if applicable), and contact information. You can also include a brief note about your relationship to them, such as “longtime friend and colleague.” This will help potential employers understand your relationship to your reference and why you chose to include them.
Using your friends as references can be a great way to bolster your job search, but it’s important to do it right. By focusing on transferable skills, being upfront with your friend, highlighting your qualifications, and including their information in your references section, you can use your friend as a reference effectively and increase your chances of landing your dream job.
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Problem #5: You’re not sure when to use your friend as a reference.
Solution: Use them strategically.
It’s important to use your friend as a reference strategically. You don’t want to list them as a reference for every job you apply to, as this can come across as unprofessional. Instead, choose jobs that you’re particularly interested in or that you think your friend can speak to particularly well. This will make your application stand out and increase your chances of getting an interview.
Problem #6: You’re not sure how to thank your friend for being a reference.
Solution: Show your appreciation.
If your friend has agreed to be your reference, it’s important to show your appreciation. After you’ve landed the job (or even if you don’t get it), send them a thank-you note or small gift to show your gratitude. This will not only help maintain your friendship but also increase the likelihood that they’ll be willing to be your reference in the future.
Problem #7: You’re worried that using your friend as a reference will make you look desperate.
Solution: Frame it as a professional networking opportunity.
Using your friend as a reference doesn’t have to come across as desperate. Instead, frame it as a professional networking opportunity. Explain that you’re looking to expand your network and that you think they would be a great reference based on their experience and expertise. This will help show potential employers that you’re proactive and professional in your job search.
Conclusion
using your friend as a reference can be a great way to bolster your job search, but it’s important to do it right. By focusing on transferable skills, being upfront with your friend, highlighting your qualifications, using them strategically, showing your appreciation, and framing it as a professional networking opportunity, you can use your friend as a reference effectively and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember, it’s important to maintain a professional and respectful relationship with your friend throughout the process to ensure that they continue to be a valuable reference for you in the future.
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