You may wish to help your references by reviewing the following information to use as a guideline to assist in verbal and written responses:

• How do you know me?
• How long have you known me?
• What specific results or accomplishments have I provided for the company?
• Under what circumstances did my leave?
• Would you rehire me?
• How did I get along with people?
• What was the quality and quantity of my work performance?
• What are my strengths and weaknesses?
• Do you know anything that would disqualify me from performing the job in question?
• Is there any other information you can share?
• Is there any other person in the company who can discuss my work performance?

Your references must have a copy of your resume, letter of reference, and the guideline questions on their desks when the reference checker calls.

Immediately upon completion of an interview that has gone well, you may want to notify your references that you believe that the company is considering making you an offer and the reference-checking calls may be coming. Highlight what was discussed in the interview, tell your references briefly about the company and the person who interviewed you, what job you are pursuing, and what qualifications from your background you highlighted.