Why You Need to Contact Your References During a Job Application Process

When applying for sales jobs in Chicago, it’s essential to not only prepare your resume and cover letter but also to contact your references. This step is often overlooked, but it can significantly improve your chances of landing the job.

So in this post-interview guide, we’ll explore why you need to contact your references during the job application process and provide tips on how to do it effectively.

Do Hiring Managers Really Contact Your References?

Yes, hiring managers do contact your references.

In fact, references are a critical part of the recruitment process. They provide potential employers with validation that you are telling the truth about your skills, experience, and achievements. References can also give employers confidence that they are offering the job to the right person.

Most employers check references as part of their hiring process. This is because references can provide valuable insights into a candidate’s work ethic, communication skills, and ability to work well with others. Hiring managers use this information to assess whether a candidate is a good fit for the role and the company culture.

It’s important to note that the reference check is often one of the final steps in the hiring process, typically occurring after the initial screening, interviews, and background checks. This means that if your references speak highly of you, it can be the deciding factor in whether you receive a job offer.

Why You Should Contact Them, Too (and What You Need to Tell Them)

Contacting your references is essential because it shows that you are proactive and organized. It also allows you to ensure that your references are prepared to speak positively about you and your qualifications.

Here are some key points to discuss with your references:

1. Job Details

Share the job description and requirements with your references so they can understand the position and be prepared to discuss your qualifications. This includes the specific skills, experience, and responsibilities required for the role. By providing this information, you can ensure that your references are able to highlight how you are a strong fit for the job.

2. Your Achievements

Highlight your achievements and the skills you have developed in your previous roles. This will help your references to provide specific examples of your strengths, such as your ability to exceed sales targets, your excellent customer service skills, or your expertise in a particular software or industry. By arming your references with this information, you can ensure that they can speak confidently and persuasively about your qualifications.

3. Your Goals

Discuss your career goals and how this job aligns with your aspirations. This will help your references understand your motivations and enthusiasm for the role, which can be a powerful selling point for the hiring manager. By sharing your long-term career objectives, your references can also speak to your commitment and potential for growth within the company.

4. Timing

Confirm with your references the best time to contact them and ensure they are available to speak with the hiring manager. This shows that you are considerate of their time and that you have taken the necessary steps to ensure a smooth reference check process.

Taking the time to contact your references and provide them with the necessary information can ensure that they are well-prepared to speak positively about you and your qualifications. This can give you a significant advantage over other candidates and increase your chances of landing the job.

Let’s Remember

Contacting your references is a crucial step in the sales job interview process. It shows that you are professional, organized, and proactive. By following these sales job post-interview tips, you can ensure that your references are prepared to speak positively about you and your qualifications, increasing your chances of landing the job.

Remember, references are a critical part of the recruitment process, and contacting them can make a significant difference in your job search.

Get Ready for a Successful Sales Career!

Sales Recruiters Chicago is here to guide and help you find a great sales job in Chicago. We are a sales recruitment specialist firm that connects top companies with exceptional talents. Submit your resume here or apply for open jobs to get started. 

Read more Post-Interview Tips that will help you make a lasting impression.