Submitted by eedvard1 on
in
Forums
Dear all,
[b]BLUF: [/b]
I am concerned about using my present manager as reference because he is not identifying behaviors.
What are the potential implications not using my present manager as a reference?
[b]Backgound:[/b]
I am currently in the process of applying for a new job. I have found some very interesting jobs which I've applied for. In the meantime, while awaiting replies from these companies, I revisited my list of references.
My concern is about when I am asked to provide references to a recruiter. Here is my plan:
I will provide two references. One of the references will be my present manager.
Now, let me share my concern. I heard, by accident, my manager give reference for another employee when a recruiter called a couple of months ago. Since I am working on becoming a MT-manager, I became worried hearing the conversation.
My manager was only positive and gave only replies very similar to: "Oh yeah, he doing a terrific job", ""Yes, I would absolutely hire him because he is really nice", "He has developed a lot during his time here" and "He is a quick learner".
My manager never got down to behaviors or not even considered sharing observations about areas to "take a look at".
[b]Questions:[/b]
Based on the background provided, my two questions are:
1. What are the potential implications not using my present manager a reference?
2. Does anyone have some recommendations for me on how to handle this situation?
Thank you in advance. I am very much looking forward to hear your views and recommendations.
Best regards
Erik
[b]Note:[/b]
I have prepared for interviewing through the MT interviewing series. I am focusing on providing behaviors and being candid about my strengths and weaknesses.
[b] Additional background data:[/b]
I have 4 references to choose among, including my present manager. They all know that they are on my list (mutual agreement) and I have told them I will let them know when I use them (latest the same day I have given their name to a recruiter).
Manager not identifying behaviors. Not use him as reference?
I would not worry about this too much and keep your manager as a reference. If the company you are going to is interested in drilling down to behaviours with references then they will be expert enough to ask for specifics. More questions will be raised about why your present manager is not a reference.
When you use your manager as a reference for a specific job, brief him on the job you are going for. Then be open about positive behaviours you would like to be raised.
Chris
Manager not identifying behaviors. Not use him as reference?
Chris,
Thank you for your reply.
I will stick to my initial plan and include my current manager as reference.
I completely agree that more questions will probably be raised if I do not include my present manager as reference. At least, that is how I would react myself if I had received a job application where the present manager was not given as reference.
I have not thought about briefing my manager about the positive behaviours I would like him to share some light on. With careful preparation [form my side] I can certainly breif him on that.
Thank you very much for your suggestion.
Best regards,
Erik
Manager not identifying behaviors. Not use him as reference?
Erik, you will find the MT interview series useful if you are looking for a job. It is full of good ideas and helped me change job recently.
Chris
Manager not identifying behaviors. Not use him as reference?
Erik:
Include your boss.
What: you're thinking of NOT allowing people to call your boss because his reference, although positive, won't be in the format you think it [i]should [/i]be in?
Who's to say that the hiring manager will even be looking for behavioral information?
You're overthinking or overmanaging this. Take the positive reference. Be thankful for it.
-Hugh
Manager not identifying behaviors. Not use him as reference?
Hi Hugh,
Thank you for you reply.
You are very right. I am making this harder for me without good reasons.
I have told my references that I am very thankful.
I have promised to let them know the final decision from each interview.
I have already let this go *smile*
Best regards,
Erik
Manager not identifying behaviors. Not use him as reference?
[quote="HMac"]Erik:
Include your boss.
What: you're thinking of NOT allowing people to call your boss because his reference, although positive, won't be in the format you think it [i]should [/i]be in?
Who's to say that the hiring manager will even be looking for behavioral information?
You're overthinking or overmanaging this. Take the positive reference. Be thankful for it.
-Hugh[/quote]
+1
Take the reference and be glad for it.
Manager not identifying behaviors. Not use him as reference?
US41,
I told my manager that I was thankful. He smiled.
Thank you!
BR
Erik