BLT #19 |Getting Great References

Great references are tricky: we know them when we see them, but it can be difficult to pinpoint what exactly makes them great. In this BLT, we break down some simple strategies to land a great reference - without all the awkwardness that can often come with the request.

WE BELIEVE:

Don't make the reference hard work.

We'll be blunt: most people are busy. And great people are even busier. That's why when you're asking for a reference from someone, your goal is to make it as easy as possible for them to say yes. Here are a few ways to do it:

1. Be specific | When asking for a reference, be clear about what it will be used for and mention a few details about why you're asking this individual specifically. You can include details about work ("Given that we worked on two large product launches together, your feedback would be very helpful in my search for a new PM role."), details about team dynamics ("As my manager for 2 years, I'd appreciate a reference about how it was to have me on the team."), or any other context to set the stage.
2. Consider your options | Remember to think broadly about who you could get a great reference from. It might be someone you worked for, someone you worked with, or someone who worked for you. Keeping a broad set of references helps paint a more complete picture of you and your skills.
3. Offer up help | Even the most well-intended folks can let a reference request fall through the cracks. That's why we like to add a P.S. to the end of our reference requests that offers up a draft version for them to edit/approve. It might sound like this:
4. "p.s. I know you probably have a ton going on right now, so if it's helpful, I'd be happy to put together a first draft of a reference for you to edit and approve as you see fit. Let me know what's easiest for you, and thanks again!"

SOMETHING WE LOVE:

A reference is like a review.

When was the last time you bought something online without looking at the reviews? Think about references the same way: they can be powerful ways to quickly show what it's like to work with you.

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YOU SHOULD TRY:

Decide your next 3 reference requests.

Asking for references during a relevant moment or time is much more effective than asking for one out of the blue. To prepare, think about 3 upcoming milestones that would be well suited to request a reference. Here are a few ideas to get your mind moving:

• The next time you wrap up a big project, consider asking a few of your peers about their experience working together.
• After your annual performance review, ask your manager if you can use some of their feedback in a reference format.
• If you've just reached a milestone at work (such as an anniversary), ask folks for a few words about working with you.
• If you've recently reconnected with an old colleague, consider saying: "I'm so glad to be connected again, it was great to work with you over those years. I'm realizing I missed the boat in asking for a reference back then; would you be open to sharing a short recommendation now that I could add to my LinkedIn?"

We know that asking for a reference can feel awkward, but the more you align it to the natural rhythms of the business, the more it begins to feel like a regular part of work.

Good luck!

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