The Power of the reference letter

There is constant movement at the executive level.  Much more than there used to be as Boards allow for a much shorter shelf life for executives when corporate results do not hit desired targets.  More global competition in all industries and advances in technology are the most common reasons for results to fall short of targets.  When senior executives are shown the door, the end result is usually that other good people will find themselves in transition as well, when new management comes in and chooses to bring in their own people.

It is very common for people to obtain the promise to be a reference from customers, colleagues, managers and past managers, but in addition to securing this, I highly recommend obtaining a reference letter as well as it is extremely powerful.

Be sure to insist on a reference letter as part of a separation agreement.

This is a subject that can sometimes be touchy or outright refused by some organizations who do not want to put anything in writing that could possibly contradict any wording from the employee’s separation agreement.  Be persistent and continue to ask for it, as in many cases the terminated employee has the ability to secure one prior to signing their release agreement.

The reference letter is very powerful to leave with a potential employer, especially after a first interview. It immediately addresses the elephant in the room and it leaves the potential employer with a much better state of confidence in your abilities and your reputation.

Off the record letters also work well or credible testimonials on social media will also work but they are still not as good as reference letter.

A key customer is often very willing to oblige as well, as many now realize that the shoe could be on the other foot as well where they can utilize you as well if they are ever in a similar situation.

Don't settle for just the telephone reference.  Insist on the letter as well.

Farewell,

Mike