How to Get a Current Reference When You Want to Keep Your Job Search Confidential?

One of the key steps that must be done when getting a new role is to get a reference check. Your new employer needs to talk with people who can vouch for your work experience and work ethic, ensuring that you are who you say you are on your resume and in your interview.

But who can be your referee and how can you get one from your current role? Here are our three key steps;

Communicate that you wish to be discrete

It can be tricky to find someone who can speak on your behalf, especially if your job search is confidential. Throughout the hiring process, ensure that you explain to your recruiter or the hiring manager that your application is confidential and that you would like to be discrete while going through the process.

Don’t burn bridges

When moving through your career, make sure you have good relationships with the people you work with. Whilst you may not get along with everyone, you do need to remain respectful and friendly, and maintain those contacts even after you move onto your next role. These past relationships can be used when you need a reference, even if they are not a direct manager. Also, there is a possibility that these contacts move to another company in the future, potentially one that you wish to be a part of. So, keeping these relationships positive and friendly will help you throughout your career journey.

Bite the bullet

In most job selections, a current reference is required. In many cases this final reference will be required at the end of the application process, meaning that if it is positive, then you are very likely to be offered the new role. In this scenario, you have two options;

1. You speak with your direct manager, tell them that a new opportunity has become available and that you are keen to put your foot forward and would like to have them as a referee.
2. Think about an alternative manager, whom you may have worked with in your current organisation who you feel may be able to support you in this instance and can vouch for your work experience

No matter which option you choose, when you get to this stage of the job application process and need to reach out to your current organisation, your manager and others will find out that you are considering a move in your career.  Although this can be an unsettling time for many, being honest and open with your current employer can be a positive experience, allowing you to move through the process with less angst. It will also allow your current employer to have more time to think about how they may move forward with regards to filling your current position.

What happens if you let them know that you are looking for a new role and then you don’t get the job?

Without a doubt, this could lead to a very tough situation. However, all is not lost. Yes, you will be disappointed and be left feeling a little awkward with your manager, however it will open the conversation with them to talk about why you wish to move on. This conversation could lead to other opportunities within your existing business or give you alternative viewpoints to think about as you progress in your career.

If you are thinking about getting a new job and wish to have a discussion about how to tackle the job application process, reach out to our team today – we are happy to talk with you about your options and what the job market is like in your industry. You can also read our tips on How to resign from your job and three things you can do to start your job search to give you the kick start you need to changing roles.