Q:  I have a feeling one of my references is not giving me a good evaluation.  In my last set of interviews, the prospective employer seemed very enthusiastic about hiring me.  But, after conducting reference checks, he refused to return my phone calls. What can I do to correct this?  Is there any strategy for making a bad reference good?

A:  This is a very difficult question because so many tough and ambiguous feelings come into play in the reference process.  I am not sure why you have this feeling, but, let’s explore some practical options.

You are making the assumption that the problem reference is one you provided.  This may not be the case. Rather, your interviewers may be contacting prior supervisors and colleagues whom you did not select to be part of your reference team.  That being the potential case, make a list of past supervisors, colleagues and peers whom you suspect may give either negative or ambiguous information, and be brave about contacting them to simply ask if they have been approached by any of your potential employers.  If they have, ask if are any issues they would like to discuss directly with you.  You might be surprised about what you learn from these conversations because some people may actually offer you good feedback while others will play ignorant as to what you’re asking or simply be non-committal.

You can follow a similar process with references you provided.  Contact each one, and ask for honest feedback.  Be honest about your sense that your career search is being stalled by negative references. In both follow-up cases, jot down and consider the validity of any negative feedback you receive.

In addition to these investigations, prepare a list of professional development/personal development plans or actions you have recently taken to address areas of growth.  Utilize this information as you see fit with your references, during your interviews or both to create a much more positive context for discussion.  The specific efforts you have made to grow professionally and personally give you a positive context for reversing, or at least contesting, any commentary about past shortcomings.

Finally, consider identifying two or three recent references who can speak to your professional growth and who are openly supportive of your abilities.  Have candid conversations with these potential references to get a sense for how they can enhance your profile and presentation.  Consider updating your reference list to add a few more upbeat, supportive-yet-honest reference persons.

By going through these steps, you are certain to minimize the impact of past mistakes.  You are also demonstrating in real time that you are willing to learn and grow as you progress.

Contact Karen Alphonse at Karena@execSearches.com or visit ExecSearches.com for more information about our career coaching services.

ExecSearches.com is a job board for nonprofit job seekers interested in fundraising, management and executive nonprofit jobs.

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