Sending a resume - references question

jreed · October 22, 2012

I am looking to apply for a job that requests (3) previous supervisors as references. I have only had two jobs in my field and I can provide a reference from the first. Other than that my other jobs have been short term jobs when I was a kid and i have lost contact with those people. I have plenty of other references from my current job but they arent supervisors. Will not being able to list enough supervisors be a detriment to me getting the job?

Myherobobhope · October 22, 2012

Maybe?

Just list your previous supervisor first, and then 2 other strong references. (not necessarily from your current job).

Some companies just want names, some will actually call them.

Just fill out the form to the best of your ability... if you lose out on the job, blame that as the problem :-)

smartpnoi · October 22, 2012

Also make sure the people you are going to use as reference, give them a heads up and contact them that you're using them as a reference.

Aimee · October 23, 2012

always fill out the entire application, even if it is to fill out a box to say you don't have anything to provide...couple of years ago I was participating in a panel interview and my boss tossed a guy out before he even started because he didn't bother to fill out the application (which had been mailed to him well in advance). Attention to detail and honesty go a long way.

march11934 · October 23, 2012

You're resume should clue them in as to the number of supervisors or managers you would be able to provide. The most important things you can show are that you really know your trade and very willing to earn that position. A potential manager wants to feel he or she is not going to regret having hired you rather than another candidate. If you don't have enough of a specific reference ask what other options they would be willing to accept. It's probably an HR mandate. But a manager should be able to role over it if you win them over. Good luck with it!