It seems like we're almost at home base when we are asked for references after rounds of interviewing. But don't assume that a job offer is coming even if your references are committed to singing your praises.
Most of the reference lists I see are just that - lists of names with contact information. How can anyone tell from this why someone with a lofty title at an employer they cannot connect with a company on your resume would be qualified to talk about your fitness for a position? Perhaps she left a shared employer for a new job. She may be the person who can best articulate how you would be a great match but she could easily be overlooked or devalued as irrelevant.
This is why it's important to give your references context. This can be done as simply as "My supervisor in sales at XYZ for four years." It's short, sweet, and provides insight as to the reference's perspective on your qualifications. It's less likely that a person would be disregarded if the relationship is seen as important, and hiring managers tend to use references to verify qualifying information.
This is one of those examples of a small consideration that can make a big difference in the final steps of securing that great job.
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