Understanding Why You Need Recommenders

Even if a company says it won't verify employment information, people sometimes say more than their HR departments would like them to. That's one reason why having good recommenders is still important.

In addition, the kind of recommendations you need to secure a job vary, depending on the position you are seeking and your qualifications for the job.

Are you a recent graduate, with little or no professional experience? In that case, you'll need to offset your lack of relevant work experience with evidence that you've performed well in other structured, goal-oriented settings – for example, in your college work and volunteer activities. You'll want one or more recommenders who can attest to your performance in those circumstances and your potential for growth.

Are you an experienced professional who is looking to move up to a management position? In that case, you'll get a boost from recommenders who understand what management requires and who can give a credible opinion about your readiness to take on more responsibility.

Are you returning to the workplace after taking time off to raise a family, or to pursue other interests? You'll benefit from a recommender who can talk about how you showed focus and organizational skill even when you weren't formally employed.

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