In this post, I want to share a little trick that I learned recently. I got into hiring and outsourcing maybe 4 or 5 years ago and I have to say there’s a big learning curve with hiring the right people and hopefully it’s a subject that I’ll get into more on this blog.
So I put out a job posting for web designers recently and just like every time, most of the applicants send a cover letter or email, their resume, and portfolio. One of the applicants included some positive reference letters from not one, but two past employers.
I know this sounds so simple, but in all the years that I’ve been in business, I’ve never seen or heard of anyone doing that. This simple little trick can make you stand out from other applicants when you are looking for freelance or full time work. Here are some ideas on how to use this to your advantage:
1. Whenever you lose a job (under favorable conditions) request a signed letter of recommendation from your boss. You can photocopy this and send it out with your resume and cover letter.
2. Have them include their contact info in case your new prospective employer wants to call them.
3. If you can keep accumulating these letters, then great. I would guess that sending the 2 most recent ones would work just fine. You probably don’t want to send too many.
Glowing recommendations from previous employers can really cast you in a glowing light when you are applying for new jobs.
About Brian Liang
It’s always good to do something that makes you memorable.
That’s why I openly talk about my past, what I went through to get to where I am today, and how happy I am now.
It’s also why others see me as a source of inspiration. 🙂
Very true, most people are doing the same thing as everyone else when applying for jobs or looking for work.