So, should you attach recommendation letters from current or former colleagues or managers to your resume? The answer is, “No,” and here are three reasons why.
- The objective of applying for a job is to pique the employer’s interest. Share enough information to let them know that you meet or exceed the qualifications requirements for your job of interest. You achieve this via a well-structured resume that highlights your career accomplishments, and a well-written cover letter that tells your career story of the part you played in using your experience to help your current and former employers achieve success. Don’t overwhelm them with information. Leave them wanting to know just a little bit more about you and your professional experience. That way you will have something left to discuss during your interview.
- Everyone should build a career portfolio that gives more detail about who they are professionally. Your career portfolio can consist of many sections. You can start out with an introductory section that consists of a copy of your resume and a letter of introduction telling them how honored and excited you are to be one of their candidates. The next section can consist of tangible examples of your work. This further proves that you have what it takes to do the job successfully. Then, you can close out your career portfolio with those letters of recommendation which are the first hand account of people who know your work product and your work ethic as a professional in your field of expertise.
- Finally, use those letters of recommendation to fill the gap when one of your references is not available to respond to your potential employer’s reference inquiry once you’ve been identified as their candidate of choice. This can push you right across the finish line.
Remember to always think strategically during each stage of the job search process. Consider the role of your actions in the best possible favorable outcome in your favor.
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Until next time…
Career Search Success to You. Go Get Your New Job.
