Is The Reference Letter Still Used?

While verbal references are the norm, the question of whether a reference letter is still valid is something that job searchers often ask me.

Many people get written reference letters from former employers, former college professors, a religious leader or other people of authority, the truth is that you'll probably find that verbal reference checks are what most employers are looking for.

If you have reference letters, keep them in case they are requested by a potential hiring manager but also be prepared to provide them with names and contact details of people who they can actually speak with on the phone regarding a reference check.

In other words, follow the suggestions you saw on the reference checks page.

Again, you'll most likely find that most employers want to actually speak with your references on the phone - or even by email - to get specific questions answered, questions that tend not to be covered on a standard reference letter.

If you are new to a country, are switching careers or are fresh out of school, character references such as the ones provided through a reference letter can often be helpful so keep them on file if you have them.

Again though, just be prepared when a potential hiring manager asks for people that they can contact personally regarding a reference check.

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