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Job hunting but no references?


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Hey everyone! So I've decided to look for a new job for various reasons, mostly feeling burnt out where I am but also looking to move closer to the city. I have a phone interview lined up and all is well so far. My problem is what to do when they look for references. 

 

I did work with an NP during the first couple years of my job (she and I worked with the same SP) and we became close friends. She got let go, but we still keep in touch so I plan on asking her if she would mind being a reference. Aside from her, I have NO IDEA who else I could have as a reference. I don't want anyone I work with to know that I'm looking and I don't have any other professional contacts outside of our office other than that NP. I started this job right out of school 5 years ago. At that time I used my preceptors, teachers, and the lead at the Red Cross where I volunteered as references. Fast forward to now, I'm sure all of my preceptors and teachers have forgotten about me amidst all of the students they see. The leader at the Red Cross retired and I have no idea where she is now. 

 

Anyone else that has been in my situation who has any ideas or advice? I feel like being in the same job for 5 years after school is probably a plus in the eyes of recruiters, but my professional circle is so small because of it. 

 

Thanks!

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Use the one reference you have explaining that has been your only job and you don't want your current employer to know you are looking....it is a common thing and shouldn't raise any flags. You can also offer personal references as to your character and work ethic....non clinical folks.

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I was feeling good about the advice above, but got an email from them that said :We always strive to hire caregivers who will place our patients at the center of all they do.   As part of that commitment, we conduct reference checks prior to making any job offers, utilizing an online system.  If you are being considered further, you will receive an email asking you to provide the names and email addresses of five or more reference contacts, from your previous employment or education.  At least two of your references must be supervisors or managers to whom you have reported.  The remainder may be co-workers, preceptors, instructors or advisors, but not personal references.  Please begin to prepare your references now so that you can provide the information within 24 hours of the request.   If there is any reason why you cannot complete this within 24 hours, or you change your email address, contact me right away.

 

I have no idea what I'm going to do........

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I wouldn't stress out about it too much. Contact old workplaces, old colleagues, etc, who would remember you the most and in a positive sense. Let them know the circumstances and that you thought of them first. They'll likely take it as a compliment. Then ask them if they'd be willing to be a reference.

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I rapid fire emailed people from the past and managed to get enough references, so it worked out. Even though the email had said that they check references prior to any job offers, I had a phone interview that seemed to go really well and she said that it would be completely fine to have my current manager and they wouldn't contact them unless they decide to give a job offer, which would be contingent on the reference. 

 

Feeling so much better! Thanks everyone!

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