If you are an experienced job seeker, you may remember a day when employers asked for written references. Maybe you even have some glowing references from former bosses on glossy paper. Do yourself a favor and do not bring them out at the end of the interview unless you want to be met with awkward looks. It’s unlikely that the recruiter will take the time to read your stack of papers and most recognize that you could fabricate the letters.

These days, most employers will personally call references or they will use a web based service to solicit references. When I was a healthcare recruiter, we utilized the site Skill Survey because it maintained some anonymity of the references and also gave the employer the ability to check computer IP numbers to ensure that the job seeker was not trying to pull a fast one.

Lastly, whatever you do, do not falsify references. It shockingly happens fairly regularly and sleuthy recruiters love nothing more than uncovering the truth. If you are concerned about the feedback a former would share about you— don’t ask them to be a reference!

For a really rich discussion, check out the original link to the post on LinkedIn. Over 98 comments and counting….