Monday, June 06, 2005
Reference Roulette
Today I actually went out there and did a little job hunting. I'm not looking very high so I visited mostly retail outlets and a few movie theaters. After all, that's the experience I have. I had a thought while I was filling out applications. This is the first "serious" job hunt I've been on in a decade. That's ten years, Billy! Frankly, even with my adequate resume the application process is humbling and frustrating.
The worst section of any application is the "reference" section. Every form is different and it's totally worthless. First I have to try and think of my friend's addresses, something I don't necessarily have handy. But some forms specify not to list "friends." Who else would I list, enemies? Or just random co-workers whom I did not befriend? I've been filling these things out for twelve years and I've never, ever heard back from someone that I listed as a reference, so what's the point? I have a feeling it's just a test to make sure the applicant isn't some angry loner who lives under a bridge.
I only live near a bridge, although I do enjoy shopping under it...
The worst section of any application is the "reference" section. Every form is different and it's totally worthless. First I have to try and think of my friend's addresses, something I don't necessarily have handy. But some forms specify not to list "friends." Who else would I list, enemies? Or just random co-workers whom I did not befriend? I've been filling these things out for twelve years and I've never, ever heard back from someone that I listed as a reference, so what's the point? I have a feeling it's just a test to make sure the applicant isn't some angry loner who lives under a bridge.
I only live near a bridge, although I do enjoy shopping under it...
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Doesn't "references" usually mean professional references? Like former bosses, etc. Maybe you could list a professor at Albany? Although they are probably not around during the summer. I don't think listing friends is very useful...
It depends on the form. Some specify not to list friends, others allow anyone you've known more than a year who isn't a relative. One form actually specified "no relatives, friends, or employers." Who does that leave?
Like I said, it's moot because no one is ever going to check them. I should stop sweating it and just write down Heywood Jablome.
コメントがあります？ Type something, please. It's less work for me.Like I said, it's moot because no one is ever going to check them. I should stop sweating it and just write down Heywood Jablome.
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