References

Often, in many aspects of life, we are asked for references. Who should you include in your business reference list?

When you own your own business, you are usually your own boss. So, for many, it might be a bit harder to identify professional references. Corporate employees have colleagues and clients and managers and Human Resources departments. This is not the same for small business owners. We need to reach out to a greater group in our community.

Clients are a perfect source for references. They have used your product or service and can attest, first hand, as to its utility and quality. They have also seen your ability to manage, to direct, and to grow, all qualities that can help bolster a professional reference for you and your business. Just be sure to ask the right client and ensure they are comfortable with providing a positive reference for you.

If you have worked at a previous corporate position, do not be afraid to reach back to that life and seek a colleague who can speak well about your performance. Even if that person has moved beyond the role they knew you in, do not be afraid to remind them of your working relationship and which qualities would be ideal to highlight in a review. A past history of good work performances shows a positive trend and reflects your ability to excel in different work environments.

Another area you should seek references from is community and board work you have been involved with over the years. The ability to work as a team, to work where you are not paid, and to rally around a specific cause reflects your determination to give back to your community and devote personal time to volunteer for the better good. Passion without pay is an excellent place to find qualities that will serve you well in your business and professional life. This added dimension will allow others to see you in a different, yet also positive, light.

Seeking references is something we do for many aspects of our life. It is no different in the business world and your own business needs to have its following that will provide references upon request. Keep your list of references fresh and ‘on point’, you never know when they will be needed.

Be well.