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Do you think it would be inappropriate if I use myself as a reference for a job?

Poll - Total Votes: 8

Yes, good idea

Don't do it

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You can only vote on one answer.

Last week, I was asked by an HR rep to send in my 5 references and have them do a survey regarding me, my work ethic , skills etc.

One reference has fell through, telling me that she hasn't had a chance to look at it.

It's been 1 week. That's more than enough time.
I have already asked/ reminded her to do it .

** I do not have anyone else that I can ask for a reference.

Do you think it'd be okay if I use myself and vouch for my own skills, abilities, work ethic etc?

Or do you think that would automatically disqualify me?

***EDIT****
I am NOT trying to be discrete
and pretend to be someone else. I will use my name and contact info, and speak in first person about myself and why I think I'm right for the job

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5 references for someone of only 30 years sounds a bit extreme.
If a person had changed jobs too many times, that might look like they are not a good bet.
I suppose you could include refs from previous bosses, tutors, and maybe a character reference from some pillar of the community who has known you all your life. Maybe even one from a coworker about how it was to work with you in a team, or similar.
That would probably work.

Oster1 · M

You know, that may be a very unique angle to use.......

It may just be the different factor. I know, I would be impressed.

Really, that’s a great question and may land a job!🤔

assemblingaknob · 26-30, F

Nice! It's hard to say how the employer would react to it, but to me it means you are very interested in the job. Tell us how it goes!! Good luck 🍀

Oster1 · M

I really think this is an excellent idea and I also feel now, that it was meant to be!

Why would anyone think it was a bad choice after all the best thing to say in an interview is why I’m so good for your company!😊

View 1 more replies »

Oster1 · M

I really have a good feeling about this. Remember, you may have been directed to do this. I love your idea! Good luck, Nikki!😊🤗🌹@iamnikki

iamnikki · 31-35, F

@Oster1 thank you

Oster1 · M

@iamnikki I’m so impressed in what you are doing recently to enhance your life. You go girl!!!😊🌹🌸

HootyTheNightOwl

If they find out down the road, then they will fire you.

iamnikki · 31-35, F

@HootyTheNightOwl please read the above edit. My goal is NOT to lie nor be discrete and pretend to be someone else.

HootyTheNightOwl

@iamnikki It might be worth giving them a call and asking if this would be acceptable in advance. If you explain everything as you have to us, I don't see why they would have a problem - though 5 references does seem a little extreme to me.

iamnikki · 31-35, F

@HootyTheNightOwl I'm gonna just do it and let them determine if they'll accept it or not

NerdyPotato · M

Not handing in what they asked for is going to look bad, but writing the 5th one yourself probably looks better than only giving them 4. It shows you're willing to put in the effort and you can list creative problem solving as one of your skills.

iamnikki · 31-35, F

@NerdyPotato no I did give them 5 references. The system reflects that and it also reflects that my reference did not complete the survey. So I will really but number 6. Thank you, I will list problem solving

nowic2 · 61-69, M

That would be seen as self promotion
& bias, not a reference. Would not go well.

Why you think you're right for the job should be what you resume is all about with you using relevant work examples.

Iwillwait · M

Resist the temptation.

View 1 more replies »

Iwillwait · M

@iamnikki I get it, and I totally understand you wanting to be able to be a reference, but that ultimately is a conflict of interest (if you can believe it) lol! It is. The 5 references need to be anyone but you. That is where the validity and gravity of their testimony about you and your work performance gains traction with the Hiring Manager.

iamnikki · 31-35, F

@Iwillwait but I have submitted the 5 references, just as they asked. The system even reflects that I did and that they didn't complete the reference, so I'll be number 6...still a bad idea?

Iwillwait · M

@iamnikki no, if you the 5 they asked for, there's no issue being a final last word, so to speak.

DDonde · 31-35, M

I would say not to do that.

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