As lawyers, we’re often so consumed with our cases, clients, and the occasional overly complicated footnote that we sometimes neglect one of the most essential components of a successful job search: references. Sure, you’ve probably updated your resume (or, at least, thought about it), dusted off that writing sample from 2014, and refreshed your LinkedIn profile (after Googling yourself first—right?). But if you’re not considering your references seriously, you might be selling yourself short.
References aren’t just a “last step” in the hiring process—they’re a critical part of your professional brand. They can seal the deal or leave you wondering why the call-back never came. Let’s break this down in a way that even the busiest litigator can appreciate: the Who, What, When, Where, and How of maximizing the value of references in your job search.
Who Should Be a Reference?
Think of colleagues who actually know your work.
You wouldn’t call a random opposing counsel to vouch for you in court (tempting as it may be to hear them squirm), so don’t rely on friends or family to serve as your references. Employers want substance, not sentimental assurances. Ideal references include:
- Former supervisors
- Trusted colleagues
- Professors or mentors (especially if they’re still alive in the minds of your interviewers)
- Judges or other influential professionals you’ve worked for
Choose people who can articulate your strengths and, more importantly, back those claims with specifics. As much as your Aunt Mildred loves to gush about your “leadership potential,” hiring committees will find anecdotes about that big trial you won far more compelling.
What Should References Focus On?
Help your references help you.
No one knows your career highlights better than you—so don’t leave your references guessing. Share your updated resume, gently remind them of projects you collaborated on, and casually drop the phrase, “Remember that time we hit that impossible deadline?” in your conversations.
The goal here is simple: arm your references with the kind of details that make their praise sound less like a Hallmark card and more like an endorsement that screams, “Hire them yesterday!”
When Should You Gather Your References?
Early—like holiday shopping early.
Many lawyers treat reference gathering like a closing argument—something to tackle at the 11th hour. Bad idea. Start the process early in your job search.
Reconnecting with your references not only gives you time to rekindle those relationships but may also yield valuable intel. (“Oh, by the way, I heard XYZ Company is looking for a new GC…”) Procrastination won’t win you friends—or job offers.
Where Should You List References?
Hint: Not on your resume.
A polished resume should focus on you, not the names of your biggest cheerleaders. Instead, create a separate “References” document. This keeps your resume concise, protects your references from unsolicited calls, and allows you to tailor your reference list to specific opportunities.
Remember, your references should remain behind the curtain until it’s their time to shine—usually when you’ve reached the final stages of the hiring process.
How Do You Work Effectively With References?
Be professional—and ask nicely.
Lawyers are known for many things, but psychic abilities aren’t one of them. Don’t assume your old boss is sitting by the phone, eagerly waiting to sing your praises. Reach out, explain your job search, and ask for their support.
And once your search concludes—especially if their input played a role—thank them. A thoughtful email or note goes a long way in maintaining goodwill (and ensures they’ll say yes when you need them again).
The Takeaway
Your references are more than just names on a list; they’re an integral part of your professional arsenal. Whether you’re climbing the ladder or leaping to a new role, keeping the “Who, What, When, Where, and How” in mind will position you as the complete package.
So, take the time to nurture those relationships, prepare your references well, and let them be the secret weapon that gives you an edge in your job search. After all, the legal profession is as much about relationships as it is about billable hours—and who couldn’t use a little extra leverage in their corner?
Good luck, and remember: when it comes to references, the jury is always in your favor—if you plan ahead.
