How to Ask a Client for a Job Reference
These days many people are becoming consultants for their fields. With no one in a supervisory position to provide you with a job reference, you'll need to rely on your clients to vouch for you. Whether you're thinking about becoming a consultant or just moving to another company, it's good idea to know how to ask a client for a job reference.
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Instructions
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Foster positive relationships with your clients. Show a sincere interest in your client's business. Asking questions will not only help you do your job more effectively but also provide insight into how your work fits the needs of the company.
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Check with your supervisor (if you have one) to make sure it's not against company policy to ask a client directly for a reference. If this is the case, advise her that you would like any positive feedback from the client on your behalf to be included in your personnel file. Follow up with the client, letting him know of your request.
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Encourage feedback and ask that a client put it in writing when he expresses pleasure with a project. Suggest that he include details as to how your work met the specifications set forth at the beginning of the project, how you managed to meet budget requirements and any other information pertinent to the project's successful completion. Obtain his permission to use this document as a job reference when vying for future projects.
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Develop a personal connection with your client or your contact person. Try to be friendly without being overly familiar. Knowing the person behind the job not only makes it easier to work together, but also helps you stand out from the crowd when it comes time to ask for a job reference.
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Think outside the box for job references. Letters of recommendation may be the standard, but check a client if she would be comfortable with you adding letters of praise or positive satisfaction surveys to your portfolio. It saves the client the time of writing a new letter and serves the same purpose.
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Tips & Warnings
Explain why you are asking for a reference and assure the client that you will use it with discretion.
Keep in mind that clients may be hesitant to provide a job reference if they think you will use it as a way to take business away from your current employer or another business.
