Feature: 'The Overwhelming, Can't Be Overstated, and Undeniable Importance of References'

In today's main Gamasutra feature, recruiting expert Marc Mencher explains the importance of job references, even for the video game industry, discussing the value of preparing and selecting the best, including who to ask, who not to ask, and what HR managers really look for in references. In the introduction to his piece, part of a continuing series on job-related issues for Gamasutra, Mencher comments of this sometimes overlooked area: "You were so "on" during the interview. Everything just clicked. You've got this job sewn up, no doubt. Everything looks great, they just need to check references. Just check the references. As you spent hours creating the perfect resume, code samples, or demo reel, and as you lovingly edited and tweaked each aspect of your presentation, did you think about your references? Were they even a blip on your radar screen? Treating references as an afterthought can be dangerous and may very well destroy your well-laid out job hunting strategy. Indeed, few people realize the importance of maintaining solid references. But references can make or break a job offer and this stage of the interviewing process should not find you scrambling for names, email addresses, and phone numbers, giving you no chance to talk to your references before your potential employer makes contact. When your potential employer or your recruiter calls for references, you should be able to immediately provide a list of at least three people. People who you have spoken with and prepared to be your references." You can now read the full Gamasutra feature on the subject (no registration required, please feel free to link to the article from external websites).