reference check help - references by people who've departed?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some detailed steps and considerations for handling your reference check situation:

Steps to Handle Reference Checks with Departed Colleagues

1. Provide Context for Your References:

   • When you submit the references of the two colleagues who have departed, clearly explain why you chose them. Emphasize that they worked closely with you and were leaders on key deals listed on your resume. Highlight their ability to speak to your work performance effectively.

2. Address the Seniority Concern:

   • If the recruiter specifically asks for senior members (MD-level), you can mention that while these references are not MDs, they were directly involved in your work and can provide detailed insights into your performance. This can sometimes be more valuable than a higher-level reference who may not have worked as closely with you.

3. Preemptively Explain the Situation:

   • You might want to preemptively explain why you are not using current colleagues as references. You can mention that you haven't informed your current team about your departure due to the upcoming bonus payout. This shows transparency and helps the recruiter understand your situation.

4. Be Prepared for Pushback:

   • If the recruiter insists on having references from current senior members, be prepared to explain your reasoning again. You can also suggest that they contact your former colleagues first and then decide if they still need additional references.

5. Maintain Professionalism:

   • Throughout the process, maintain a professional tone and ensure that your reasons are clearly communicated. This will help in avoiding any perception of being "fishy."

Key Points to Communicate

• Close Working Relationship: Emphasize that the references you provided worked closely with you and can give a detailed account of your contributions and performance.
• Recent Departure: Mention that these colleagues have only recently left the firm, so their insights are still relevant and up-to-date.
• Bonus Consideration: Explain that you haven't informed current colleagues about your departure due to the upcoming bonus payout, which is a common concern in the industry.

Example Explanation to Recruiter

"Thank you for your understanding regarding my references. The two individuals I have listed worked very closely with me on key deals and can provide detailed insights into my performance. They have recently left the firm, which is why I am providing their personal contact information. I have not informed my current team about my departure due to an upcoming bonus payout, and I hope this context helps in understanding my choice of references. If you need further clarification or additional references, please let me know."

By following these steps and clearly communicating your reasons, you can effectively manage the reference check process while maintaining your professional integrity and protecting your bonus payout.

Sources: Urgent: PE Offer after being fired, Being Fired and being upfront about it, Burned Out - Quitting w/o an offer?, Private Equity Reference Check, We need to let you go