References

[Java]

I'm currently looking for contract work and keep being asked to send references through before going to interview.

Should these not be taken once the potential client has said they are happy to offer me a contract? I don't want anyone who has agreed to provide a reference for me being contacted too often.

[Peter Clayton]

There are several reasons that some companies ask for references before they meet you. (I) Those that say no probably don't have enough good references. (This is not true but some companies believe it) (2) Impatience. If they offer you a position, they want to get all the paperwork sorted quickly. Either way, make it clear to them they do not have your permission to take up references until after they have offered you a position.

Peter Clayton
APRC

[zara_blackdog]

Also, agents ask for references so they have a name so they can introduce their services to the client, all they need to know is did you work there when you said you did. The do not need to know this once you have the contract.

Agents are just fishing if they ask for this up front.

[UKFF Mod]

An interesting point there from zara_blackdog - I know that this is definitely a view that many contractors have. Do the experts believe that references are abused, and what is the come back if they are?