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Post by annabella on Apr 20, 2016 21:51:36 GMT
I'm using one reference from my current job and one reference from my last job. I need a third reference but I feel bad giving a name of someone I used previously as a reference but haven't spoken to in 8 years. Should I call that person up to say hi or just continue to use her as a reference without speaking to her? Not sure what the right protocol is, what would you do? I know she still works there because I called to check the number but wasn't sure if I should state what I want on her voicemail, that seemed kind of cold to get a message like that out of that blue, would have preferred to have a conversation to catch up.
Also which job would you pick, same duties.
Job 1
one block from home (my present job is 5 blocks away but they are moving to a building one block away from me)
good work life balance which is very important to me
a large company (The past 4 years I've worked for small companies and I miss having a bigger pool of people to be friends with)
no gym in building and not very interesting to walk outside
no travel
open seating (meaning they have rows of long desks with 5 computers at each desk. I'd have someone in front of me and beside me- OMG! I do have a couple friends presently in companies that do this, one sitting right next to her boss, but I don't know if I can adjust to this)
my manager seemed cold and my friend who works for the company said that was her impression of her too (they don't work together)
Job 2
20 min walk from home, no option to take the bus or train during inclement weather
longer hours, occasional tasks to do from home on the weekends, occasional 7am meetings
satellite office of 18 people, very quiet office but they use their conference space for a lot of meetings from outside people
gym in building and near park to walk through
occasional travel which I like
have my own office
better pay
found out the last person was fired which always makes me nervous about going into an environment like that even though all the ladies I met (didn't see any men) were very nice
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Post by originalvanillabean on Apr 20, 2016 21:58:11 GMT
2 for office, pay and travel reasons
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gsquaredmom
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,107
Jun 26, 2014 17:43:22 GMT
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Post by gsquaredmom on Apr 20, 2016 21:58:47 GMT
Always check with your references prior to using them. Also, try to find a more recent one. 8 years may be a red flag in interviewers' minds.
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eastcoastpea
Prolific Pea
Posts: 9,252
Jun 27, 2014 13:05:28 GMT
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Post by eastcoastpea on Apr 20, 2016 22:06:06 GMT
Job 2. I wouldn't want to share a table with other people as my work space.
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Post by digirlwiz on Apr 20, 2016 22:06:53 GMT
Please call the former reference and let her know you would like to use her as a reference. As a former nursing director (promoted to AVP 2 years ago and am very happy!) - I am often asked for references by nurses- and I always appreciate the heads up to expect a call. My company asks staff to sign a release for us to give a reference so I like to be able to let staff know that requirement.
Of the 2 choices-I would pick job #2- the walk may be an issue- but I drive to work so I am not in a position to give advice on walking in bad weather. I would not like working in a row of people- having my own space to work would be important. Job #1 has things that seem important to you- like a larger staff and work life balance. A cold boss would be a deal breaker for me-depending on the amount of time you would be spending with her.
Best of luck-- and keep us posted on your decision!!
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Post by bc2ca on Apr 20, 2016 22:08:25 GMT
Always check with your references prior to using them. Also, try to find a more recent one. 8 years may be a red flag in interviewers' minds.  Always give a potential reference warning. You want to give them a quick catch up on where you are and what you are doing so you are fresh in their mind if a reference check is done. You don't want them saying something like "I haven't heard from or talked to Annabelle in 8 years." I would look for someone more recent unless you have a very specific reason for using this reference. Job 2 sounds better to me except for working with a small group. |
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Post by digirlwiz on Apr 20, 2016 22:10:09 GMT
I am ok with an 'older' reference- as long as I have some current/recent as well. If you stayed in a job for a while- it would not be a red flag to me to have someone you worked with 8 years ago. I am in my 14th year at this company- and if a reference was needed from a current and former employer- my references would be pretty old!
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Post by Delta Dawn on Apr 20, 2016 23:38:22 GMT
I'm using one reference from my current job and one reference from my last job. I need a third reference but I feel bad giving a name of someone I used previously as a reference but haven't spoken to in 8 years. Should I call that person up to say hi or just continue to use her as a reference without speaking to her? Not sure what the right protocol is, what would you do? I know she still works there because I called to check the number but wasn't sure if I should state what I want on her voicemail, that seemed kind of cold to get a message like that out of that blue, would have preferred to have a conversation to catch up. Also which job would you pick, same duties. Job 1 one block from home (my present job is 5 blocks away but they are moving to a building one block away from me) good work life balance which is very important to me a large company (The past 4 years I've worked for small companies and I miss having a bigger pool of people to be friends with) no gym in building and not very interesting to walk outside no travel open seating (meaning they have rows of long desks with 5 computers at each desk. I'd have someone in front of me and beside me- OMG! I do have a couple friends presently in companies that do this, one sitting right next to her boss, but I don't know if I can adjust to this) my manager seemed cold and my friend who works for the company said that was her impression of her too (they don't work together) Job 2 20 min walk from home, no option to take the bus or train during inclement weather longer hours, occasional tasks to do from home on the weekends, occasional 7am meetings satellite office of 18 people, very quiet office but they use their conference space for a lot of meetings from outside people gym in building and near park to walk through occasional travel which I like have my own office better pay found out the last person was fired which always makes me nervous about going into an environment like that even though all the ladies I met (didn't see any men) were very nice This one guy I did a temp job for (2 or 3x) wrote the agency stating what an asset I was to the department and ministry and he cc'ed me on it. I wanted to use him for a reference 5 years later and he said it was too long. He didn't know what I had been doing NOW and couldn't give me a recent reference. I have the letter in my file upstairs he wrote...and I didn't know about the letter until it came to the house surprised. (I called to thank him for the letter and asked him if I could use him for a reference in the future and he said of course). Five years later and nope. Talk to the reference first. |
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Post by mymindseyedpea on Apr 20, 2016 23:59:48 GMT
If you feel like calling your 3rd reference for more reason than that then I would do so and play catch up.
If not then I personally wouldn't even put her as the 3rd.
Some companies tell me ( if they even call any of them ) that they only call the first 2.
The first job you mentioned I feel you may never be satisfied with.
The second job I feel you will find more growth in.
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eleezybeth
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 2,784
Jun 28, 2014 20:42:01 GMT
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Post by eleezybeth on Apr 21, 2016 0:13:42 GMT
More is more. More autonomy, more money, more travel, more exercise vs. more sleep, more aggravation.
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Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:42:09 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Apr 21, 2016 0:16:13 GMT
These days I'm not in the professional world anymore. I Nanny here and there for doctor $$.. That being said, all of my references know they might be contacted. I'm with 1 'agency' who actually has their recorded references on there, so it's easier........ but I have other people that they could speak to live. YES, always give that person a heads-up, even if it's a call from someone you haven't spoken to in years. If you've left off on a good note and she respected your work, then she wouldn't mind! I'd leave a message on her v-mail, for sure, just asking her, "Hey, I hope you don't mind. I want to put you down as a reference. I'm job searching right now.. Hope that's not a problem. Hope all is well, etc................" Weird thing is that I'm in contact with nearly every person I helped care for their child with! We're still in touch...... Good luck with the job choices. #1 sounded better to me, just b/c it sounds like the safe choice. But, hey, maybe it's time to step out of the comfort zone and go for more $$, travel, etc?  Good luck. |
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Post by workingclassdog on Apr 21, 2016 0:50:45 GMT
Tough decision... I love to travel as well, that would make me want #2...
I am curious Annabelle, what do you do for a living.. I have always been curious and just never asked (If you posted before I missed it)
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Post by BeckyTech on Apr 21, 2016 17:45:16 GMT
What does your gut say?
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Post by mrssmith on Apr 21, 2016 20:32:07 GMT
Do you need to have references from 3 different jobs? At this point, I do, but in the past I've had 2 people from the same institution (CEO of the nonprofit, as well as one of the VPs of clinical services) that I interacted with differently. Always always always let references know you're applying and ask if you can use them as a reference.
I say option 1 except the group desk scenario sounds like a nightmare. I sit in a cube farm which is bad enough. However, I don't want to travel for work, and I am the main child caretaker in my family, so 7 am meetings would be challenging.
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Post by kellybelly77 on Apr 21, 2016 20:32:56 GMT
What a tough decision. I don't do 7am meetings so that would almost eliminate that job! But I love having my own office too! So I have no advice on which job to take. But I do think you should use a newer reference or at least let her know. I got called out of the blue one day for a friend and I was a little thrown off since I wasn't expecting it.
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Post by krc11 on Apr 21, 2016 21:01:25 GMT
#1 sounds like a nightmare to me for the office situation and boss, plus added less money, no exercise options. I'd hate to take that job if it was the only option I had. And it sounds like the only pluses for you sounds like "potential" friends you might make and perceived work-life balance.
#2 - I could deal with early or extra work. but then I'm used to that. I would love an office again but it doesn't really sound like you'd have to have that due to the fewer people. It might be a little lonely (which sounds like heaven to me) but the pluses of traveling which you love, exercise options and more money would definitely make it my choice. No job is going to be perfect.
Always always always check with your references if it's been a while.
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Post by AN on Apr 21, 2016 21:08:49 GMT
How much more money as a %?
"Occasional" tasks to do from home and early meetings can easily turn into more than you can tolerate, given that work/life balance (and possibly separation?) is important to you. Imagine there are 50% more at-home tasks and early meetings than you're currently imagining - would that amount make you turn the job down?
The open office setting is not my favorite, but since a matter of consideration for you is making friends and having lots of people to choose from, I think that can be dealt with. The 18-person office doesn't sound like it will meet your needs there.
#1 seems to meet all your main needs, even if not everything is ideal. #2 seems to be missing a few things you specifically identified as important to you.
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Post by Susie_Homemaker on Apr 21, 2016 22:28:26 GMT
No one has mentioned the 20 minute walk every day. That wouldn't work for me. I don't mind walking but what about the weather being a factor- terrible heat and humidity, a downpour rainstorm, snow and ice. That would be a huge factor for me.
I think #1 suits you better even with the office being open concept.
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luvnlifelady
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,428 
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Post by luvnlifelady on Apr 22, 2016 1:14:04 GMT
I use references from many moons ago. I did connect with her on FB not too long ago but I was using her name before that. She was cool with it. I hope you get the job.
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Post by AN on Apr 22, 2016 1:41:39 GMT
No one has mentioned the 20 minute walk every day. That wouldn't work for me. I don't mind walking but what about the weather being a factor- terrible heat and humidity, a downpour rainstorm, snow and ice. That would be a huge factor for me. I think #1 suits you better even with the office being open concept. Not to mention that if you're expected to be available for tasks from home, there's a good chance you are lugging a laptop with you on a regular basis. |
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Post by CarolT on Apr 22, 2016 2:11:21 GMT
Definitely call your reference and get her ok to use her. I'm often used as a reference, and I appreciate getting a call or email asking about using me as a reference - it's also a chance to talk about the sorts of things the potential employer is looking for do I can emphasize those things. I don't mind a call out of the blue from a former employee or colleague - these are people with whom I have a professional, not social relationship.
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Post by scrapmaven on Apr 22, 2016 2:40:33 GMT
Despite the years I would call your former reference and ask permission to use her. It's just a nice thing to do.
As for which job to choose, go w/your gut instinct. If you were to share a table w/others would they be people that you like? Would you be able to focus w/the noise level?
How do you think you'll fare in inclement weather when you have to walk? Will it be too difficult? I like that you'd have your own office, but will you be happy?
There are drawbacks to both, but I'm sure you'll make the best choice for yourself.
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Deleted
Posts: 0
Aug 18, 2025 21:42:09 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Apr 22, 2016 12:06:12 GMT
For the references, use three people who are current even though they might be from the same work situation. Don't use someone who is well past, hasn't kept up with you and certainly, don't let it be a surprise to them when they get a call! You also don't want the new position to use the number you supply only to discover it has been reassigned to someone else.
Personally I couldn't handle a 20 minute (one way) walk in ALL weather. But your weather may be milder than mine. For me that would be 100+ on the way home, lightening/hail storms, maybe snow, high winds, freezing temps...... no. It is one thing to out for a 40 minute walk on purpose for exercise. But a totally different thing to walk that far as your only transportation option. And arrive looking professional/business ready.
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Post by *KAS* on Apr 22, 2016 12:23:19 GMT
What is the difference in pay? (Percentage, not dollars!)
I personally would hate a 20 minute walk each way daily, because I'm usually carrying a computer, lunch and gym clothes...and I wouldn't like the walk in bad weather for sure and without a backup public transportation option, I would be less inclined towards #2.
Shared work space sucks, but you seem to like the social aspect of work, so you may adapt to it ok.
If the pay difference is significant that could sway me. But otherwise #1 seems like it could be a better fit for you.
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Post by whopea on Apr 22, 2016 13:09:45 GMT
Even though #2 may be more appealing, I think you should weight the advantages / disadvantages. You say that work / life balance is important to you and it doesn't sound like #2 gives you that. Travel for work can take more 'life' time away outside of work hours and the 20 minute walk in all kinds of weather might become a drag. But then, you have to decide what is most important to you.
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Post by annabella on Apr 22, 2016 13:39:19 GMT
I had both interviews on the same day and one told me I pretty much had the job and they weren't interviewing anyone else and responded to my thank you email. The other said they were interviewing multiple people and didn't respond to my thank you email. I just wanted to prepare myself if they both come back as job offers. I am leaning towards one even though I HATE the open floor plan, but I keep telling myself that that's what many people do, perhaps I'll be more productive and not be on this board. lol My co-worker has a brother that works at either Google or Facebook in CA and said that no one has an assigned desk. When he shows up for work he unlocks his keyboard from a drawer and finds a desk to sit at for the day. I've always walked to work, sometimes up to an hour, but those routes always had the option of taking the bus or train. That's why I found my fitbit useless because I easily knocked out my steps in my commute. Thanks for all the perspective, I'm just taking it in.
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Anita
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,891
Location: Kansas City -ish
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Post by Anita on Apr 22, 2016 17:07:43 GMT
Good luck in whatever you decide, although we will miss you if your new job takes you away from here.  |
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Post by annabella on Apr 22, 2016 21:04:23 GMT
I was just offered Job 1 but they told me they won't match my retirement contributions until after I've been there a year because I'm not coming from a non-profit. What's up with that? They're only matching 10% but still I think that's a long time to wait and not sure why I'm being punished based on where I'm coming from. How can I contact Job 2 and let them know I have an offer from another company and would like to know their timeline on a decision?
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Post by **GypsyGirl** on Jun 5, 2020 22:08:32 GMT
Interesting first post, on a 4 year old thread of someone who hasn't posted in several months.  |
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Post by freecharlie on Jun 5, 2020 22:29:01 GMT
Interesting first post, on a 4 year old thread of someone who hasn't posted in several months. shit. I just read the whole damn thing too. |
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Always give a potential reference warning. You want to give them a quick catch up on where you are and what you are doing so you are fresh in their mind if a reference check is done. You don't want them saying something like "I haven't heard from or talked to Annabelle in 8 years."
