Loud Thinking July 17, 2014 at 01:20PM
Before Accepting a Job, Reference-Check Your Future Boss
When you’re interviewing for a job, doing your research and asking the right questions can inform you about the company culture — but often won’t reveal much about the specific person you’ll be working under. So it’s important to reference-check your future boss. Potential employers aren’t shy to ask about your background, because they want to make sure you’re the right fit. Why shouldn’t you do the same? After you’ve gotten the offer, ask your potential manager for references from his or her colleagues and direct reports, or ask other interviewers what it’s like to work with that person. Social media can also show if he or she is in any clubs, associations, or alumni groups where you may have shared connections.
Adapted by HBR from “ Reference-Check Your Future Boss” by David Reese.