This is how you get references without losing your developer job

Career AdviceCareer

Finding a new job while you're unemployed can become a stressful task. However, even looking for a job while you are still employed presents a variety of challenges. Often one of the most uncomfortable scenarios is trying to get a good reference from your current employer without your manager finding out that you're considering a job change.

Here are some tips on how to get references without losing your job.

Ask a trusted colleague

For most applications, the more recent your reference, the better. The hard part is getting a reference while still in your current role. But how do you know who to trust? Will it come out that you're thinking of changing jobs? Will your friend tell someone else? To get a reference from your current employer, the greatest creed is caution. Pick a trusted colleague and talk to them offline. Take a coffee break or have lunch together, but avoid formal, proprietary communication channels. And yes, that includes Slack!

However, you should refrain from asking anyone in senior management positions, even though a senior reference is very tempting. The manager naturally asks himself how your departure will affect the success of your team or the company. This could negatively affect your future at the company, especially if you decide to stay.

A happy customer

If you work with an agency or external contacts, you can use them as a reference for your current job. Make sure this is someone you've gotten to know better over the years. It is customary to develop friendly relationships with customers. There's nothing wrong with asking how satisfied they were with your work. Again, do not use internal company channels for this, but meet in person before you give the customer as a reference. This usually works best when it's someone who previously had a lot to do with your organization but is now doing little or nothing with your company.

A current or former mentor

If neither colleagues nor clients are an option, you should consider an external reference. Ideally, your mentor is not affiliated with your current organization. It may be a past professor that you have stayed in touch with, a past employer who has always helped you, or even a family friend who works in a similar field who has taken you under their wing. The person has experience in your field, making them a credible source. Especially if your development steps from previous positions to the current position can be mapped well. We also recommend a strong LinkedIn presence to validate your experience.

Your former boss

This reference is usually the easiest to obtain and can be obtained from various companies from the past. How you leave a company can have a big impact on your future job. Don't forget that your manager is the ideal reference for your next job. This person has worked closely with you, knows your skills and has great credibility due to their independence. Always try to keep in touch with such people. So that they don't feel uncomfortable when you need something from them. So send them a message via LinkedIn or email and ask to meet up.

Your exit

Getting a reference from your current employer can be a tricky task. Internally, you may be able to bring in an employee or client. If not, you should consider external references. However, always choose people who want the best for you. No matter how troubled or desperate you are at the moment, always hold back with your applications and don't trumpet your intentions too early.