[Hollinsanity]

I am looking for an entry-level public accounting or auditing position and two headhunters have asked for 2-3 references each up front. I am hesitant to give them my references, as I also have an interview with a local CPA firm tomorrow and don’t want my references to get called 3-4 times and get burnt out.

Anyone have experience in a similar situation or any advice for me? Is this commonplace for recruiters/headhunters to ask for references up front, before even meeting them in person?

[fuzyfro89]

Yes, some recruiters will ask for references in order to work with you (some will even call them!). Others may wait until there's something they want to represent you for and will call them later.

It's very reasonable to ask them. Something like “Hi [recruiter], I'm happy to provide references. Can you tell me when you may plan to contact them? I hope this doesn't come as a shock, but I am pursuing other opportunities outside of the ones you are representing me on and I would hope to not overload my references.”

They may respond and say they want to contact them immediately, or just getting them in advance so they can move quickly if you find something to interview.

Whatever their response, it's up to you to manage your references. A few calls should be reasonable, but if you plan to have 10+ interviews and each wants references, it may get exhausting and is a bit of a tal ask for a reference. But, that's something you should talk over with your references. “Hi [reference], I'm planning to start applying soon for a few jobs and you may get called on my behalf directly. Can you please let me know if the contacts become too difficult for you to keep up, and I'll try to manage.”

Again, it comes back to you. Applying and interviewing at a million companies will annoy your references (even I would be annoyed if it were me).

[Author]

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