No recent reference..what to put on application?

WantToBeSE

I am applying for a job in a field that i trained in and would LOVE to even get an interview for it.

However, i don't have a recent reference.

As soon as my training had been completed (4 years ago now) i had to set up a cleaning business because i could not work full time and needed something flexible due to my sons severe mental health issues.

So i don't have a recent reference, but i have loads of transferable skills, as the job is working in mental health.

What do i do about not having a recent reference?

I know I'd be good at the job, and i have filled in lots of information about my transferable skills on the form. I am hoping they will read it and that my experience will outweigh this problem, but i know I'll still need a reference.

YouAsked

Could you get references from your clients?
Is the training provider still in existence - if so they may provide a reference.
How explicit is the application form on who should be used as a reference?

shortcrust

I'd give them a call, explain that you've been self employed for the last few years and can't provide an employer reference. Ask what other types of references they might accept such as personal, customer, tutor.

Undervalued

shortcrust wrote: »

I'd give them a call, explain that you've been self employed for the last few years and can't provide an employer reference. Ask what other types of references they might accept such as personal, customer, tutor.

Yes although I would personally do it in writing or by email.

Above all what employers want is honesty and you cannot provide what you don't have. All you can do is explain why and offer whatever options are open to you such as clients or personal referees.

WantToBeSE

Thank you so much, i appreciate the replies.

Yes, i could definitely ask former clients for a reference, at least 2 come to mind. I had to close my business in February and i know that 3 of my clients said that if i ever need a reference i could contact them.

But isn't that just something that people say? Maybe i could take them up on their offer...

I have explained on the 'Please talk about any transferable skills you have' section about my being self-employed, so i'm assuming they would already take this into account.

WantToBeSE

You know what, i think I'll just bite the bullet and contact 2 of my ex-clients and ask if they would be happy to provide references.

I am pretty sure that at least 1 of them will say yes, considering he keeps asking me to come back because he thought i did a really good job

polgara

Don't ever assume - chances are the people doing the reference checks don't look at the other sections! Their role isn't to scan through applications forms, thats for the recruiting panel. Like suggested earlier give the HR department a call and explain - they will need references of some type.

WantToBeSE

polgara wrote: »

Don't ever assume - chances are the people doing the reference checks don't look at the other sections! Their role isn't to scan through applications forms, thats for the recruiting panel. Like suggested earlier give the HR department a call and explain - they will need references of some type.

Thanks Yes, you are definitely right..i was kind of just thinking out loud there, hadn't thought it through.

Hence my latter post.