Reference check contact - Partner or HR?

Question

I was counseled out by a strategy consulting firm a while ago. Now that I have received an offer from a competitor, I'm wondering whether I should pick the partner or the HR as a reference check contact?

I have been more inclined to use the partner as my contact, because he was my mentor. But I have heard stories that another partner was once asked whether he would be willing to hire a person again during a reference check, and the blunt answer was “it depends”.

Since I am not able to control what will be asked in a reference check (performance?), I am thinking whether HR would be a better contact instead? HR tends to handle the reference check process in a more standard way, and the HR told me she usually doesn't disclose any performance-related information.

As I am joining a competitor, after taking the above context in mind, would you suggest me use partner or HR as a reference check contact? In addition, have you heard of any stories that offer god rescinded due to receiving bad feedback from the reference checks? Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Hi there,

it’s typically better to have someone as a reference who knows you well enough to also be able to provide more detailed and nuanced feedback rather than just the high and wide generic stuff. If said partner could do that for you, then I’d go with him. As your mentor, he should have a good grasp on your development curve and unless there is bad blood between you, it would be unusual for someone like him to ruin your chances with a new company. Consulting firms live off of the alumni network they cultivate.

Good luck

Answer 2

Hi there!

First of all, congrats on the new offer!

It's great that you managed to turn things around for yourself.

In short, it depends on how strong your relationship with the Partner is. If you're very close and you know he will be a sponsor and a supporter, then recommend them.

This way they are likely to improve your value prop.

If you're not that close and they were just your mentor during your time in the firm, then I'd rather incline for HR. This way at least you know they'll get the minimum but standard script.

Hope it all works well for you!

Best,
Cristian

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Answer 3

Hi there,

congrats!

Just pick the one you have stronger relationship with. If solid with both, would select the partner. You won't lose your offer from a reference check unless there are any ethical / compliance problems.

That said, since you already have the offer, it won't matter much, so suggest to not overthink these things.

Regards, Andi

Answer 4

Hi there,

Would go with partner only if your performance was good to stellar and/or you can ensure partner will be a strong supporter. Otherwise you could experience downsides (maybe not rescinding an offer - but still :))

Hope it helps.

Answer 5

Hi there,

Congrats on picking yourself back up and getting another offer!

Ultimately, for reference checks, you need to put the person that will represent you the best.

We don't know who this is. That said, I'm surprised you can only choose between 1 partner and 1 HR person? Think through others you worked with at the firm and who viewed you in the best light.

Answer 6

Hello,

I'd go with the person who you feel like you have a better relationship with and would advocate for you most strongly.

It's uncommon, but yes, getting bad feedback in reference checks could prevent someone from getting an offer.