References influence interview outcomes.

• Position: Job Market

Applicants take note: Executives today are looking for a few good words when making hiring decisions, according to a survey by Accountemps, Menlo Park, Calif., a temporary staffing service for temporary accounting, finance, and bookkeeping professionals. Senior managers questioned indicate they typically speak with at least three references before considering someone for a position, confirming the value of a third-party endorsement.

"Job seekers often overlook an essential step in the interview process--managing references," relates Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps and author of Job Hunting For Dummies. "To avoid hiring mistakes, companies want to learn as much as possible about applicants before extending an offer. Candidates can increase their chances of being hired by providing the names of people who will offer an accurate account of their skills and experience"

Candidates should review these tips on preparing references:

* Stack the deck. Develop a list of three to five references. Describe their connection to you...