I am job hunting. Recruiters are calling me, asking for my references. However, some of them dont' even have a concrete job position in mind for me.
I rather NOT give my references out to just any recruiter!
My references said they were happy with my quality work, and dedication to the job. Twice recruiters called my references, which did NOT result in an invitation for a interview. Once the recruiter resigned from his job, and was nowhere to be found!
What's best to do.. give out references when asked, or include remarks from my current employer?
I will give references, as long as a serious interview is planned.
Nope
You don't have to give references to recruiters if you're not talking about a specific job. This is not to say that you "never should", but this sounds like they are using your references to become more candidates. If you don't have a pretty good relationship, or you're not in the hunt for a specific job with them, I'd simply tell them you'd like to wait on that.
Some will get irritated...but that's just because they think they have all the power.
Mark
References
I have gone half way.
I have provided their names and their roles however no contact details. They are CEO/Chairman so I their level assists with the credibility however I will not give out their mobiles etc until I was well down the offer road.
Gary