Q: I work for a newspaper company that does not permit editors to be used as references. I know some editors in the past who would but they have now left the paper and I continue to use them as my references.

How common is that and what should I do? How bad does it look on a resume to not have any current editors listed as references? Could it be one reason why I've tried for six months without as much as a bite?

Confused

A: This is very common. No one will be surprised by editors who adhere to a policy that restricts them from saying anything other than confirming dates of employment. I do not, however, think that this is the reason you're not getting any bites.

Editors usually don't get serious about asking for references until they've at least talked with you. It sounds like you're not getting that far.

Ways you can get around the reference issue:

• Provide a copy of your latest appraisal
  
• Ask for a generic letter of recommendation
  
• Offer to sign a release promising not to go after the paper if someone gives a bad reference.
  

Actually, the editors you apply to should have experience getting other editors to skirt the policy and give some indications.

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