To contact boss from a long time ago for a reference

[pipnchops]

I'm applying for a job relevant to something I did over 10 years ago and would like to get back into. My boss at the time (back in 2008!) thought very highly of me but I haven't been in touch since I asked her for a reference in around 2010 (which she was happy to). Is it strange if I contact her now and ask if I can put her as a reference again? She's very high up in the industry I want to get back into and would be a great reference. I've found her on linked in. So AIBU to contact her?

Will she even remember you? People from jobs a couple of years ago don’t remember me! 10 years is a long time - how would she be able to comment on your work?

No harm in asking, I’m sure if she thought highly of you, she’d like to hear what you’re up to now.

When I was applying for a job in 2014 I asked my old boss for a reference - I hadn't worked for him or been in touch with him since 2005. So I think this would be ok.

I've just been asked for a reference for someone I haven't worked with since 2013. I think it's fairly standard nowadays as most places want references from two previous employers and if you've been at the same place for a long time you have to go further back.

I was a boss 10 years ago. I remember all the people I line managed (and from 20 years ago too.) I would be happy to provide a reference for any of them.

If you think that the job you did 10 years ago is relevant to what you're applying for now, go ahead and contact him/her. The worst thing that can happen is that they could say no, but they will probably be happy to help.

Slightly different but when I was applying for a PGCE I tried to ask the head of the school I volunteered at for a UCAS reference. That head had retired but I was referred to the class teacher whose class I had helped in.

She didn’t remember me (two years later) and told me I should use somebody who knew me better and was more recent!

Thanks, sounds like it might be worth contacting her, worst case she doesn't remember me!