How long should you stay at a job in order to get a good reference?

Long enough to do well at it, and then do well at it.

Well first of all you should stay the agreed time (if there was such a thing – at my job, it’s 2 years) – second of all you should make sure that all the bases are covered with your replacement and that they won’t feel you being gone.

I’ve gotten a good reference after only working somewhere for 2 months. It’s all about the connection you’ve made with your boss/supervisor, the quality of work you’ve done, and your reason for leaving.

I use 3 months as the threshold . . . whether good or negative reference.

At least past lunch.

@Simone_De_Beauvoir I agree you should stay the agreed time but after that you have to do what is best for you and your family. For instance, I may pass up an amazing opportunity if I wait for a replacement. Business is business. Once my obligation is filled, if I have an opportunity to advance, I’m gone. If I can stay without hurting my career, i’ll stay to help but otherwise…

I am with @njnyjobs on this one.

As long as it takes for you to earn it.

two years

At least three months of good work. Where I live, the so-called probationary period is three months, before the benefits and such have to kick in.

I think time span is irrelevant here. People change jobs all the time for various reasons, one of the best references I ever had was when I left VW, I was only with them for 4 mths as had to move unexpectedly, but they loved me. If you do a good job, you get a good reference!