Who to Ask for a Job Reference

Who to Ask for a Job ReferenceWho to Ask for a Job ReferenceWhen applying for a job, you will most likely have to provide a list of references. Referencesare people who can vouch for your skills and abilities as a worker. Typically, your references will be your previous employers. However, you can also ask otzu sich people, including teachers, volunteer leaders, colleagues, and even friends. Or, use them as additional references, especially if you are concerned your employer will give you a bad review. Sometimes you will simply have to ask your referencesif you can put their names down on areference list, and then the employer might ask them questions about you via phone or email. Other times, you will have to ask these people to write you aletter of recommendation, and send it to the employer. Either way, you want to select references who will speak well of you. Read below for more advice on who to ask for a reference, what kinds of references there are, how many references to ask f or, and how to create a list of references. Who(and How) to Ask for a Job Reference Who should you ask to provide references? Most commonly, you will ask your former employers and supervisors to be references for you. However, you can also include other people with whom youve had a professional relationship. For example, you might include colleagues, business contacts, customers, clients, or vendors. Only ask people who you believe will provide a positive reference for you. Your references should also know you (or your work) well. This knowledge will help the person to discuss your strengths and character in detail. Its also important to select references who will respond in a timely manner to inquiries from prospective employers. When an employer is serious about possibly hiring you, you will want to have references who will get back to them right away. Even if the reference knows you well, be sure to provide him or her with your updated resume and any other related materials t o inform them of your skills and experiences. Always ask before putting a persons name down on your reference list. Also, provide your reference with background information on the reason youre requesting the letter. For example, you might supply him or her with the job description, or write a brief summary of the job. If your reference knows about the job you want, they can frame their reference to provide helpful details. Also remember to always follow up with your reference, sending athank you noteto show your gratitude. Professional vs. Personal References In addition toprofessional references,personal references(which are also known as character references) can be used for employment purposes. A personal reference is one that speaks not to your employment abilities, but to your character. Personal references are ideal if you have limited work experience, or if you are worried that your former employer will give you a negative review. Neighbors and family friends may be willi ng to write a personal reference for you. Teachers, professors, academic advisers, volunteer leaders, and coaches can all also provide personal or character references. How Many References to Ask For Employers generally expect a list of three references, so have at least that many people ready to recommend you. However, if the employer asks for a different number of references, make sure you follow their directions. What do you do if you have to include your last employer as a reference, but are worried he or she will give you anegative reference? One solution is to add a couple of extra references toyour reference list who you know will give you a positive review. Another option is to be proactive and reach out to your former employer. You might say that, while you did not leave on the best of terms, you are very excited about the job you are applying for and would appreciate a positive reference. How to Provide Information About Your References Theres no need to include yo urreferences on your resume. Instead, prepare a separate list of your references. Be sure to include their names and all necessary contact information. Here is asample reference list, as well as information onhow to format your list of references. Follow Up With Your References Its important to follow up your with your references, so they are aware of your employment status and know they may be contacted to provide a reference. Let them know when youre hired as well - they will be thrilled to hear the good news.