References serve an important purpose during the job seeking process. They provide potential employers with insights into a candidate’s past work performance, skills, and professional conduct from people who have worked with the candidate previously. This allows employers to verify information provided on a resume or during interviews and helps them make more informed hiring decisions.
For job seekers, strong positive references and a recommendation letter can set them apart from other candidates and act as endorsements of their capabilities. On the other hand, weak or negative references can raise red flags for employers. This makes choosing appropriate, credible references an important part of putting your best foot forward during the application process.
Who to Ask for a Reference
Choosing who to list as a reference is an important strategic decision. The best references are people who can speak in detail about your qualifications and abilities in a work environment.
Good options include:
- Former managers or supervisors, especially from roles similar to the one you are applying for. They can speak about your responsibilities, performance, skills, and ability to succeed in the type of role.
- Co-workers or colleagues you worked closely with. They can highlight strengths they observed you demonstrate on a day-to-day basis.
- Professors or academic advisors if you have limited work experience. They can vouch for skills like research, writing, analysis, and aptitude for learning.
Avoid using family members or friends as references. Employers are looking for objective insights into your professional capabilities.
How Many References to Provide
The standard number of references to provide is 3-5. This gives employers enough perspectives to form a well-rounded view. However, some applications may specify providing more or less.
You don’t need to provide reference contact details in your initial application materials. Simply state “References available upon request.” Bring the full list of references and their contact information to interviews to provide upon request.
Contacting References Beforehand
It is important to connect with your references before listing them. Verify that they are comfortable providing a positive recommendation on your behalf. This ensures references are prepared and know to expect contact from potential employers.
Provide references with an updated copy of your resume so they are aware of your latest experience and qualifications. Discuss the type of role you are applying for and key skills or achievements to emphasize.
What Information Do References Provide?
References are usually asked to comment on areas like:
- Capabilities, skills, and work style they observed from working with you
- Your strengths and areas of improvement
- Details of your job responsibilities and performance
- Whether they would hire you again
- Reason for leaving the previous role (if applicable)
- Eligibility for rehire if you were let go, laid off, or resigned
Most reference checks are done by phone, though employers sometimes use written reference letters as well. Providing references with a recommendation letter can make it easy for them to showcase your merits in writing.
Putting Your Best Foot Forward
Here are some tips for getting the most out of your references:
- Maintain strong relationships. Nurture lasting connections with potential references so they are enthusiastic about supporting you.
- Confirm contact details. Ensure you have references’ current job titles and contact information.
- Send reminders. Reach out to refresh references on your background before they are contacted.
- Show appreciation. Follow up to thank them for providing a recommendation. Offer to return the favour.
- Avoid overuse. Do not rely on the same people too often for references. Spread out requests.
- Monitor feedback. Check in to see if the reference process reflected you positively. Read between the lines for any areas of improvement.
Alternatives for Lack of Strong References
If you are unable to provide strong references, here are some alternatives to explore:
- Colleagues from volunteer work or organisations. Fellow volunteers who can speak to skills like teamwork, responsibility, and initiative.
- Lecturers or professors. Those who directly supervised coursework or research projects and can discuss academic abilities.
- Professional contacts. Respected business acquaintances who can vouch for aspects like character, reliability, and specialty skills.
- Current supervisor. If your current employer doesn’t know you are job seeking, you can offer to contact them once an offer is on the table.
The Importance of Building Up References
Cultivating strong professional references is a key part of advancing your career. The opinions of those you have worked with closely carry a lot of weight in the hiring process.
Make it a priority to establish and maintain positive relationships with potential references throughout your career journey. The effort will pay off when strong endorsements from respected mutual connections provide a competitive edge during your next job search.
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