Reference Page Information
Sooner or later in the job campaign, you are going to be asked for the names of three to six references. Some may be former employers, other contacts from nonwork settings. In either case, your references and what they say about you may make the difference between getting a job or finishing out of the running. Here are some tips for making references a stronger part of your application.
Brief Your Contacts
Make sure the people you are using as references know about your current,
as well as past, activities. And are also aware of the kind of work you
seek. One of the best ways to do this is to provide them with a complete
current resume, possibly augmented by notes on things they may wish to mention.
Get Their Permission
It goes without saying that you should always request permission to
use a person's name as a reference. You need not ask them every single time
their name is used but, if you haven't cited their name recently, check
to make sure it is still OK. Many people combine the request to use a reference
with the process of briefing, cited above.
You're Judged by Whom You Know
To the extent that persons you list as references are well-known and
respected in your community, what they say about you will carry more weight.
Ideally, references should be people who are leaders in an organization
at the management or professional level.
Provide Details on Your References
When you list references, give the name of the person, his or her job
title, place of employment, address and phone number. It's best to use a
work rather than a home address.
Pick the Right Kind of References
What relatives, ministers or rabbis, personal friends, and certainly
therapists say about you isn't going to do much for your job candidacy.
Conversely, what former employers, community officials, and other known
leaders say about you will help your cause.
Pick People Who Know Your Best Achievements
Were you honored in high school, college, or in your community for a
particular achievement? Did you do something outstanding in a prior position?
If you have had some major achievements in life, but don't want to tout
them too highly yourself, use as references someone who knows and can report
on them.
After They Have Helped, Inform and Thank References
When you know they have given a reference for you, be sure to thank
them and tell what happened. To the extent that they become interested in
your job campaign, they are more likely to give a more favorable report
next time.
Minichart developed by the Career Opportunities News
NAME
Address
City, State, Zip
Phone Number
REFERENCES
Name of Person
Position Title
Persons' Place of Employment
Employment Address
City, State, Zip of Employer
Work Phone
Fax Number (Optional)
Home Phone (Optional)
Name of Person
Position Title
Persons' Place of Employment
Employment Address
City, State, Zip of Employer
Work Phone
Fax Number (Optional)
Home Phone (Optional)
Name of Person
Position Title
Persons' Place of Employment
Employment Address
City, State, Zip of Employer
Work Phone
Fax Number (Optional)
Home Phone (Optional)