Reference Page

Once an employer begins to get serious, the person doing the hiring may want to contact your references as part of the final screening process. To make this easier for the employer, prepare a list of references. Although most employers require at least 3 references, it is a good idea to provide an employer with a range of references, possibly 4 or 5, so that they can get a feel for who you are.

When choosing the people you will be using as references, your first priority is to gain their permission. They need to be aware that they might receive a phone call or be asked to complete a form describing you as an employee or student. If they have been given time to think about what they wish to highlight about you, your recommendation will be much stronger. You should take the time to prepare them by sending them information on the types of jobs that you now seek, a current resume and other details. If there is ever a question whether they would provide you with a positive reference, discuss this in advance so that you know what they are likely to say about you. If it is not positive, consider dropping them from your list.

Select people to validate what you have stated in your resume. For instance, if your resume states that you "expanded product line leading to 23% sales increase", your supervisor should be provided as a reference to confirm this.

Some people you might use as references, in addition to supervisors, include: superiors, subordinates, professors, peers, volunteer coordinators, major clients, customers and people with influential titles.

The most important references are generally your superiors. If possible, include at least two previous employers as references. In contacting previous supervisors, potential employers are looking for information about the contribution you made to that firm. Subordinates and peers should emphasize your ability to be a team player. Clients and customers should highlight your customer service skills and interpersonal communication skills. If you have not had work experience, then you can use professors / teachers as references.Include all the information that a potential employer may wish to know. You should provide the following: full name, title, organization name, address and phone number, best time to call and relationship to you. Be sure this information is correct, and it is extremely important that your reference agreed to have their information listed. List only the information your reference gave permission for you to use. Do not assume the work number or the home number is the best for contact. Let your reference decide.

Your references should not be included as part of your resume. If the potential employer specifically requests that references be provided as part of your application, then you should attach it as a separate sheet behind your resume.

Only provide your reference page when requested.

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