Eleanor Finch
When applying for a job, you may be asked to provide a reference sheet or list alongside your resume and cover letter. References are people who can vouch for your work ethic, skills, achievements, and character. They are usually friends, coworkers, or college instructors, but can also be former employers, supervisors, or individuals you have worked for in other capacities, such as volunteering or odd jobs. It is important to choose references who are suitable for the role you are applying for and who can speak positively about your relevant skills and experiences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Professional relationship | Former boss or supervisor |
| Former or current coworkers | |
| Former or current internship colleagues | |
| Current or former clients | |
| Volunteers | |
| Volunteer supervisors | |
| Teachers or professors | |
| Coaches or advisors | |
| Family friends | |
| Friends (only if they supervised you or are currently employed at the business to which you’re applying) | |
| Individuals who can vouch for your character (if you have little to no work experience) | |
| Individuals with authority or a well-known reputation in your community | |
| Individuals with experience in the same industry or occupation you’re applying for | |
| Long-term associates | |
| Responsiveness | Responsive to the hiring manager's call or email |
| Preparedness | Knowledgeable about your skills, qualifications, and experiences |
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What You'll Learn
Former employers
However, if you didn't get along with your former boss, you might want to use a former coworker instead. A coworker who worked directly with you and is familiar with your work can give a more professional reference than a work friend who doesn't understand your job responsibilities.
If you're a recent college graduate or don't have a lengthy work history, a college professor or academic advisor can be a good alternative reference. They can speak to your character and skills, especially if they supervised a long-term project or experiment.
When choosing a former employer as a reference, it's important to inform them of your intention and ask their permission. It's also helpful to provide them with information about the job you're applying for, including the job title, company name, why you want to work there, and why you think you're a good fit. This will help them prepare and understand why it's important to you.
Remember, a good reference is someone who speaks highly of you and can respond promptly to the hiring manager's call or email. It's also beneficial to choose references who are relevant to the job you're applying for and can attest to the qualifications and skills needed for that role.
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Current or former coworkers
When applying for a new job, recruiters may ask you to provide a reference sheet or list along with your resume. A reference is someone the hiring manager can speak to if they want to learn more about who you are, what you're like, and your past performance. They may also ask about your work ethic, reliability, and overall suitability for the role.
If you are a first-time job seeker, your reference list will mostly include people who can attest to your character and how they feel you would perform as an employee. It is important to choose references who can speak to the qualifications you need for the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job in academia, a previous professor or academic counselor might be your best option.
It is crucial to inform people you intend to use as references and provide them with details about the job, your resume, and why you think you are a good fit. This helps them prepare and understand why it is important to you. It is also essential to choose responsive references who can promptly respond to the hiring manager's call or email.
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Professors or teachers
When applying for a job, it is common for employers to request references. A reference is someone who can speak to your work ethic, skills, achievements, qualifications, experience, character traits, and suitability for the role.
When asking a professor or teacher to be a reference, it is important to prepare them for success. Share with them information about the job you are applying for, provide a copy of your resume, and highlight any specific skills or experiences you would like them to discuss. It is also a good idea to ask permission before listing someone as a reference, so they are not caught off guard when the employer calls.
If you are a recent graduate with limited work experience, there are other options for references besides professors or teachers. Coaches, mentors, or advisors can also be good references, as can guidance counsellors, provided you have met with them regularly. Institutions you have volunteered for can also serve as great references, as they demonstrate your work ethic and desire to make a positive impact.
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Volunteer supervisors
When applying for a job, a reference is a person who can provide a recommendation or confirm your qualifications for a position. They are usually people who know you well enough to discuss your experience, habits, character traits, work ethic, skills, and achievements. References are typically requested after the initial application process and after an interview.
When choosing a volunteer supervisor as a reference, it is important to select someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your skills and experiences. It is also a good idea to inform them in advance and provide them with information about the job you are applying for, so they can prepare and understand why it is important to you.
In addition to volunteer supervisors, there are several other types of references you can consider, depending on your background and the job you are applying for. These include former employers, professors or teachers (especially if you are a recent graduate), advisors, coaches, former coworkers, and personal or character references.
Remember, the key to a strong reference list is diversity. Aim to choose references who can speak to different aspects of your character, skills, and experiences in various settings. This will help employers make an informed decision about your suitability for the role.
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Friends or family members
When choosing a friend or family member as a reference, it is crucial to select someone who is an excellent communicator and can coherently describe your positive attributes. They should be dependable, responsive, and able to respond professionally to the hiring manager's inquiries. It is also important to ensure that your reference is prepared and informed about the job you are applying for, so they can make a strong connection between your skills and the job requirements.
While friends or family members can be used as references, it is generally recommended to use professional references whenever possible. These include former colleagues, supervisors, or advisors, who can speak to your work ethic, skills, and achievements in a more relevant and credible manner. However, if you are a recent graduate or do not have extensive work experience, friends or family members with personal knowledge of your character and skills can be a suitable alternative.
In some cases, using a friend or family member as a reference may carry a risk of being discovered, especially if they are not genuinely connected to the company or role you are applying for. While some individuals have successfully used friends as references without issues, it is important to carefully consider the potential consequences. If the hiring manager discovers that your reference is not legitimate, it could be considered a cause for immediate dismissal from the job.
Ultimately, when deciding whether to use a friend or family member as a job reference, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks. While friends and family can provide personal testimonials, it is crucial to ensure their connection to you is credible and that they can professionally advocate for your qualifications and skills.
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Frequently asked questions
Your reference list should primarily consist of individuals who can speak to your character and how they feel you would perform as an employee. This could include teachers, professors, volunteer supervisors, coaches, or people you have done odd jobs for, like babysitting or mowing lawns.
A good reference should have authority, experience, and history. They should be someone of stature, accomplishment, or seniority, with a well-known reputation in your community. They should also have experience in the same industry or occupation you're applying for. Lastly, a long-standing relationship is more beneficial than a recent one.
Firstly, ensure that your reference knows you well and will give a positive review. Secondly, inform your reference about your intention to include them on your list and provide them with details about the job, your resume, and why you're a good fit. Lastly, send a quick email to your references after submitting your application, including information about the job title, company name, and why you want to work there.
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