Choosing emplyment references for your job interview

When you’re applying for a job, one thing you want to have lined up is references to give when turning in your application. Below are some tips you can use to choose the best references who can showcase your background and abilities.

Look for People Who Can Talk About a Range of Topics

A good reference will be able to talk about how effective you were at work, but also the business relationship they had with you. Choose people whom you worked with in various capacities. For example, one reference might be able to attest to your ability to safely and efficiently operate a forklift. Another reference might be able to talk about your leadership capabilities in a community volunteer project. References are people who know you well enough to discuss your experience, habits, character traits and skills such as a supervisor, college professors or a college counselor if right out of college.

Ensure the Reference’s Information is Fresh

Before you offer someone as a reference, make sure you have their updated contact information. The last thing that you want to do is put someone down as a reference and have the recruiter realize that they couldn’t be contacted. So, before you hit send/publish/print, check email addresses and phone numbers to make sure they all work.

Don’t Discount Volunteer Positions

If you are newly graduated or you haven’t had a lot of paid work experience, there’s nothing wrong with putting down work you did as a volunteer. This can actually look good on a resume, and you’re still helping a potential employer learn more about your work ethic, ambition and character.

Give Your Reference a Heads Up

If you put someone down as a reference, let them know. First, it’s polite. Second, your reference can prepare for the conversation which will greatly benefit you.

The right references can make or break your chances of getting the job that you want. So, choose your references carefully and prioritize ones that will present you in the best possible light for prospective employers.

How many references should I have?

Most companies like around three references. Listing them on a separate page from your resume is appropriate. If you are filling out a job application have them ready to add. The potential employer might contact and ask questions about your work history, qualifications and work ethic.

How do you list references on your resume?

Don’t! Resumes should be one page with another page listing your references.

Photo by Shutterstock Always have references available when applying for a job.