After spending grueling hours constructing a power-packed resume and a cover letter that is the perfect blend of enthusiasm and professionalism, your list of references may seem like the easy part of your job search. However, a little courtesy and thought is required to ensure that your references are prepared to give the best possible recommendation of your skills. Here are a few tips that will help your references to be prepared.

1. Get permission before naming someone as a reference.

Even if you are sure that someone would consent to be a reference for you, it is still essential to ask their permission before giving out their contact information to a potential employer. Although a reference may be flattered to be chosen, most people don’t want to be caught by surprise. If they haven’t had time to think about what they would say about you to a potential employer, they may not know how to respond to questions they are asked, and may not describe your talents as well as they otherwise could. Additionally, some references may be offended that you did not ask permission before giving their contact information to a stranger and might be feeling upset with you at the time they are answering questions about your performance, which is certainly not in your best interests.

Instead, make a telephone call or send an email to a potential reference first, and make certain that they don’t mind being listed as a reference for you.

2. Give information to your reference.

Although it may seem that your references will give a glowing report about you no matter what, providing them with some information about the position you’re seeking can assist them in framing their answers in a way that is most helpful to you. For instance, if they know that you are seeking a position in management, they will know to place emphasis on your leadership abilities and your knack for inspiring other employees to do their best. Usually, references want to assist you in obtaining the position you want, so be sure to give them enough information to allow them to do so.

3. Make sure the reference will be a good one.

When asking someone for permission to include them in your reference list, check to see if they seem enthusiastic about acting as a reference, or if they appear hesitant. Be sure to ask if they would feel comfortable describing your job skills to a potential employer. If they seem reluctant to agree, it may be that they have some concerns about your job performance, or they are concerned about their own ability to adequately describe your skills. If your potential reference does not respond positively and with enthusiasm, it may be best to leave them off your reference list and find someone else to take their place.

4. Say “thank you.”

After a potential employer has been in touch with your reference, be certain to follow up with them and say “thank you,” even if you did not get the job. Showing your appreciation this way will make your reference more likely to be willing to serve as a reference in the future as you continue your job search.

Although choosing your references seems like a simple process, a little courtesy can help to ensure that your references will give the best description possible of the talents you have to offer a potential employer. By following these tips, you can help optimize your reference list, and increase your chances of landing the job that’s right for you.



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