Advice for Seeking Job References

When interviewing for a new job, you need to be able to provide references to your future perspective employer. You will want to be prepared ahead of time with a reference list of people that you can rely on to give you a good report. Here is some advice for seeking job references.

Do I need a job reference?

Job references are needed for just about any job. Job references give a prospective employer insight into who the job candidate is, and what they are capable of doing.

How do I ask someone for a job reference?

Call the people on your reference list and let them know you are job hunting. Ask them politely if they would mind using them for a reference. It I OK to coach your job references. Let them know what kind of job you are seeking as well as things they can say to help you. Find out the best times to contact them and write it on your contact list to leave with your prospective employer

If I need a job reference, who should I ask?

Include your past or current employer or coworkers on your list of references. Your future employer needs to know that you have nothing to hide from a previous job. If you do not want your current employer to know that you are job hunting, find a previous employer to use as your reference. The best people to ask for a job references are people involved in the same industry and people to can attest to your character. If you are trying to get a job in nursing, ask someone whom you have dealt with in that field. Likewise, if you are looking for a teaching job, find teachers to be your references. Other good people to ask are community leaders, and religious leader, or former instructors.

Whom should I not ask to give a job reference?

Avoid using relatives as job references. It will be obvious to the prospective employer that they are biased and may not give a balanced reference. You should also avoid asking your best friend to give you a reference. Try to find the most professional people you know.

How do I follow up to know if my references have been checked?