PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES

You’ve done an amazing job, delivered stellar performance reviews, grades and now you are moving on. Now what? Whether it’s a new opportunity or graduation, always think about who will serve as your reference for your next employer.  References are valuable, and offer your potential employer a glimpse into your solid work ethic and experience. More importantly, it aligns with your brand reputation and how you are perceived in your past roles to managers and peers.

Are you prepared when a potential employer request an Employment Reference?  The importance of having an Employment Reference when potential employers ask for one is vital to your employment.  Will you have your list ready? 

Being proactive in putting together a list of employment references is a very good idea.  It is important to have a list of individuals who can attest to the skills and qualifications that you have for the position you are interested in applying for. 

What is a Professional Reference?

A professional reference is a recommendation from an individual who can vouch for your qualifications for a job.   For an experienced applicant, an employee can request a reference from the following:  Former employer, colleague, client, vendor, supervisor, or someone else who can recommend them for employment.

On the other hand, recent college graduates and individuals with little or no experience would look to professors, coaches, advisors to provide references.  It is important to pick references who have observed in a productive way where you displayed your skills and credentials for employment.

Types of Professional Reference – Personal or Character

The professional reference mainly speaks about the applicant’s employability and work related qualities.  Whereas, personal or charter references refer to your personal character traits.  A personal or character reference is use by individuals who haven’t worked before or have limited experience in the workforce.  A personal or character reference can be used as an alternative to a professional from people who know you. 

LinkedIn Recommendations: Keep in mind that you can also provide references on LinkedIn. If you have recommendations on your LinkedIn Profile, prospective employers will be able to see, at a glance, who is recommending you and what they have to say.

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References for Employment – Who to Ask For a Reference

There are a number of people that you can ask for a professional reference.  This list can vary based on how well these individuals can speak, have observed and can attest to the skills and qualifications for the job you are seeking.  This list may includes the following individuals: 

1. Former Employers
2. Co-workers/Colleagues
3. Teacher/Professor/Coach
4. Advisor/Academic/Career
5. Industry Professionals
6. Community Leaders
7. Volunteer Coordinators
8. Leadership Groups & Clubs
9. Friends and Family (only if they’re professional references)
10. Current Bosses

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How to Select a Reference

Once you have narrowed down your list of who to ask for a Professional, Character or Personal Reference, it is time to decide your method of asking these individual for permission to use them as a reference.

First, select 3-5 people (keep a few alternative names), if given the chance to obtain written references before your employment, volunteer opportunity, class project or other assignment ends, that is always best.  If not, you want to manage a concise list of emails and phone numbers so that you can reach out to these individuals at a later date in time. Ultimately, these are your biggest fans, mentors and managers who had your best interest in mind.

If you’ve invested the time building genuine relationships, it’s just a matter of asking the most appropriate people from your network if they’d be willing to support you.  If they say yes, make it easy for them by providing a copy of the job description and your resume.  Don’t forget to follow up with a thank-you note, and return the favor if possible, so they will continue to be willing to help you when you need it. Maintaining a good rapport with these individuals will make a difference when it’s time to call upon them for a reference.

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Reference Information

Once you’ve secured a job reference, collect their contact information.  Get their full name, current title, phone number, cell number, email address, and work address and how long they have known you.  These details will be required by most employers during the interview process.   

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For reference letter samples, visit https://www.thebalance.com/reference-letter-examples-2062924

~Angela King