How to Choose and Contact References

References are a crucial component of professional applications, whether for employment, educational programs, or other opportunities. They provide potential employers or institutions with insights into your character, work ethic, and abilities. This guide will help you select appropriate references and effectively approach them for a recommendation.

Selecting the Right References

When choosing references, consider individuals who can speak positively about your skills, work ethic, and character. Good references should:

• Know you professionally: Select people who have supervised or worked directly with you in a professional or academic setting.
• Have positive things to say: Choose individuals with whom you had a good working relationship.
• Be reliable: Select references who will respond promptly to inquiries.
• Have credibility: People in senior positions or with respected reputations add more weight to their recommendations.

Types of References

Professional References

These are the most valuable references for job applications. They include current or former supervisors, colleagues, clients, or business associates. Supervisors are particularly effective as they can speak to your performance and work habits.

Academic References

If you're a recent graduate or have limited work experience, professors, teachers, or academic advisors can serve as references. They can comment on your intellectual abilities, research skills, and classroom participation.

Character References

These are people who can attest to your personal qualities. They might include mentors, volunteer supervisors, community leaders, or long-term acquaintances if you have no professional or academic alternatives.

How Many References Do You Need?

Most potential employers request three to five references. However, it's wise to prepare a list of 6-8 potential references so you can select the most appropriate ones for each opportunity. Different positions may require different types of references.

Asking Someone to Be Your Reference

Requesting someone to serve as a reference requires professional courtesy and preparation:

1. Ask well in advance: Give your references at least two weeks before they need to complete a recommendation.
2. Ask in person if possible: If not possible, send a professional email.
3. Be clear about the opportunity: Explain what you're applying for and why you think their recommendation would be valuable.
4. Ask if they can provide a positive reference: Ensure they feel comfortable recommending you.
5. Provide context: Share information about the position or opportunity that helps them tailor their recommendation.
6. Offer gratitude: Express appreciation for their time and willingness to recommend you.

Preparing Your References

Even after someone agrees to be your reference, help them provide the best possible recommendation:

• Provide a current resume or CV
• Share details about the position or opportunity
• Highlight specific achievements or experiences you'd like them to mention
• Inform them of any potential questions the employer might ask
• Give them a timeline of when they might be contacted

Providing References to Employers

When submitting your references:

1. Create a separate reference document with the same format and style as your resume.
2. Include each reference's name, job title, company, contact information, and your relationship to them.
3. Only provide references when requested or in the final stages of the application process.
4. Ask for permission before listing someone as a reference each time you apply for a new position.

Following Up With Your References

Maintain professional relationships with your references by:

• Keeping them informed about your job search status
• Thanking them after they provide a recommendation, regardless of the outcome
• Letting them know if you get the job or opportunity
• Offering to serve as a reference for them in the future

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When You Have Limited Work Experience

If you're new to the workforce or changing careers, consider these alternative references:

• Professors or teachers who can speak to your academic abilities
• Supervisors from volunteer work or internships
• Coaches or leaders of organizations you've been involved in
• Colleagues from academic projects or group work

Digital References

In today's digital world, online recommendations on platforms like LinkedIn can supplement traditional references. These endorsements can be particularly valuable if they come from respected professionals in your field. However, they should complement rather than replace traditional references, as most employers still prefer to speak directly with your recommenders.

Conclusion

Choosing and contacting references is a strategic element of any professional application. Thoughtfully selecting individuals who can provide meaningful insights about your abilities, approaching them professionally, and maintaining those relationships will strengthen your applications and contribute to your professional reputation. Remember that references are not just about what you've accomplished but also about the professional relationships you've built throughout your career.