Reference List FAQs
Whom should I ask to be my references?
References should be people who know you well and can easily share many
different positive stories about you. These stories should reflect how you would
perform in a given role. Don’t pick close friends or family members; they won’t be
able to offer objective feedback. Choose references who are representative of you
and your life. If you only rarely volunteer at an after-school mentor program, you
wouldn’t include more than one reference from that program. Finally, it seems
simple, but only ask people who will definitely say positive things about you. If
you aren’t sure that a potential reference can provide a positive review of you,
you should probably ask someone else!
How many references should I include?
If an employer requests a specific number of references, you should include that
number. Otherwise, three is the standard. As a rule, you should include more
professional references than character references, so if an employer requests
three references, at least two of these should be professional.
How often should I communicate with my references?
A reference should never be surprised to receive a call about your application.
Instead, you should communicate with your references at every step of the
application process. You should ask them to act as your references (this is a
commonly overlooked, but essential, first step). Then, update them about
different opportunities that arise so that they are prepared to sell your skill set for
specific positions. Finally, don’t forget to thank them for their help, regardless of
the outcome.
How often should I update my reference list?
You should update your reference list often, asking individuals who have recently
interacted with you and who are qualified to provide detailed information about
your experience and qualifications. Although it may be tempting to continue using
an outdated list, it’s always worth the time and energy to recruit new references.
Reference List FAQs
How should I present my references?
You should present your references in a list. The list should be in a document with
the same header as your resume. Each entry should show the person’s name,
current position, organization, and contact information. Generally, it’s best to
include each reference’s preferred method of contact, but also include any specific
methods of contact that an employer requests. Additionally, you may want to
include the nature of your relationship if it’s unclear (e.g., “Former Boss,” “Former
Colleague,” etc.).
When should I give a hiring manager my references?
You should be prepared to give a hiring manager your references upon request or
at your in-person interview. Do not include your reference list in your application
for every job; you wouldn’t want a number of hiring managers reaching out to your
references without you speaking to your references first about the specific
opportunities. Plus, your references may not even open an email or pick up a call
from an unknown person if they aren’t expecting it. Set your references up for
success by holding onto their information until a hiring manager needs it. Your
references will appreciate your restraint.