REFERENCES
References are people who potential employers can contact for more information about you. Your references should be able to verify what's on your resume. References are important as most employers will not hire you without a reference check. Employers usually ask for three work-related references. Do not include your references directly on your resume. This information is not necessary until you reach the interview stage.
Well in advance of your interview, contact three references to let
them know you have an interview scheduled and advise them accordingly.
Do not include your references on your resume. Instead, prepare a
reference sheet containing the following information:
- Name of Reference
- Title of Reference
- Name of Organization
- Address of Organization
- Phone number of Reference/Organization
For example:
Ms. Jill Smith
Human Resources Manager
ABC Widget Corporation
123 Main Street
New York, NY 10118
Tel: 212-555-555
Who Are Suitable References?
References should know you for at least 1 year. Employers may ask references about your work experience, skills, strengths and weaknesses.
References can be:
Work Related: Former or present employers, managers and supervisors.
Personal: Co-workers, contacts in organizations where you have worked or volunteered.
REFERENCE CHECKLIST
Before the interview:
- Call your references before the interview to get their permission.
- Provide each of your references with a current resume; it will help them speak about you to the employer.
- Prepare your references with at least 3 work-related contacts. Type your list of references on an 8 ½ x 11 sheet of paper.
During the Interview:
Always bring your references sheet with you to the interview as you may be asked to provide them.
After the Interview:
- Give each reference the company name, position applied for, and the name of the person who might be contacting them.
- Thank your references even if you don't get the job.
- Keep in touch with your references in case you need them in the future.
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