Dave writes: I was digging around your career site looking for information on how to make best use of references. I am considering asking 2 former managers and 1 personal friend to be references for me but want to know how much coaching I should give them.
Do you have any articles or advice on this topic?
The Career Doctor responds: We offer two articles: How to Get and Use References and Recommendation Letters and The Keys to Choosing and Using the Best Job References.
First, never ever put names of references on your resume. References belong on a separate sheet of paper that matches the look and feel of your resume, but is simply titled “References.” And never give references to employers until they request them.
Second, think strategically about reference choices. You want the people who are going to make the strongest recommendations for you. Former supervisors do not have to be references, especially if they did not know all your accomplishments or you fear they will not have glowing things to say about you. Sometimes former co-workers make the best choices. Again, the key is people who will say positive things about you.
Third, you ideally want about three to five references — people who can speak highly of your accomplishments, work ethic, skills, education, performance, etc. For experienced job-seekers, most references should come from previous supervisors and co-workers, though you may also choose to list an educational (mentor) or personal (character) reference. For college students and recent grads, there is a little more flexibility, but ideally you have several references from internships or volunteer work in addition to professors and personal references. Avoid listing family members; clergy or friends are okay for personal references.
Fourth, get permission. Before you even think of listing someone as a reference, be sure and ask whether the person would be comfortable serving as a reference for you. Most people will be flattered — or at least willing to serve as a reference — but you still need to ask to be sure.
Fifth, get complete information from each reference: name, title, company, address, and contact information (daytime phone, email, cell phone, etc.).
Sixth, keep your references informed (and perhaps coached). Make sure each reference always has a copy of your most current resume, knows your key accomplishments and skills, and is aware of the jobs/positions you are seeking. Again, the best references are the ones that know who you are, what you can accomplish, and what you want to do.
Seventh, be sure to thank your references once your current job search is complete. Some companies never contact any references, some only check the first one or two, and some check all. Regardless, these people were willing to help you, and thanking them is simply a common courtesy.
