Job Reference Tips

Helpful job reference tips will increase your chances of getting a good employment reference.

• Always give your employment references a current copy of your resume. It is helpful if they have a detailed, up-to-date knowledge of your work history. To find out how to choose and manage your job references go to Job References


• Keep in touch with your job references. You don't have to contact them about every single job opportunity but if you are particularly interested in a position and it is looking positive, call the reference and explain what the company is looking for. They can then tailor their answers according to the job requirements.



• Know your company's policy on giving employment references. Find out which regulations and policies apply to your company. Some companies have a policy of not giving a full, formal reference but will only confirm dates of employment and position. This can be told to the potential employer and alternative references given.


• Plan ahead - the most vital reference tip! When you are leaving a company ask for a written letter of recommendation from your manager or supervisor. This also saves time later trying to track down past managers and supervisors who may have moved on. If you haven't done this yet, go back to the company and ask for the letter for your file as soon as possible.


• Keep your reference list information complete and up to date. Providing incorrect titles and contact numbers impacts negatively on the impression you want to give the potential employer


• Asking your reference to write a letter of recommendation helps to pre-qualify them. If they put time and effort into the letter they are likely to provide well though-out answers to reference check questions from a potential employer. Additionally you can get an idea of the sort of thing they will say about you and you can use the letter as an immediate reference if required. Try to give them enough time to write the letter, a rushed letter does no-one justice. Use this sample Job Reference Letter to request a letter of reference.


• Never suggest that a reference stretches the truth in giving information on you or submit a written reference letter that is inaccurate. The risks of this backfiring are very high. You also don't want your reference to overstate your skills and abilities to help you get a job for which you are not properly qualified. Being hired for a job at which you are likely to fail is a very damaging career move. You can refer to the sample Employment Reference Letter to see what should be included in a job reference.


• If you are concerned about what former employers are saying about you in their job references there are reference checking services you can use to check your references and give you a report. They charge a fee and should only be used if you are convinced that your references are impacting negatively on your job search. Find out the most frequently asked Reference Check Questions and be prepared.


• Only give your list of references to a potential employer when requested to do so. However always have it available at job interviews so that you can present it when asked. Use this Sample Job Reference List to draw up a proper references list.

  Don't list references on you resume unless specifically requested. This helps you manage your references more effectively.



• And finally, another essential reference tip. Always thank references for their help once you have found a position. This way they will be left with a positive impression of you and be willing to assist again.

Comprehensive sample Reference Check Form to download and use.

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Follow the job reference tips to strategically manage and get the best out of your job references.

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