You can not only boost your chances of being hired by providing references for positions you’re applying for, but you can also maintain a positive relationship with a previous employer during the hiring process. Keeping in touch with coworkers of previous jobs might help you grow your network and open doors to new career chances.
What is a Professional Reference?
A Professional Reference is a letter of recommendation from someone who can attest to your job qualifications. These recommendations can include employment references from prior employers or coworkers and references from people who know you professionally, such as clients or business acquaintances.
You can also prepare a list of professional references ahead of time and include only the most relevant on a resume. The most effective resumes are usually personalized to the specific job or organization you’re applying for, and you should think about targeting your references in the same way you feel about your talents, work history, strengths, and accomplishments.
What Professional References to use?
It isn’t easy to know who to call for professional recommendations. Employers typically request three professional references, and choosing the best people, especially those new to the job, can be difficult.
- Former Supervisors
Current or Former Supervisors are the greatest people to ask about your work ethic.
- Coworkers
Use a coworker familiar with your work who has worked closely with you if you don’t get along with your boss.
- Professors
Professors that teach in fields similar to the job you’re seeking are excellent references, and the majority are willing to assist. Make an effort to ensure that the professor you admire recognizes you.
- Other well-known Specialists
Even if you haven’t worked with someone well-known in the field or have a prominent position, you can use them as a reference.
- Internship
Volunteering, internships, and freelance work are all options. You can include customers from freelancing work and references from volunteer and internship situations. This way is especially beneficial for persons with little work experience. If you mention a client from freelancing work, make sure they’re a professional firm with relevant experience.
How to Provide Employers with References?
- Include the job title, name, company, phone number, address, and email address when providing a professional reference to a potential employer.
- Make a list of references that you can give to potential employers.
- Before giving out someone’s contact information, make sure you have permission to use them as a reference.
Conclusion
The average job applicant should have three to four solid references on a professional resume for senior roles, including five to seven references on their resumes. Always put your strongest recommendation at the top of your list, as Referrals are usually checked at this point, most often by potential employers.
A current list of people willing to serve as references is always a wise move. When we are close to receiving a job offer, we consider connections. That’s not unusual, and it’s never too late to fix it right now.