You may have to provide employers with a list of your references. Or, employers may ask that your references submit letters of recommendation (also known as reference letters) for you. References can be complicated, from knowing whom to ask for one (and how), to providing contact information in the right format. Learn everything job seekers need to know about references. Plan ahead and get your references in order before you need them. It will help you avoid scrambling to put together a list at the last minute. Some employers will request that references write you a letter of recommendation. Make sure you know what the employer wants from your references.
Academic Recommendation Letters Employment Reference Letters Personal Reference Letters Sample Reference Letters
Make sure to only ask people who you are confident will give you a positive reference. Consider asking previous employers, colleagues, business contacts, and others who know your professional abilities. Here’s more about who to use for references when you apply for jobs and how your references can help your job search. Provide your reference with all the information they need. For example, if they have to write you a letter, give them information on what to include, where to send it, and when it is due. Also, tell your references about the jobs you are applying for, so they can begin to think about how your skills and abilities match the roles. A professional reference should know you in a work-related capacity, such as being a former employer, a colleague, a client, a vendor, a supervisor, or someone else who can recommend you for employment. If you are a recent college graduate with limited work experience, you might also be able to use a professor or college administrator as a professional reference. Review information on who makes the best professional reference, how to find out what he or she will say about you, and how to provide references to employers. A personal reference is someone who can speak to your character and abilities. This person typically knows you in a more personal capacity. A personal reference can be a neighbor, a volunteer leader, a coach, or even a friend. Get more information about who to ask for a character reference, and how to write a character reference letter. Here are examples of personal reference letters:
Personal Reference Letter Examples Student Reference Letters Business References
Here’s advice on how to get LinkedIn recommendations, who to ask for references, and how to manage the recommendations you’ve received.
Include your name at the top of the page List out each reference—include the person’s name, job title, company, and contact informationInclude a space in between each reference.
Each time you use someone as a reference, take the time to follow up with them on the status of your job search. Here are sample character and professional recommendation letters. You’ll also find information on how to utilize references, reference lists, and related resources.
