Identify Your 3 to 5 Best References
As a recent graduate your reference pool is smaller than that of someone with years of professional experience. That makes it even more important to be strategic and intentional about who you choose and how you brief them.
As a recent graduate your reference pool is smaller than that of someone with years of professional experience. That makes it even more important to be strategic and intentional about who you choose and how you brief them.
Step by Step
Understand what makes a strong reference for a recent graduate The best references for recent graduates are people who:
Supervised you directly in an internship, co-op, or part-time role and can speak to your work ethic and contributions
Taught or supervised you academically and can speak to your intellectual capability and character
Worked alongside you in a volunteer, club, or project capacity and can speak to your collaboration and leadership
Know your professional potential firsthand even if they have not employed you
Write a list of potential references Include: internship or co-op supervisors first, then professors or academic advisors, then managers from part-time jobs, then volunteer supervisors or club advisors.
Select your strongest 3 to 5 Prioritize people who:
Knew your work directly and specifically
Will be enthusiastic and detailed rather than vague
Are credible professionals whose endorsement carries weight
Will respond promptly when contacted
Think about what each person is likely to say For each reference consider what specific things they are likely to highlight about you. Does what they would say align with the strengths you most want to communicate to employers?
Tips for success
A professor who supervised a significant research project or capstone can be an excellent reference. Academic references are completely acceptable for recent graduates.
If your best reference is a supervisor from a part-time retail or service job do not discount them. They can speak to reliability, work ethic, customer skills, and teamwork, all of which are genuinely valued by employers.
Never list someone as a reference without asking their permission first.