Identify Your 4 to 6 Best References
A strong reference list can be the deciding factor between you and another candidate of equal strength. References who know your work well, can speak specifically and enthusiastically about your contributions, and are easy to reach are invaluable. Preparing your list now means you are never scrambling when an employer asks.
A strong reference list can be the deciding factor between you and another candidate of equal strength. References who know your work well, can speak specifically and enthusiastically about your contributions, and are easy to reach are invaluable. Preparing your list now means you are never scrambling when an employer asks.
Step by Step
Understand what makes a strong reference The best references are people who:
Managed you directly and can speak to your performance and work ethic
Worked closely alongside you and can speak to your collaboration and specific contributions
Were your clients or stakeholders and can speak to the impact of your work
Are credible professionals whose opinion carries weight
The weakest references are personal friends, family members, or colleagues who only know you casually.
Write a list of 6 to 8 potential references Include former managers first, then close colleagues, then clients or stakeholders if relevant.
Select your strongest 4 to 6 Prioritize people who:
Knew your work in depth
Are likely to be enthusiastic and specific in their praise
Are easy to contact and will respond promptly when called
Have impressive titles or affiliations that add credibility
Decide on the order Your first reference should be the person most likely to give the strongest, most enthusiastic, and most specific endorsement of your work.
Tips for success
Always ask permission before listing someone as a reference. This is not just courtesy. It gives them the chance to prepare and ensures they will not be caught off guard.
Include a mix of reference types. One former manager, one peer colleague, and one client or stakeholder is a strong combination.
If your most recent manager is at the company that laid you off it is completely acceptable to use them as a reference. Most employers understand layoffs are not performance-related.