10 Tips for Choosing the Best Job References

Part of the job seeking experience includes having the right reference. A good reference can convince an employer that you have the right skills and experience to excel in the job. You need to take caution when choosing which reference you put on your job application. What your referee says about you can strengthen or weaken your cover letter and resume. If you are looking to impress your next employer, then you will need to take these 10 tips for choosing the best references.

1. Ask your manager or a past boss

Part of the job seeking experience includes having the right reference but do choose a former supervisor whom you had a good work relationship.

2. Ask a colleague or coworker.

References are anybody who can attest to your qualifications for the job. You can also ask co-workers who you have a good relationship with to act as one of your references.

3. Get several references.

Try to have at least three references for the job that you are applying for. Choose references strategically based on the different requirements for the job.

4. Know what your references will say about you.

Always choose references who have agreed to provide positive recommendations.

5. Make sure your references can focus on your best achievements.

Your best references will speak about your skills, work ethic, and achievements on the job. If you have won awards or have contributed to other projects or causes, ask them to talk about that too.

6. Choose your references according to the requirements of the job at hand.

Get the references that can have a compelling report about what you can bring to the table for the job that you are applying for.

7. Pick and choose depending on the job.

Gather your references that can cover the job requirements for the particular job that you are applying for.

8. Internal references have a high impact on hiring.

If you have any connections within the company you’re applying to, then you ask if they would be willing to stand as one of your references.

9. Keep your references updated periodically.

Add new referrals including those from volunteer or community work from time to time.

10. Postgraduates can ask faculty members

Did you recently graduate and need a reference? Then ask as many faculty members to share about your academic excellence. If you participated in activities that align with the job that you are applying for then it will work to your advantage.