Permission

Always ask for permission before listing anyone as a reference. If a potential reference hesitates or seems uncomfortable in granting your request, take the hint and ask someone else.

Suitability

Ideally, your references should: (1) Like you! (2) Be articulate. (3) Know you well.  The more recent and/or long-lasting the relationship, the better.

Relevance

Include both work-related and educational references if possible. Either of these can give an assessment of your behaviour and personality, so a separate "character" reference is not necessary unless specifically requested.

Choice

A reference can be a manager, supervisor, co-worker, someone you supervised or taught, professor, teacher, fellow student, customer/client, supplier, competitor, or community member with whom you are familiar. Close friends and relatives are generally not acceptable choices.

Preparation

Help your references prepare for a phone call from an employer.  Tell them which job(s) you are applying for, and point out how your qualifications match the requirements of the position(s).  Always give your references an updated copy of your resume.  If you’re applying for a variety of jobs using a variety of resumes, provide a copy of the appropriate version(s) of your resume. The more information you give your references, the better equipped they’ll be to speak on your behalf.

Information

For each reference, list the person’s name, title, organization, address, and correct phone number (call the number yourself to make sure it’s correct).  It is also helpful to state how long the person has known you, and in what capacity.  Print this information along with your name on a separate piece of paper and take several copies to every job interview you attend.

Appreciation

 Thank your references – especially after being hired.  Even if an employer never called them, they were willing to assist in your search for employment, so show your appreciation in a separate phone call, letter, e-mail message, or scheduled visit.