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Now that your resume is done, you will be distributing it to potential employers who may call any day now. When they call they will likely want to see you as soon as possible for an interview. When you go to the interview you should be prepared with references. Almost all employers check references and it helps if you have information prepared in advance to take to the interview.

Who can be a Reference?

Generally references can fall into two categories; business and personal. It is a good idea to have a combination of both.

A BUSINESS reference could be from former supervisors, co-workers, customers, or contacts within your work environment. If you do any volunteer work, these would also be excellent references.

A PERSONAL reference could be anyone you know socially, such as a friend, neighbor, affiliate through membership in a church, club, association, or school contacts. Do NOT include family members!

Types of References

There are two types of references:written letters of reference and verbal references.

If you will be taking letters of reference to the interview, make sure that you save your original and provide a copy to the interviewer.

If you are using verbal references, you will want to type up a "REFERENCE PAGE" to take to the interview. On this page you will indicate your name and the title "REFERENCES" at the top of the page. You will then list your references by name, title, telephone number, and also indicate how long you have known them.

Decide who you want as References

You can be selective in terms of who you want as your references. It is important to ensure that you use references who will give you a positive recommendation.

Ask if it is okay to use their name as a Reference

Prior to using anyone's name as a reference, check with that person to make sure it is okay with them first. By doing this, you ensure that the person is consenting and is PREPARED for calls from the interviewer.