When it comes to landing your dream job, having strong professional references can make all the difference. Employers often rely on references to validate your qualifications, skills, and work ethic. 

To ensure you make a positive impression, the professionals at Labor Solutions say it’s essential to carefully select and prepare your references. 

Best Practices

Here are some best practices for managing professional references effectively.

  • Choose the Right People: Select individuals who can speak knowledgeably about your skills, accomplishments, and character. Ideally, your references should be former supervisors, colleagues, or clients who have worked closely with you and can provide specific examples of your work performance.
  • Obtain Permission: Before listing someone as a reference, always ask for their permission first. Reach out to each potential reference individually to explain why you are seeking their endorsement and confirm their willingness to serve as a reference for you, then you can continue your job search with Labor Solutions.
  • Keep Your References Informed: Provide your references with an updated copy of your resume, along with details about the positions you are applying for and the companies you are interviewing with. This will help them tailor their responses to align with the requirements of the role.
  • Provide Context: When providing contact information for your references, include their name, job title, company name, email address, and phone number. Additionally, consider providing a summary of your relationship with each reference and why you selected them.
  • Follow Up: After providing your references to a potential employer, follow up with them to confirm that they were contacted and inquire about their feedback. Express gratitude for their support and keep them updated on the status of your job search.
  • Maintain Relationships: Even if you do not land the job, continue to nurture your relationships with your references. Stay in touch periodically, share updates on your career progress, and offer to return the favor by serving as a reference for them in the future.

Great References to Follow

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your professional references effectively support your job search efforts and help you stand out as a top candidate. 

Remember that building and maintaining strong relationships with your references is an ongoing process that requires care and attention. Looking for a new job? Contact Labor Solutions to learn how we can help you.