Choosing your References
You will want to line up at least three references before you start your job hunt. You will want them to be people who are reliable, and who will speak well of you. Try to get your references from three separate places of work or volunteering. You will want to have people who supervised you, who worked closely with you, and who know your abilities. This will highlight your different strengths to your employer. Keep your references as current as possible.
If you have three references prepared and your interviewer only asks for two, give the best two references.
Asking for References
As you leave any position, be sure to ask for references. Then, when you know that you are going on the job market again, call or email your references to confirm that they will act as a reference for you. You can even say, “I was hoping that you could speak to my leadership and organizational abilities” when you call to confirm your references.
It is polite to tell your references what types of positions you are applying for, so that they can tailor their answers accordingly.
Reference Letters
If you are asked for a letter of recommendation, ask your reference. See if there is a form that must accompany the letter. This letter has to be returned to you in an envelope that is signed across the seal, or sometimes mailed directly to the firm.
When you ask for a letter of recommendation, feel free to remind your reference of how long you have known each other, any achievements you accomplished that they can speak to, and what skills and traits you hope they can highlight to a caller.
Keeping Happy Referees
Once you have got your position, send a thank you note to your references to let them know what happened with the interview and how things are. Even if you did not get the position, a quick call to share the news and express anticipation for future ventures is polite. Your referees will be happy to refer you if you treat them with respect and share your news with them.