When it comes to landing a job, having strong job references can make a significant impact on the hiring decision. In many cases, a potential employer may request references before or after an interview.
But how important are these references, and should you prepare for them beforehand? In this article, we’ll explore the role of job references in the hiring process and provide tips on how to prepare for them effectively.
Table of Contents
Should You Prepare Reference List for the Interview?
In general, it is always a good idea to prepare a reference list before an interview. Many employers will ask for a list of professional references during the application process, and it’s important to be prepared in case you are asked to provide one during or after the interview.
According to a survey conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the majority of employers (92%) carry out background checks. These checks are typically performed during pre-employment screening (87%), and some employers may repeat the checks on an annual basis (15%) or when an employee is promoted (10%).
By having a list of references ready, you can demonstrate your professionalism and preparedness to the employer. In this article, we’ll go over some tips on how to create a strong reference list and how to effectively utilize it during the interview process.
How To Create a Reference for Job Interviews?
Creating a reference list for job interviews is an important step in the job application process. Here are some tips on how to create a strong reference list:
- Choose the right references: Select professional references who can speak to your work experience, skills, and character. These can include former bosses, colleagues, or clients.
- Ask for permission: Contact your references and ask for their permission to be listed as a reference. Make sure to provide them with information about the job you are applying for so they can tailor their responses accordingly.
- Provide detailed information: When listing your references, include their name, job title, company, email address, and phone number. Also, include a brief description of your relationship with each reference.
- Keep your reference list up to date: As you progress in your career, update your reference list with new contacts who can speak to your recent work experience and skills.
- Format your reference list: Format your reference list in a professional and organized manner. Use a clear and concise font, and ensure that the list is easy to read and understand.
By following these tips, you can create a strong reference list that can help you land your next job.
What To Do If You’re Asked for References After an Interview?
If you’re asked for references after an interview, it’s a good sign that the employer is seriously considering you for the job. Here’s what you should do:
- Respond promptly: If the employer requests your references, respond as quickly as possible. This shows that you’re interested in the job and that you’re organized and efficient.
- Choose your references carefully: Make sure that your references are appropriate for the job you’re applying for. Select professional references who can speak to your work experience, skills, and character.
- Prepare your references: Contact your references and let them know that they may be contacted by the employer. Provide them with the job description and any other relevant information about the job so they can tailor their responses accordingly.
- Follow up with your references: After you’ve provided your references to the employer, follow up with your references to confirm that they have been contacted and to thank them for their support.
- Thank the employer: Finally, thank the employer for considering you for the job and let them know that you’ve provided your references.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your references are prepared and that you present yourself in the best possible light to the employer.
Tips for Choosing Good References
Choosing good references is a critical part of the job search process. Here are some tips for selecting the right references:
Choose relevant references: Select references who are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Ideally, they should be people who have worked with you in a professional capacity and who can speak to your skills and experience.
Choose people who know you well: Your references should be people who know you well and can speak to your strengths and weaknesses. They should be able to provide specific examples of your work and accomplishments.
Choose people who will give you a positive recommendation: Make sure that your references are people who will give you a positive recommendation. It’s important to ask them beforehand if they are comfortable providing a reference and if they feel they can provide a positive recommendation.
Choose people who are easy to contact: Your references should be people who are easy to contact and who will respond promptly to requests for information. Make sure that you have their up-to-date contact information, including their email address and phone number.
Consider different types of references: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of reference. Consider selecting references from different areas of your professional life, such as former managers, colleagues, clients, or professors.
By following these tips, you can choose the best possible references and increase your chances of landing your dream job.
Sample Reference List Sheet to Use as a Template
Here’s a sample reference list sheet that you can use as a template for your resume:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]Professional References
1. [Name of Reference]
[Title of Reference]
[Company Name]
[Phone Number of Reference]
[Email Address of Reference]2. [Name of Reference]
[Title of Reference]
[Company Name]
[Phone Number of Reference]
[Email Address of Reference]3. [Name of Reference]
[Title of Reference]
[Company Name]
[Phone Number of Reference]
[Email Address of Reference]Personal References
1. [Name of Reference]
[Relationship to Reference]
[Phone Number of Reference]
[Email Address of Reference]2. [Name of Reference]
[Relationship to Reference]
[Phone Number of Reference]
[Email Address of Reference]3. [Name of Reference]
[Relationship to Reference]
[Phone Number of Reference]
[Email Address of Reference]
Make sure to format your reference list in a professional and organized manner, with a clear and concise font. You can also customize the headings and categories to best suit your needs.
FAQ
What Does It Mean When They Ask for References After the Interview?
When an employer asks for references after an interview, it generally means that they are interested in hiring you and want to verify your qualifications and work experience. Providing strong references who can speak to your skills and work experience is an important part of the job application process and can help increase your chances of landing the job.
Related: Ace an Interview with the STAR Method
Should I Send References After the Interview?
If an employer has requested references after an interview, then you should definitely send them as soon as possible. Providing references is an important part of the job application process, and failing to do so in a timely manner can negatively impact your chances of getting the job. Make sure that your references are strong and relevant to the job, and provide the employer with the information they need to contact them.
How Many References to Provide for a Job Interview?
The number of references you should provide for a job interview typically depends on the employer’s request. In general, most employers will ask for three professional references. However, if they ask for a different number, make sure to provide the exact number of references requested. It’s important to choose references who can speak to your skills and experience, and who are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Make sure to obtain their permission before listing them as references and provide their accurate contact information.