Value your references

An important, but often overlooked part of any resume is the list of references. Many people underestimate the importance of a good reference list, and end up losing contact with people that can potentially make or break your job application.

Keep the following points in mind when compiling your referee list:

Are you still in contact with the person?

This is why it is always important to remain in contact with your references, even if it’s only once every couple of months to “touch base”. Not only are they valuable networking outlets, they also provide important information about you to prospective employers.

Briefing your referee on what you’ve been doing since you worked with/for them is also helpful, as is reminding them, if necessary, of your achievements while there and how they are relevant to the job that you are applying for.

Most importantly, keeping in contact with your references will ensure that the contact details you include on your resume will be correct.

Have you notified them to expect a phone call?

It’s courteous to let your referees know when you have applied for a new job. Tell them what the job is, who the company or organisation is, and what the job description is, so they can be prepared on what the most relevant points about you they can mention.

and if you don’t know who to include…..

On the occasion that a reference does fall from your list there are plenty of other options, considering that you most likely will be steering clear of your current boss.  Other possibilities include:

• Lecturers
• Tutors
• Current colleagues
• Clients
• People who have worked for you
• Other people who you may interact with in a professional environment
• …not your Mum!

References are a vital part of any resume if you want prospective employers to be able to verify how brilliant you are. It doesn’t take much to keep in contact with your references, whether it’s a quick phone call to “say hi” or an email letting them know of your progress in the professional world.