Resume Writing ReferencesReferences are Critical to Getting HiredResume writing references are a critical yet often overlooked step in the application process. The employer is looking for verification of the skills and qualification in your resume. Should references be supplied with your Resume? In today's job market it standard not to include references on or with your resume. You can simply state, "References are available on request" or leave it out, either is acceptable.  Professional Tip: To show some creativity and confidence you could state, "Excellent References are Available on Request."This statement is much stronger, shows individuality and helps set your resume apart from those using the standard line. Who makes a Good Reference? The best reference is your direct supervisor, he or she is most familiar with your skills, qualifications and accomplishments in your current position. For confidentiality or other reasons, references from your current or last employer may not be practical. Don't worry about it, this is a common occurrence. Simply brainstorm other options, a list is provided below to get you started. Sources for Resume Writing References:
Keep in mind, the strongest reference is someone in a related field, a position of responsibility that can provide feedback on your work experience, professionalism and reliability. When should you be enlisting References? Soon as you start looking for a job. You do not want to be on your third interview and suddenly be faced with scrambling around trying to contact people to be a reference. Telling the employer half your references are out of town just won't fly. Do you need Permission to use a Reference? Yes, always contact the person before listing them, this is simply good business etiquette. It is also a good idea to let them know what types of positions you will be applying for and what the required qualifications are for those positions. Should you Verify What References Will Say About You? Absolutely! It is pointless to list someone as a reference who may give you a poor reference, you cannot afford to take the chance.  You need to be very careful in how you qualify your references. You can ask if they are comfortable in providing you with a reference. Next, you could describe the key qualifications for the jobs you are applying for and ask if they feel this would be good fit for you, if there is any hesitation, move on! Got a good plan for your resume writing references? Great, now follow through. Get your references together as soon as you start looking for a job, ask for permission and verify they are comfortable being your reference. Be Prepared ! Resume Writing References to Top 10 Interview Questions |