When applying for a job, it’s essential to have a list of professional references. Employers often request them as part of the hiring process to verify your work history and qualifications. In this article, we will provide tips for creating a list of professional references and examples that you can use as a guide. You can find the examples below and edit them as needed to fit your specific needs.
Tips for Creating a List of Professional References
Creating a list of professional references can be simple if you follow these tips:
1. Choose the Right People
Select people who have worked with you in a professional capacity and can attest to your skills and strengths. Former managers, supervisors, and colleagues are excellent choices for references. Make sure to ask for their permission first before adding them to your list.
2. Ask for Their Contact Information
When asking someone to be a reference, make sure to request their current contact information, including their name, job title, company, phone number, and email address. This information will be necessary for the hiring manager to contact them.
3. Customize Your List
When creating your list of professional references, tailor it to the job you are applying for. Consider the skills and experience required for the position and choose references who can speak to those specific areas.
4. Keep Your List Updated
Regularly update your list of professional references with current contact information and any changes in their job title or employment status. It’s also a good idea to check in with them periodically to ensure they are still willing to serve as a reference.
5. Thank Your References
Once you have secured your professional references, make sure to thank them for their time and support. A simple email or handwritten note can go a long way in maintaining positive relationships and future opportunities.
Examples of List of Professional References
Example 1: References for Sales Manager Position
Dear Mr. Smith,
It was a pleasure to work with you at ABC Company, and I appreciate your willingness to be a reference for me. I am currently applying for a Sales Manager position at XYZ Company and have included your contact information in my list of professional references. Your insights into my leadership and sales skills will be invaluable to this potential employer.
Thank you again for your time and support. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Example 2: References for Marketing Coordinator Position
Dear Ms. Johnson,
Thank you for agreeing to be a reference as I apply for a Marketing Coordinator position at LMN Corporation. I remember our collaboration on the successful social media campaign for ABC Company, and I am confident that your endorsement of my skills will help me secure this position.
I appreciate your time and support and will keep you updated on the outcome of my application.
Best regards,
John Smith
Example 3: References for Executive Assistant Position
Dear Mr. Brown,
Thank you for being a reference for me as I apply for an Executive Assistant position at DEF Corporation. Your recommendation of my organizational and communication skills will be valuable to this potential employer.
Please let me know if there are any specific areas that you would like me to highlight in my application, and I will be happy to provide additional information.
Thank you again for your support.
Sincerely,
Janet Lee
Example 4: References for IT Manager Position
Dear Ms. Davis,
Thank you for agreeing to be a reference as I apply for an IT Manager position at GHI Corporation. I appreciate your insight into my technical skills and leadership abilities, and I am confident that your endorsement will help me secure this position.
Please let me know if there are any specific areas that you would like me to address in my application.
Thank you again for your support.
Best regards,
Tom Johnson
Example 5: References for Human Resources Coordinator Position
Dear Mr. Green,
Thank you for being a reference for me as I apply for a Human Resources Coordinator position at JKL Corporation. Your endorsement of my interpersonal and communication skills will be invaluable to this potential employer.
Please let me know if there are any specific areas that you would like me to highlight in my application, and I will be happy to provide additional information.
Thank you again for your support.
Sincerely,
Samantha Brown
Example 6: References for Project Manager Position
Dear Ms. White,
Thank you for agreeing to serve as a reference as I apply for a Project Manager position at MNO Corporation. I remember our collaboration on the successful product launch for PQR Company, and I am confident that your endorsement of my skills will help me secure this position.
Please let me know if there are any specific areas that you would like me to address in my application.
Thank you again for your support.
Best regards,
Mike Davis
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my list of professional references?
Your list of professional references should include the names, job titles, companies, phone numbers, and email addresses of individuals who can speak to your work history, skills, and qualifications. Choose people who have worked with you in a professional capacity and have positive things to say about your abilities.
How many professional references should I include?
Most employers will ask for three to five professional references, but be sure to check the job posting or application instructions to see if they have a specific requirement. Choose references who can speak to your most relevant skills and experience for the position you are applying for.
Should I ask permission before adding someone to my list of professional references?
Yes, it’s essential to ask for someone’s permission before adding them to your list of professional references. Not everyone may be willing or able to serve as a reference, and you don’t want to put anyone in an awkward position by including them without their knowledge.
Can family members or friends be included as professional references?
It’s best to avoid including family members or friends as professional references, as they may not have the necessary professional experience or objectivity to provide an accurate assessment of your skills and qualifications.
Do all employers require a list of professional references?
While not all employers require a list of professional references, many do as part of the hiring process. It’s best to have a list prepared in advance so that you can provide it quickly if requested.
Should I notify my references when I provide their information to a potential employer?
Yes, it’s a good idea to notify your references when you provide their information to a potential employer. This gives them a heads up that they may be contacted and allows them to prepare to provide a positive endorsement of your skills and experience.
Conclusion
Having a list of professional references is essential when applying for a job. By following the tips we provided and using the examples as a guide, you can create a strong list of references that will help you stand out to potential employers. Remember to choose the right people, customize your list, and keep it updated. Thank your references for their time and support and keep in touch with them for future opportunities.