If you are applying for a job, you may be asked to provide references. A reference sample for job is a useful tool to help you create a professional reference list. In this article, we will provide tips on how to create a reference sample for job and provide examples that you can edit as needed.
Tips for Creating a Reference Sample For Job
Creating a reference sample for job can be a daunting task, but it is important to have one ready when applying for jobs. Here are some tips to help you create a professional reference sample for job:
1. Professional Reference List
A professional reference list should include individuals who can attest to your skills and work experience. This can include former employers, colleagues, or professors. When selecting someone for your reference list, make sure they know you well and can speak to your strengths.
Dear [Name],
I am writing to ask if you would be willing to serve as a professional reference for me as I apply for new job opportunities. You were my supervisor at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date], and I believe that your insight into my work ethic and abilities would be valuable to potential employers.
If you are willing to serve as a reference, please let me know what contact information you would like me to include (e.g. email address, phone number, etc.). Additionally, please let me know if there is anything specific that you would like me to highlight when speaking with potential employers.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
2. Ask Permission
Before adding someone to your reference list, ask for their permission first. This will ensure that they are prepared to receive calls or emails from potential employers and can speak positively about your qualifications.
Dear [Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out because I am currently applying for new job opportunities and would like to include you on my reference list. I believe that your experience working with me would be valuable to potential employers.
Before adding you to my reference list, I wanted to make sure that you are comfortable with serving as a reference for me. Please let me know if you are able to provide a positive reference and if there is any additional information that you would like me to provide.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
3. Include Contact Information
When creating your reference sample for job, be sure to include the contact information for each of your references. This should include their name, title, company, phone number, and email address. This will make it easy for potential employers to contact your references.
Dear [Name],
Thank you for agreeing to serve as a reference for me as I apply for new job opportunities. I have included your contact information below:
Name: [Name]
Title: [Title]
Company: [Company Name]
Phone: [Phone Number]
Email: [Email Address]
Please let me know if there is anything else that you need from me, or if there is anything specific that you would like me to highlight when speaking with potential employers.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
4. Customize Your List
Make sure to customize your reference list for each job that you apply for. This means selecting references who have experience in the specific industry or field that you are applying to. Tailoring your reference list will show potential employers that you have put thought and effort into your application.
Dear [Name],
I wanted to thank you again for serving as a reference for me as I apply for new job opportunities. I am currently applying for a position in [Industry/Field], and I believe that your experience in this field would be valuable to potential employers.
When speaking with potential employers, I plan to highlight the work that I did while working with you at [Company Name] and how it has prepared me for this new opportunity. If there is anything else that you would like me to highlight, please let me know.
Thank you again for your time and for serving as a reference for me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
5. Follow Up
Make sure to follow up with your references after you have applied for a job. Let them know that you have included them on your reference list and that they may receive calls or emails from potential employers. This will also give them a chance to prepare for any questions that they may be asked.
Dear [Name],
I wanted to reach out and let you know that I have included you on my reference list as I apply for new job opportunities. I believe that your experience working with me would be valuable to potential employers.
If you receive any calls or emails from potential employers, please let me know. Additionally, if there is anything specific that you would like me to highlight when speaking with potential employers, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Thank you again for serving as a reference for me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
6. Thank You Note
After a potential employer contacts your references, make sure to follow up with a thank you note. This will show them that you appreciate their time and effort in providing a positive reference for you. It will also keep you top of mind for future opportunities.
Dear [Name],
I wanted to reach out and thank you for serving as a reference for me as I applied for new job opportunities. I truly appreciate the time and effort that you put into providing a positive reference for me.
Thanks to your positive recommendation, I was offered the position at [Company Name], and I am excited to start this new opportunity. I couldn’t have done it without your support.
Thank you again for everything.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my reference sample for job?
Your reference sample for job should include a list of individuals who can attest to your skills and work experience. For each reference, include their name, title, company, phone number, and email address.
How do I ask someone to serve as a reference for me?
When asking someone to serve as a reference for you, be polite and professional. Explain that you are applying for new job opportunities and believe that their experience working with you would be valuable to potential employers. Ask for their permission before adding them to your reference list, and provide them with your contact information in case they have any questions.
How many references should I include in my reference sample for job?
Most employers ask for three references, but it’s a good idea to have at least four or five individuals on your reference list. This will give potential employers a variety of perspectives on your qualifications and work experience.
What should I do if a potential employer contacts my references?
If a potential employer contacts your references, follow up with them and thank them for their time and effort in providing a positive reference for you. Make sure to keep them updated on the status of your job search and let them know if you receive any offers.
Can I use a coworker as a reference?
Yes, you can use a coworker as a reference as long as they can speak positively about your skills and work experience. However, it’s usually better to have a supervisor or manager as a reference since they have more authority and can provide a more detailed assessment of your qualifications.
Should I include my reference list in my job application?
No, you should not include your reference list in your job application unless the employer specifically asks for it. Instead, include a statement that says “References available upon request.” This will give you more control over who sees your reference list and when they see it.
Conclusion
Creating a reference sample for job can seem overwhelming, but it’s an important part of the job application process. Use the tips and examples provided in this article to help you create a professional reference list that will impress potential employers. Remember to customize your list for each job that you apply for and follow up with your references to thank them for their time and effort.