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Letters of Reference

List of References

(Letters of Recommendation for graduate school click here) 

Employers want to speak to references who can attest to you as an employee, so current or previous supervisors/employers are best. Additionally, business acquaintances, professors, academic advisors, customers, and vendors can all make good references. If you volunteer, consider using leaders or other members of the organization as personal references.

Be prepared with a list of references complete with:

• Reference name and title
• Organization they work for
• Address (street, city, state, zip)
• Work phone
• Home phone (check with your reference first)
• A brief statement telling how they know you

Most employers and educational programs prefer work- or school-related references, rather than personal or character references. Good reference sources include people who you feel have a positive impression of your work in the workplace, classroom or on campus:

• Work supervisors
• Faculty
• Campus administrators or advisors
• Choose 3-5 references and have the list with you when you interview.
• Print the list on quality paper that matches the paper your resume and cover letter were printed on.
• Proofread!  Especially for proper spelling of names and appropriate titles and correct contact information.

Provide the reference person with a current resume. This will give them a broader view of your qualifications. Copies of typical job listing, or information on academic programs, in which you are interested will also help them identify the most relevant aspects of your background to highlight.  If you are asking for a reference for graduate school it would also be helpful for you to provide a draft of your personal statement.  If you both have the time, sit down with the person providing the reference to discuss your current and future goals.  If, at an interview, the interviewer indicates that s/he will be contacting your references, let your references know to expect her/his call.

Creating a Reference Page

You may also ask references for letters of recommendation.  Give plenty of advance notice and a stamped envelope if the letter needs to be mailed. Also provide them with any points you would like made. The easier for them, the better!