References are an important part of the hiring process. They help your prospective employer better understand you, the skills you offer, and what working alongside you will be like.

Being asked to provide a reference is a great sign that an organization likes you! However, it is not a guarantee that you have the job. So, to help you not fumble at the finish line, we’ve gathered some tips to ensure your reference lands you your dream role!

References 101

First off, what is a reference? A reference is a way for someone to confirm your education, skills, professional background, duties, and/or aptitudes, often with the intention that a good reference will confirm your suitability for an opportunity. References are not only used for hiring purposes, but also for some educational programs and volunteer roles.

While references most commonly refer to when a supervisor gives a reference on behalf of a subordinate, there are many different types of references including a:

  • subordinate giving a reference for a supervisor
  • coworker giving a reference for another coworker
  • client giving a reference for a company and/or worker

References are often done over the phone with predetermined questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time when [candidate name] managed a problem”, “Is [candidate name] punctual”, or “Please explain your working relationship with [candidate name]”). However, references can also be given in the form of a generic letter, an email, or completing an online form.

Consequently, references come in all shapes and forms!

Asking for a reference

Before you ask for a reference be sure that:

  • you have a good relationship with your reference (e.g., they view you as a good worker)
  • they worked closely with you (e.g., they can give specific examples of your work)
  • they are available and willing to be your reference (refer to email template below)
  • they would be a good reference (e.g., they speak clearly and concisely)

Once you’ve decided who you want as your reference(s), ask them! If you work with the person currently, a phone call or asking in-person can be good. However, email is a failsafe method. This way you can attach your resume, cover letter, and the job posting, and you both have a written record of the request.

Here is a template email you can use. Of course, depending on your situation, adjust the wording as needed.

Hello [REFERENCE NAME],

I hope you are doing well!

I am emailing because I am being considered for [role] at [company]. I have successfully completed the interview stage of the hiring process and am being asked to provide 2 references. I would love it if you can be a reference for me and speak on my time at [company name you worked at together] from [date range] as a [role you held]. Specifically, it would be great if you could highlight [areas you want highlighted (e.g., punctuality, programming skills, leadership abilities, a specific project you worked on, etc.)].

I have attached to this email my current resume, cover letter, and the job description for the role I applied to for your reference.

[Specify the reference type and their communication preference (e.g., “The reference for this role will be over the phone in the following 2 weeks with a member of the hiring team. If this works for you, can you confirm which number(s) and email address(es) I am able to provide the hiring team and what your availability is to be contacted?”)]

Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you!

Cheers,

[YOUR NAME]

[YOUR NUMBER]

General reference tips

  1. Don’t put your reference’s contact information or the wording “References available upon request” on your resume. Instead, wait until after the interview when asked to provide them. You don’t want the hiring team to call your reference without you first giving them a heads-up.
  2. Never give someone’s contact information to someone without first gaining their consent first.
  3. Only ask for a reference from your current employer if you have a supportive workplace and manager. While ideally, all managers should be happy to give references for their current employees, you want to be cautious if your manager may be upset with your intent to leave, and therefore intentionally or unintentionally give you a poor reference. If you decide to stay with your current organization, it may impact your long-term job prospects there.
  4. Don’t lie or be dishonest with your references (e.g., have a friend pretend to be your manager). While this should be an obvious thing to avoid, it’s an important one.

Final thoughts

References can make or break your hiring journey. Plus, they can be stressful because you’re putting your trust in someone else. However, if you follow the tips above, hopefully, your reference will follow through and give you the great recommendation you deserve!

Julia Halabourda is an experienced Burnaby art and recreation programmer, educator (focus in the fine arts and theatre), and nonprofit writer. She has her Bachelor of General Studies from SFU’s Faculty of Education with Minors in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Psychology, and Social Justice in Education. She also has her Nonprofit Management Associate’s Certificate from BCIT. Julia has been writing with Charity Village since August 2020 and her past articles can be accessed here. Julia can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-halabourda/.