Wondering how to request for a reference? Read to find out how you can request a reference and the top 5 people you should include.
In recent years, many people have often been advised against adding referees to CVs. Some say it is an outdated practice, and referees should only be offered when requested. Now, I am not here to refute that. However, if done right, having referees on your CV can give you the competitive advantage you need.
Think of it like this. Having a referee is like having a witness in court. A judge will rely heavily on the testimony of witnesses when rendering their verdicts. If the witness has a credible alibi or proof for your case, the verdict will undoubtedly be in your favor.
A referee pretty much acts like a witness in your CV. They back up your credibility and expertise to your potential employer. It could make all the difference between you and other equally qualified candidates if you get a positive character review from a reputable and trustworthy source.
Therefore, you need to have referees that can vouch for your professionalism and commitment to your job. People who will root for you and help land your desired job. Nevertheless, finding the right people and how to request for a reference can be a daunting task. But don’t stress, we will guide you through the steps you need to take and help you win your case.
Let’s start with the following people whom you should add as referees to your CV.
1. Your current employer
Your current boss has the best perspective of your work ethic. If you are not going to include them, explain it. For example, you might not want your current employer to know that you are looking for another job. In this case, add someone else from your current job.
2. Your former employer
Your former employer can make a good referee. Having worked with you, they have insights into your professional life. Leaving a former boss out gives an impression that you don’t want prospective employers to contact them. Do you see how that can be suspicious? So, even if things ended badly, include their contact. In extreme circumstances, you should use a former colleague from that workplace.
3. Your supervisor
A supervisor works closely with you more than the CEO or HR. They pay attention to the quality of your work and the level of professionalism you exhibit. Hence, they make the cut for inclusion in your references list. Therefore, cultivate a positive relationship with them. Make sure they have nothing but good things to say about you. You can forego the bigger bosses as references and head straight for the supervisor. The point is to include someone who will leave no doubt about your level of competence.
4. Work colleague
Make friends at work. When you apply for a job, your coworkers can serve as reliable references on your resume. They are aware of your strengths as a team member and of the positive working relationship you share with them. So the next time you walk past Janice from the IT department, say Hi and throw in a smile.
5. Academic teacher or professor
Are you looking for a job for the first time? You need not be concerned. In the absence of the above-mentioned individuals, your teacher or professor is more than capable of filling in. In your academic path, these experts have had the opportunity to meet and work with you. They are aware of your dedication to learning new things. As a result, they serve as good references. In addition, they can also reveal a lot about who you are as a student. It's an opportunity for you to demonstrate to a potential employer what kind of worker you'd be. So, make sure you're in their good graces.
How to request for reference
Now that we have covered who should be on your CV reference, how do you get them to be your reference?
First things first. You should never include someone's contact information on your CV without their permission. They will be taken by surprise if an employer asks for a reference because you have made them vulnerable to unsolicited contacts. Ultimately, they will be ill-equipped to discuss your achievements and credentials.
To avoid this, make sure to get permission from any possible references before giving out their contact information, especially on resumes that are made available to the public on the internet. After the heads-up, give them an update on what you are currently doing. Next, give them plenty of time to think about your request, study your resume, and review the job description. They may be required to send a letter, complete a questionnaire, or speak with a representative from human resources by phone. This will enable them to appropriately prepare and respond to any queries posed by the recruiting manager.
Takeaway
Professional references can make or break your case. There are no restrictions as to whom you can or can't put as your referee. However, you have to consider people who know you well and have your best interest at heart. People who will speak highly of your accomplishments, work ethic, character, and qualifications.
Now, I know you are thinking of how you are going to enlist your best friend, mom, uncle, dad, and brother. I hate to break it to you, but your parents, siblings, relatives, and friends generally aren’t the best reference. But if you worked with them, and they hold high-ranking positions, then by all means do not hesitate.
When starting off with your list, think of everyone in your network, then narrow it down based on the nature of the relationship, priority, ranking, and the post you are applying for, and the more recently you interacted or worked with the potential reference.
