You have finished the interview, sent a thank-you note, and started imagining your first day—then the employer asks for three references. Who should you list? Will they call everyone? And what will those people be asked?
If you are wondering, “What are references?” the simple answer is that job references are people who can describe your skills, reliability, character, and past performance to a potential employer. They give hiring managers an outside perspective on whether you are likely to succeed in the role. Choosing the right people—and preparing them properly—can strengthen your application at a critical stage.
What are job references?
A job reference is someone who agrees to provide information about your qualifications for employment. References are usually contacted after one or more interviews, although some employers request their details on the initial application.
A reference is different from a referral. A referral introduces or recommends you for an opportunity, sometimes before you apply. A reference speaks with the employer during the evaluation process and helps confirm information about your background.
References may be asked about your job duties, communication style, dependability, accomplishments, ability to work with others, and response to feedback. Employers are generally looking for consistent evidence that supports what you said in your resume and interview.
Common types of references
Professional references
Professional references have directly observed you in a workplace or work-related setting. They are usually the best choice because they can provide specific examples of your performance.
- Current or former supervisors
- Managers from internships or volunteer positions
- Experienced coworkers or team leaders
- Clients, vendors, or professional partners
- Mentors who know your work well
Academic references
Academic references are appropriate for students, recent graduates, and applicants entering a new field. Professors, instructors, academic advisers, and research supervisors may be able to discuss your subject knowledge, work ethic, writing, problem-solving, or ability to meet deadlines.
Personal or character references
A character reference knows you personally rather than primarily through paid employment. This person might be a community leader, volunteer coordinator, coach, or longtime mentor. Character references can be useful when an employer requests one or when you have limited work experience. However, they are not usually a substitute for professional references if you have an established employment history.
Who should you ask to be a reference?
Choose people who know your abilities well enough to provide detailed, positive answers. A former direct supervisor who remembers your contributions is usually more valuable than a senior executive who barely knows you.
Consider how closely each person matches the position. For a management role, you might select someone who saw you lead a project or train colleagues. For a customer-facing job, a supervisor or client who can discuss your communication and problem-solving may be more relevant.
A strong reference should be:
- Familiar with your recent or relevant work
- Comfortable speaking positively about you
- Able to provide concrete examples
- Reliable and likely to respond promptly
- Professional when communicating by telephone or email
Avoid listing relatives, close friends, or people with whom you had unresolved workplace conflict unless the employer specifically requests a personal reference. You should also think carefully before using your current manager if that person does not know you are job searching.
How to ask someone to be your reference
Always ask permission before sharing a person’s contact information. A brief email or phone conversation is usually enough. Explain the role, why you believe the person would be a helpful reference, and whether they feel comfortable recommending you.
Give them an easy way to decline. Someone who sounds hesitant, does not remember your work clearly, or can only confirm your dates of employment may not be your strongest option.
Once they agree, provide your updated resume, the job description, the employer’s name, and a short reminder of relevant projects or accomplishments. Do not write a script for them. The goal is to refresh their memory so they can speak accurately and naturally.
For more practical ways to organize and present your contacts, review this guide to enhancing your job applications with effective references.
How employers use references
Employers use reference checks to verify information and reduce uncertainty before making a hiring decision. The process may be handled by a hiring manager, human resources employee, recruiter, or outside screening company.
During a typical conversation, the employer may confirm your position, responsibilities, dates of employment, and reason for leaving. They may also ask open-ended questions about your strengths, areas for development, teamwork, judgment, attendance, and eligibility for rehire.
Some former employers have policies limiting what they disclose. They may only confirm job title and employment dates. A short or neutral response does not automatically mean the reference is negative; it may simply reflect company policy.
Reference checks are not always identical. A small business owner may have an informal conversation, while a large organization may use a standardized form and score each answer. Employers may contact every person on your list, select only one or two, or speak with former employers not listed as references when legally permitted.
Your rights during employment screening
A direct reference call is not necessarily the same as a formal background report. If an employer uses a background reporting company to collect employment history or other background information, federal rules generally require the employer to provide notice and obtain your written permission. The employer must also follow specific procedures if information in that report could lead to an unfavorable decision. The Federal Trade Commission explains these rights during employer background checks.
Employment and privacy rules may differ by state and locality. Employers must also conduct reference checks and use the information without unlawful discrimination. If you believe inaccurate information or an improper screening process affected a decision, request details from the employer and consider obtaining advice relevant to your location.
Should references appear on your resume?
Usually, no. Keep a separate reference sheet with each person’s name, job title, organization, phone number, email address, and relationship to you. Use formatting that matches your resume and check every detail for accuracy.
You generally do not need to include “References available upon request” on your resume. Employers already understand that they can request them. Use that space for qualifications and achievements instead.
Prepare before submitting your list
Contact your references each time you reach the later stages of a job search. Confirm that their information is current and let them know which employer may call. After the process, thank them and share the outcome when appropriate.
Ultimately, the best references do more than confirm that you held a job. They help an employer understand how you work, what you contribute, and why you may be a strong choice. By selecting credible people, asking permission, and keeping them informed, you make it easier for them to support your application with confidence.
