What is a Reference?

Answer:
A reference is someone who either knows you

well personally, or in a work setting. Potential employers usually ask for references before they will hire someone. These references should be able to explain your job skills and qualifications with the potential employer.

The way in which a reference is contacted depends on the employer. Some employers want formal letters of recommendation from a reference, either on their form or on the reference's letterhead. Others require a list of references, so that they can contact the references themselves, usually either by phone or email. Some employers will ask both for personal references as well as professional ones.

Within a resume it's best to put "References available upon request". If the interviewer asks for references be sure to have at least three contacts that know or are expecting some form of communication from your future employer.


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