Resume Series Part 4 – References
Should you include references with your resume? There are actually times you should not; however, being prepared for the times you do need to provide references will take away some of the stress of the resume process.
Prior to creating a reference list, ask each person who you want to be a reference for permission. Then, ask how they wish to be contacted by potential employers. Email? Phone? Time of day? Discuss your job search goals and the specific employers who may be calling. It may also be beneficial to send your references a copy of your resume. Even if a person declines to be a reference, thank them and end the conversation positively.
Who should you ask to be your reference? If you are not able to list two former supervisors, other managers, or coworkers who know your work style, there are two other professional references you can provide:
Professionals from an organization, if you are a leader of the organization and
Personal, such as friends or teachers. But, do not list immediate family.
If giving an academic reference, such as teachers or professors, there is no need to send academic records, unless requested.
Your reference should be prepared to answer questions from an interviewer, for example:
How would you rate the candidate’s skills?
Can you describe the candidate’s communication abilities?
How well does the candidate work under pressure?
How well does the candidate take constructive criticism?
Is the candidate a team player?
Can you describe the candidate’s key strengths or weaknesses?
In general, you do not put your references in your resume. State either at the bottom of your resume or in your cover letter, “References furnished upon request.” But, if a job posting directly requests references, you should include in the resume, only if there is room. Otherwise, references should be on a separate document. Include three to four references that honestly know you and will speak objectively. Also, avoid using family members or prototypical people. Clergy, counselors, or social workers may not be viewed by a hiring manager as a reference who will give an unbiased opinion.
If references are on a separate page, use a clear heading. “References for Jane Doe”. List your reference’s full name, type of reference, address, occupation, phone number, email and time of day to contact on separate lines. Sometimes old references are relevant, but, review your list every six months, to keep it up-to-date.
In certain industries, it is common for applicants to include testimonials or letters of reference, however, not all industries or companies accept letters. If you choose to put testimonials or letters of reference in or with your resume, be sure to include a name and contact information for verification.
EHD Tech hopes our resume series proves to be beneficial in your job search and, if you need assistance in a career search, one of our staffing associates would be happy to speak with you.
Check out EHDStaffing.com or, feel free to contact us at:
EHD Tech, 1600 Westgate Circle, Suite 275, Brentwood, TN 37027
615-953-1907
