Here is how you should provide references on a job application

Years ago, people used to mention their professional references in their resumes itself. Today, it is common practice for employers to wait until the initial screening stage is over before asking applicants for their references. Sometimes, employers may request that you include your job references alongside your job application.

Usually, a potential employer will contact the references you provide at the end of the hiring process. It is important that you mention all the right people in your job references.

Whom should you pick as a job reference?

It is better to select people from your professional network as your job references because these individuals can give a good referral about your capacity as a professional. Here are some examples of references you can go for:

Previous employers

There’s nothing better than your previous employer endorsing you as a great worker for your future employer. This is why it is important not to burn all your bridges when you leave a job. Stay in touch with your managers and supervisors from your past jobs to get excellent referrals.

Former teachers/ professors

Your educators are great references because not only can they vouch for your capacity for learning new things, but they can also give an assessment of who you are as a person. They can give a good understanding of your soft skills to a potential employer.

Your current employer

If you are on the job hunt while employed, your current employer is one of the best references you can use for your job application. However, if you are not prepared to tell your boss that you are planning to leave just yet, you will have to go for someone else.

Former coworkers

Most employers are concerned about attracting good workers who are also excellent team players. Your previous coworkers are the best people to vouch for your skills as an employee and your ability to collaborate with a team.

How many references must you include with your job application?

The employer will usually request a specific number of references from you when you get to that stage of the hiring process. Generally, applicants are expected to provide two or three references with their job applications. But some employers may demand more references.

It is better to mention two or three references in your job application first. If the employer requests more references, you can provide those later. When you add references to your job application, be sure to select a reference each from among your educators, previous employers, and former colleagues to show that you have people from all areas of your network willing to speak for you.

What not to do when you add references to a job application

There are a few mistakes you must avoid when you list your references on a job application:

Adding fake references

Although it is tempting to ask your best friend to play the part of a previous employer you have never had, you must refrain from fabricating references. A potential employer will definitely verify your references and it would come out looking bad for you.

Not proofreading the contact details

What use is an excellent reference if you have mistyped their contact details on your job application? Ensure that the recruiter can reach your references hassle-free. Always double-check the name spellings, email addresses, and telephone numbers before you send in your job application.

Failing to inform your references

Always let your references know that you have used them for a job application. You don’t want them to be caught off guard when an employer calls them. Also, it is important to get the consent of your references to include their details in your job application.