By Abearica Online Editors · Published
Ask a potential job reference before sharing their contact details. Explain the role, check whether they are comfortable speaking about your work and give them room to decline. Build a short private reference list rather than copying names into every application.
The University of Minnesota's career guidance recommends getting permission before sharing a reference's contact information.2
Choose someone who knows the work
Minnesota recommends selecting references who can speak positively about your work ethic and skills.2
Write down what each person actually saw you do. Prefer a specific working relationship over an impressive title without direct knowledge. Ask whether they remember the project or responsibility you hope they can discuss. Do not suggest an achievement they did not witness or ask them to invent an answer.
UW Bothell's guidance suggests considering employers with whom you completed special projects or can describe your contribution.1
Confirm the details privately
Minnesota recommends asking references for their preferred contact methods and confirming the nature and length of your relationship.2
Check the spelling of their name and their current role. Keep the list in a private document rather than a public profile. Use Computing when planning how to organize and protect job-search files. Share only the information the reference agreed to provide and the application actually requests.
Send a useful briefing
Minnesota advises giving references relevant materials, including an updated resume, and keeping them informed about applications.2
Send a brief description of the role and the resume version you submitted. Mention the work you did together without scripting praise. If the employer asks for a letter instead of a call, check the instructions and deadline with the reference before committing on their behalf.
Keep job-change costs and income questions in Personal Finance, separate from the reference request. For general health reading during a transition, visit Health without adding private medical details to your reference briefing. Thank the person for their time and let them know when the application closes or your plans change. Reconfirm permission before reusing an old list for a later search.