References can serve as a final confirmation of your skills and abilities and verification of positive on-the-job performance. References are generally requested and checked after a successful interview and just before offering you a position. A potential employer may request a list of 3-5 people you have worked with as references, known as your “reference list.”
Check out our Compiling a Strong Reference List video and review the below steps to help you get started on selecting and preparing your references list.
Who Should Serve as a Reference?
- References can be selected from a part-time or full-time job, internship, volunteer or paid work experience. They should be individuals who know your performance, skills and abilities on the job.
- References might include current or former supervisors, faculty mentors, campus staff or advisers, coaches or anyone in a professional position. References should NOT be family, friends or peers.
- Choose people who have known you for a minimum of three months, though the longer they have known and worked with you the better.
Preparing Your References
- Always ask permission from your references BEFORE you use their names. Ask if they are willing to provide a strong, supportive recommendation and available during your critical search time.
- Make sure you have current contact information (i.e., name, position, organization, email and phone number).
- Prepare them in advance by sharing your current resume or CV, cover letter and the position description.
When Submitting References
- Bring at least one copy of your reference list to your interview. Some employers may ask for it before the interview.
- If an employer does not ask by the end of the interview, you should ask them if they would like reference information.
- Maintain consistency by formatting your reference list to have the same font and paper choices similar to those used for your resume and cover letter.
When a Letter of Recommendation is Requested
- Some applications may require a letter of recommendation (i.e., graduate school, fellowships, scholarships, jobs and/or internship programs like the Washington Program and UC Center Sacramento).
- Follow the aforementioned process to identify potential people who can write you a letter of recommendation.
- Formally ask your references via phone, email or in-person meeting with ample time to allow them to write a letter.
- There are various levels of approval needed in order for faculty and staff to write offical letters of recommendation on behalf of UC Davis. Be sure to ask for letters of recommendation at least 6-8 weeks in advance.
Additional Considerations
- Aside from speaking about your performance, skills and abilities, references may also be asked about your interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, communication style, conflict resolution capacity, decision-making and whether you have a clear understanding of your field of study or a specific type of work.
- Any inconsistencies between what you say about yourself in an interview and a reference's responses could eliminate you from consideration for a position.
- Be sure to thank your references after the selection process is complete; it is always best to maintain a strong, ongoing and professional relationship.
Preparing a Reference List
Format for References
[Name]
[Relationship to you]
[Current title]
[Current employer]
[Phone number]
[Email address]
Sample Reference
Aggie Gunrock
Current Supervisor
Manager
UC Davis Stores
(530) 752-1011
agunrock@ucdavis.edu