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Gathering Professional References - Student Guide

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GATHERING PROFESSIONAL b!" o j e h REFERENCES t "I got When to ask for a reference

When you start searching for a job!

This way, you can have a list of references ready for an employer. If you need a letter of reference, ask the person as soon as possible, so they do not feel rushed.

College professors, coaches, or other advisors (especially if you're a recent college graduate or don't have a lengthy work history)

A former employer (the person who hired and paid you)

Former supervisor (this person may have trained you, overseen

Best choices for a reference

your work, provided you with role instruction or direction, dictated your day-to-day tasks, etc.)

Former coworkers

Clients (this could be something you do on your own, such as babysitting, dog walk, house-sit, etc. Or, it could be people to who you provide your professional services like landscaping work, dog grooming, etc.)

Volunteer organization leaders An excellent way to ask someone to be a reference is either by calling them or sending an email. Ask if they think they know you and/or your work well enough to speak about it and if they feel comfortable doing so. By asking ahead of time, you allow them to turn it down if they don't believe they can or don't have the time to speak to someone.

When someone agrees to be a reference, give them all the information they might need to provide you with a positive

How to ask for a reference

reference:

Provide them with an updated resume.

Tell them what kinds of jobs you are looking at, so they know what skills and experiences of yours they should highlight.

If you know a particular employer will contact your references, provide your references with information about the job and the employer.

If you need a letter of reference for a particular job, tell your reference all the necessary information about where to submit the letter and when the deadline is.


GATHERING PROFESSIONAL b!" o j e h REFERENCES t "I got When you apply for jobs or go to an interview, have a copy of at least three references with you. When you list the references on their own page (not in your resume!), you should include:

How to list references for a job

Reference Name, Reference Relationship

Company Name

Company Address

Reference Phone Number

Reference Email

Keep your references up to date (and thank them)

Let your references know where your job search stands. Also, tell them who might be calling them for a reference.

When you get a new job, don't forget to send a thank you letter to those who provided you with a reference.

Even if you don't get hired right away, take the time to follow up with your references. They'll appreciate being informed of your status.

Maintain your reference network with periodic phone calls,

Maintain your reference network

emails, LinkedIn messages, or notes to get and give updates.

This is an important way to keep them updated on your life and future job goals.

In addition, if you are fresh in their minds, they will be more likely to give you more specific and more positive recommendations in the future.

Want more advice? Schedule an appointment with your Promise Coach! And check out the latest job and internship opportunities at liu.edu/handshake


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