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Looking for a new job and want to present yourself in the best possible light as a candidate to potential employers? Then it’s time to not only revamp your resume and cover letter, but to get your references revved up!

As a serious contender, you should have at least 3-5 references, all of whom are people that either have worked directly with you or know your integrity as a career professional. References can be anyone from former managers and close co-workers, to mentors and peers. Just be sure that you prepare them in advance whenever they may be potentially contacted by a company.

Here’s how to prepare your references during a job search, for the best results.

Develop a Reference Sheet

It’s considered “old school” now to include the words “References Available Upon Request” at the bottom of a resume. Instead, create a complete reference sheet to give to employers during the interview. List out your top 5 references in alphabetical order. Include each person’s full name and title, address, two telephone numbers and an email address. Be sure to get each references updated information and permission to include them at least once per year, when you do your annual resume updates.

Include Reference Letters

The sign of a professional still includes the use of several reference letters on company letterhead. Be sure to get this from all employers upon termination, from either a co-worker or your immediate supervisor. If you are fortunate, you can oftentimes write the recommendation letter yourself and have someone sign off on it. Or ask the HR department to furnish you with a reference letter that includes your job title, duties, achievements and dates of service.

Choose Your References Carefully

Your personal and professional references should not only be people who have first-hand knowledge of your work attributes, but also those who will make you look great to potential employers. Choose leaders in your past work environments, such as supervisors and executives. For personal references, choose people who have high standing in the community, such as college instructors, religious leaders, and professionals such as attorneys and doctors.

Call Your References

It’s always a good idea to keep in touch with your former references to make sure they are still available to comment on your qualities as a candidate. Additionally, you’ll want to get updates on their contact information, job titles and let them know when you are seriously searching for a new job. This ensures you have the best possible information and they will be ready when a call comes for their input.

Want to land a great job and develop best references? Consider all the advantages of working with a quality staffing agency like Davis Staffing Inc. by becoming part of our candidate team!