References

[moser]

Who do you ask to be a reference when you have a job interview? How many references to employers generally want?

Who shouldn't you ask to be a reference?

[ism]

Have 3 ready. They must be notified that they may be contacted in reference to you. On the resume, you can just say references are available, but you must be able to provide them during interviews.

At least 2 should be former employers, either direct supervisors or higher. 1 may be a peer familiar with your work -- former coworkers and project teammates. Supervisors at voluntary work may substitute for the peer. Basically, need a few people to say you're a good underling, and having one vouch for your team ethic isn't quite as good, but usable.

If you are still in high school, then teachers, neighbors, family friends, mentors, may be used. In college, if you have done an undergraduate project, the advisor may be used.

If you did contract work/consulting only, then clients can be used.

Don't use anyone who would say something bad. If you're on good enough terms to ask them for permission to be used as a reference, I assume they'd only have good things to say.

[SynRG]

Dependent on your industry your college professors can be used as well (like, if you're applying for a job straight out of school). Like if your going into journalism use your journalism prof.. going into government use your Poli Sci prof, etc. Obviously, make sure it was a class you did real good in and one where the prof at least knows your name :wink:

Other than that.. pretty much what ism said. :biggrin: