A very important decision in the job application process is who to use as professional references. What job seekers often forget is that their reference does more than just verify their past employment and performance in that position, they are often asked questions related to their character, skills, and attitude as well. .

You should select a professional reference that you have worked with at some point, and it is best if you have a strong professional camaraderie with this person. You should choose someone who you think enjoys spending time with you and working with you. Choose someone who you know will answer questions in an honest and positive way.

If there’s tension in your current work environment and you’re concerned that a co-worker or supervisor might offer negative information, then it’s best to leave them off your list of references.

Research shows that verbal references can have the most positive effect on a person’s job outcome, so when submitting contact information to a prospective employer, provide your references’ phone numbers, not their email addresses. It’s more personal to do a reference check over the phone, and hopefully the recruiter will be able to hear your reference’s enthusiasm and admiration for you and your skills.

Once you’ve selected your references, it’s a good idea to talk to your reference and let them know that you should be expecting a call about the position. It also helps if you give them information about the job you’re applying for, so they have an idea of ​​what kind of qualifications and characteristics to emphasize during the reference check. It is very unprofessional to ask your reference to answer a specific way to a reference question.

A reference should be prepared to answer questions such as “What can you tell me about this candidate?” “What is your professional relationship with the candidate?” “In what areas does this candidate need to improve?” “What are this candidate’s greatest strengths and achievements?” “How does this professional perform under pressure?” and other similar questions.

One of the best things you can do in your job search is to make sure you choose a great reference who will sing your praises and help you land the job! Choose references who have faith in and admire you and your work, and you should have nothing to worry about.