Updated 1 November 2023
Congratulations on entering the next stage of the recruitment process! But here comes the question: How do you find a suitable referee? Don't worry! This article will comprehensively outline the methods, suitable candidates, and considerations for finding a referee.
Who can you ask?
If you can't think of anyone suitable to be your referee, don't worry! It's completely normal, especially if you're just starting out in your career or don't have many connections. In fact, you still have many options to choose from!
A Professional/Employment Reference
When employers/recruiters ask for referees, they usually mean professional referees. These referees should be people you have worked with in the past because they are the optimal people to comment on your work experience, professional ethics, abilities, and performance.
- Former Supervisors/Managers
- This includes supervisors from summer jobs, part-time positions, or internships.
- Former HR Personnel
- These are the human resources personnel responsible for hiring you.
- Former or Current Colleagues
- They can be considered as "character references" (see below). It's usually recommended to choose someone in a slightly higher position than yours because they have experience assigning work to you or working with you.
Character References
If you don't have enough professional referees, character references are also a good option because they can reflect your attitude and work abilities.
- University professors/instructors/academic advisors/personal tutors
- They often understand your work attitude, personality, professional ethics, and career aspirations from your interactions in school. They are definitely good choices.
- Other people you can contact include
- Typically have less direct interactions with you than a tutor, but if you’ve done particularly well in a subject or have an established rapport, lecturers are also a good shout.
- Academic Advisors
- Are more similar to personal mentors and will likely have a good idea of your personality, work ethic and career aspirations.
- Other people you can contact include
- Coaches, volunteer service leaders, student organization presidents, and even older family friends!
Choosing Suitable Candidates
Without a doubt, you should choose someone with whom you have a good relationship as your referee. They should be satisfied with your abilities and have a certain understanding of your personality. It's even better if they are relevant to the industry you are applying to!
Putting in Your Request
When asking someone to be your referee, sending an email is usually the best way - it avoids the awkwardness of a phone call, and the other person can easily decline politely, making it easier for both parties. However, if you can only reach your potential referee through a phone call, you can try communicating through messages.
- Briefly explain the position you are applying for.
- Explain why you think they are a suitable candidate for a referee.
- Keep them updated on your recent situation, preferably by attaching your CV for their reference.
Example Message
Hi [Name], I hope you are well. I am emailing as I am currently applying for a [Position Name] with [Company Name] and have reached the next stages of the interview process. I would like to ask if you would be willing to be my reference. Professional Reference: As my manager while working at [Company Name], I believe you have a good understanding of my work ethic and demonstrated abilities in [Field/Industry]. Academic Reference: As my [Tutor/Lecturer] for [Subject Name], I believe you have a good understanding of my skills and knowledge in [Field/Subject] and leadership capabilities while being able to work well in a team. Personal Mentor: As my [Coach/Camp Supervisor], I believe you have a good understanding of my work ethic, leadership and teamwork capabilities that I could translate to this role. I would need to provide your name and best contact details and the interviewer may be in touch to ask you about my experience, skills and work ethic. Of course I also understand if you are currently too busy with other commitments and will be unable to be a reference at this time. I have attached my resume for your reference – please let me know if you need any more information. Thank you for your time and consideration. |
What to Do Next?
- Give them enough time to respond: Request your supervisor to be your referee well in advance before leaving each position/internship.
- Prepare a backup plan: Invite several suitable candidates to be your referees.
- Express gratitude: Regardless of whether the invited person agrees to be your referee, you must thank them for taking the time to consider it.
- Inform about the latest progress: Let your referees know about the progress of your job application so that they can be prepared to receive a call from HR.
Finding referees is crucial in the job application process. Hope you will feel more confident about finding referees after reading this article. Want to know more interview/job application tips? GradConnection has many articles to help you out!