A professional reference can provide firsthand insights into who you are and what you are all about. Therefore, you need to carefully select your references — or you could miss out on an opportunity to secure your dream job.
Your reference list plays an important role in the hiring process, and it should include people who can attest to your experience and skills and share insights into your ability to perform a specific job. However, determining who to include on your reference list can be difficult. But if you dedicate time and resources to select the right people for your list, you can move one step closer to landing your dream job.
Now, let’s examine four people to include on your reference list:
1. Past Manager
A past manager can explain your responsibilities associated with a prior role, along with how you handled everyday work challenges. Plus, this manager can share information about your work ethic and how you helped an organization accomplish its goals.
If you had a good rapport with a particular manager at a previous job, ask him or her to serve as a reference. In doing so, you can add a strong reference who can put you in a position to secure your ideal job.
2. Work Colleague
A work colleague can provide details about how you contribute to a successful team. He or she can describe instances in which you worked well with others and delivered meaningful contributions to a group assignment or project. Furthermore, a work colleague can offer insights into times when you helped others achieve their desired results.
If you believe a current work colleague can provide a great reference, request permission to include him or her on your reference list. Or, you can always reach out to past work colleagues to see if they can serve as references.
3. Teacher
A teacher can highlight your willingness to ask questions and learn as much as possible in the classroom. This professional can also explain how you completed coursework both individually and as part of a group. Moreover, a teacher can share examples of how you used your creativity to produce exceptional classwork.
You can choose a teacher from high school or college as a reference. Of course, a teacher who taught you skills related to a particular job role may prove to be the best choice on your reference list.
4. Mentor
A mentor can provide information about how you sought help in your quest to accomplish your long-term aspirations. He or she can explain how you prioritize continuous learning and improvement — and never take the easy way out. In addition, a mentor can discuss how you’ve grown as a person and how you expect the best results from yourself and others.
Mentors can be coaches, academic advisors, and others who helped you enhance your existing skills or develop new ones. They helped you become who you are today, and as such, can provide outstanding references.
Select Techneeds to Help You Find Your Dream Job
At Techneeds, we can help you identify and land your dream job. To learn more, please call us today at 800-346-8810.