When applying for a job, it is common for employers to ask for a list of professional references. These references are typically individuals who can provide insight into your work ethic, character, and skills. While the thought of gathering references may seem daunting, it is an important step in securing your dream job. Here is a guide on how to list three professional references.
Tips for Listing Three Professional References
Before you start listing your professional references, it’s important to know a few tips to make the process easier:
– Choose individuals who have worked with you in a professional capacity, such as previous supervisors or coworkers.
– Always ask for permission before listing someone as a reference. It’s important to ensure they are willing and able to provide a glowing recommendation.
– Provide your references with information about the job you are applying for so they can tailor their recommendations to the position.
– Always provide your references with a copy of your current resume so they can speak to your skills and qualifications.
– Consider providing the contact information for your references on a separate sheet of paper to keep your resume clean and easy to read.
Examples of Please List Three Professional References
Reference for Sales Position
Dear Mr. Smith,
It was a pleasure working with you during my time at ABC Corporation. I am currently applying for a sales position at XYZ Company and I was wondering if you would be willing to serve as one of my professional references.
I believe my experience in sales, my strong work ethic, and my ability to work well in a team make me an ideal candidate for this position. If you are willing to be a reference for me, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Reference for IT Position
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I am applying for an IT position at ABC Company and I was hoping you would be willing to serve as one of my professional references. I believe your knowledge of my work as a software engineer at XYZ Corporation would make you an ideal reference.
If you are willing to serve as a reference, I would be happy to provide you with additional information about the position and my qualifications.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
John Smith
Reference for Marketing Position
Dear Mr. Lee,
I thoroughly enjoyed working with you during my time at DEF Company. I am currently applying for a marketing position at GHI Corporation and I was wondering if you would be willing to serve as one of my professional references.
If you are able to serve as a reference, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. I believe my experience in marketing and my ability to work well in a team make me a strong candidate for this position.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Reference for Teaching Position
Dear Mrs. Davis,
I am applying for a teaching position at ABC School and I was hoping you would be willing to serve as one of my professional references. My time working as a teaching assistant under your supervision was invaluable and I believe your recommendation would serve me well.
If you are willing to serve as a reference, I would be happy to provide you with additional information about the position and my qualifications.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
Samantha Johnson
Reference for Finance Position
Dear Mr. Thompson,
As someone who has worked with me in a professional capacity, I was hoping you would be willing to serve as one of my professional references as I apply for a finance position at XYZ Corporation. Your knowledge of my work ethic and financial experience would make you an ideal reference.
If you are willing to serve as a reference, I would be happy to provide you with additional information about the position and my qualifications.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Reference for Design Position
Dear Ms. Martinez,
I am applying for a design position at GHI Company and I was hoping you would be willing to serve as one of my professional references. Working with you during my time at DEF Corporation was a valuable learning experience and I believe your recommendation would serve me well.
If you are willing to serve as a reference, I would be happy to provide you with additional information about the position and my qualifications.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
Ashley Brown
Reference for Engineering Position
Dear Dr. Jones,
I am applying for an engineering position at ABC Corporation and I was hoping you would be willing to serve as one of my professional references. Your knowledge of my work as a research assistant at XYZ University would make you an ideal reference.
If you are willing to serve as a reference, I would be happy to provide you with additional information about the position and my qualifications.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Michael Johnson
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my list of professional references?
When listing your professional references, be sure to include the individual’s name, job title, company, phone number, and email address. You should also include a brief statement about your relationship with the individual and why they are qualified to speak on your behalf.
How many professional references should I list?
Most employers will ask for three to five professional references. Be sure to choose individuals who can provide unique insights into your work ethic and qualifications.
What should I do if I don’t have any professional references?
If you don’t have any professional references, consider reaching out to former professors, coaches, or volunteer coordinators who can speak to your character and work ethic. You can also include personal references, such as family friends or mentors, but be sure to ask for permission first.
Can I list coworkers as professional references?
Yes, you can list coworkers as professional references, but be sure to choose individuals who have worked with you on important projects or assignments. It’s also important to ensure that the coworker is not a close friend or family member, as this can be seen as unprofessional.
Should I provide my references with a copy of my resume?
Yes, you should provide your references with a copy of your resume so they can speak to your skills and qualifications. You can also provide them with a copy of the job description to ensure they have a clear understanding of the position you are applying for.
What should I say when asking someone to serve as a reference?
When asking someone to serve as a reference, be sure to thank them for their time and provide them with a brief explanation of the position you are applying for. You should also ask if they are willing and able to provide a positive recommendation.
Conclusion
List three professional references is an important step in getting your dream job. By choosing the right individuals and providing them with the necessary information, you can ensure that your references will provide glowing recommendations that will help you stand out from the competition.