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Do professional references have to be bosses?

Joe Ford

Do professional references have to be bosses?

As such, professional references should be anyone who can attest to your work, such as: Current or former boss. Coworkers, either at your current job or previous jobs. People who report to you, either now or in previous roles.

When should you call a job reference?

Most employers will call your references only if you are the final candidate or one of the final two. Occasionally the final three or four. Every now and then an employer will check all the people they interview, although to me that’s inconsiderate of the reference.

Is it OK to ask your current employer for a reference?

First of all, unless the job posting specifically states so, do not attach your references when applying for a job. If you do, there is a risk the employer will call one or more of these references before you even know if you really want the job. If so, it is fine to omit your current employer.

What can references say about you?

One of the most important things that your references should emphasize is your relevant qualities and skills related to the job position. You want them to share your interpersonal and technical skills that are crucial to your position, and how you used them while you worked together.

What do employers look for in references?

What employers want from job references

  • Description of past job duties and experience: 36%
  • A view into the applicant’s strengths and weaknesses: 31%
  • Confirmation of job title and dates of employment: 11%
  • Description of workplace accomplishments: 8%
  • A sense of the applicant’s preferred work culture: 7%
  • Other/don’t know: 7%

What can I put for weaknesses on a reference?

Examples of weaknesses related to your work ethic might include:

  • Leaving projects unfinished.
  • Providing too much detail in reports.
  • Shifting from one project to another (multitasking)
  • Taking credit for group projects.
  • Taking on too many projects at once.
  • Taking on too much responsibility.
  • Being too detail-oriented.