A well thought out reference sheet should be a staple in you career management portfolio. Many questions still are regularly asked of me regarding the current standards of a productive reference sheet. Therefore, below are tips for the appropriate use and development of references for your review and assistance.
 

The first question I am always asked regarding reference sheets is, “Should references be included on a resume?” The answer is always, “No”. Your reference list should be separate from other documents but definitely included in your career management portfolio and should be brought to all interview and networking meetings. Duplicates of all your document should be made and brought to your employment meetings for convenience and to demonstrate your organization and preparedness.   

A reference sheet consists of three to six references. The contacts should be relevant to your career or educational background. They should not come from friends or family members even if they have impressive credentials of their own. References should be made up of mentors, college professors, internship employers, co-workers, past employers, current employers, association presidents, or heads of departments.  

A current or past superior may not always be the best choice for a reference. If you had a better rapport or worked closely with the district manager or some other superior, they might be a better choice for a more favorable reference. If using this contact as a superior then it should be someone that you directly or indirectly reported to.  Having one or two co-worker references is also a good idea. This gives the employer a different view and understanding of your work ethics, compatibility, dependability and team involvement skills from a different perspective then that of a boss. 

Before listing anyone as a reference it is wise and considerate to always get their permission. Make sure they are aware that you are looking for a job and they agree to be used as a reference. Once permission has been granted it is essential to provide your references with a guideline of what you would like them to share if contacted by potential employers. Some contacts try too hard and their referral can be more harmful than helpful. You want your references to work for you so prepare them and even walk through a mock reference call. On that note, make sure you are confident in the communication abilities of your contacts before asking them to assist you in your job search for just this reason. 

Once you have successfully developed your reference list of powerful contacts, keep in communication with them. Let them know your progress and if they should expect a call. When you have found a new job remember to send a note to all the contacts on your reference sheet and thank them for their participation in your career advancement, even if they were never contacted. A thank you note or small gift of appreciation goes a long way. 

If you should need your reference sheet in the future don’t assume you can still use the old list. Circumstance change over time so you should go through the entire process every time you are in need of a reference sheet. 

Lastly, employers will expect reference sheets to be available and they will most likely call some or all of the references on your sheet. Don’t be surprised if other information from your resume is checked as well, such as your address, past position title, college attendance, coursework or degree received certifications, licenses and other qualifying material. Make sure you are honest and forthright on your resume, and check these specifically for typos, you would hate to miss your chance at an interview and great job because of mistakes or what you think is a harmless white lie.