Crafting a Strong Resume Reference List
A well-crafted resume reference list is a crucial element of your job application. It provides potential employers with valuable insights into your work ethic, skills, and overall suitability for the role. Selecting the right individuals to vouch for you can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing the job. Focus on choosing references who know you well and can speak to your strengths relevant to the target position.
When compiling your reference list, consider individuals such as former supervisors, managers, colleagues, professors, or even clients you’ve worked with on successful projects. These individuals should be able to provide specific examples of your accomplishments and demonstrate how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the job. Before adding anyone to your list, always obtain their permission and provide them with a copy of your resume and a brief overview of the position you’re applying for. This will help them prepare to provide a compelling and relevant reference.
Preparing Your References for Success
Providing your references with sufficient information is essential for ensuring they can give a positive and helpful recommendation. Share the job description with them so they understand the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Also, remind them of specific projects or accomplishments you worked on together that demonstrate those skills. The more context you provide, the better equipped they will be to highlight your strengths and suitability for the role.
Remember to thank your references for their willingness to support your job search. A simple thank you note or email goes a long way in showing your appreciation. Keeping your references informed about your job search progress, including whether you received an offer, is also a courteous gesture. Building and maintaining strong relationships with your professional network is crucial for long-term career success. Treat your references with respect and keep them updated.
8 Sample Reference Request & Recommendation Letters
Sample Request Email #1: To a Former Manager
Subject: Reference Request – [Your Name] – [Job Title] at [Company Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to you today to request a reference for a [Job Title] position I am applying for at [Company Name]. The role focuses on [briefly describe the job].
During my time at [Previous Company], I greatly valued your guidance as my manager, particularly on [mention a specific project or skill where they provided valuable support]. I believe your insights into my [mention relevant skills] would be incredibly helpful to [New Company].
I have attached my resume and the job description for your review. The hiring manager may contact you at your email: [Manager’s Email] or by phone at [Manager’s Phone]. Please let me know if you are able to provide a reference for me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Recommendation Letter #1: From a Manager
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for the position of [Job Title] at your company. I had the pleasure of working with [Your Name] as their manager at [Previous Company] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
During their time here, [Your Name] consistently exceeded expectations. Specifically, they [mention a concrete achievement with numbers or quantifiable results, e.g., “increased sales by 15% in Q2”]. [He/She/They] are a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with strong [mention key skills relevant to the job description, e.g., “communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills”].
[Your Name] is also a team player and a valuable asset to any organization. [He/She/They] are always willing to go the extra mile and are committed to delivering high-quality work. I am confident that [Your Name] would be a valuable addition to your team.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Manager’s Contact Information]
Sample Request Email #2: To a Former Colleague
Subject: Reference Request – [Your Name]
Hi [Colleague’s Name],
Hope you’re doing well!
I’m applying for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and was hoping you might be able to serve as a reference. The role requires [mention 1-2 key skills].
I really valued our collaboration on [Project Name] at [Previous Company], especially your expertise in [Colleague’s Area of Expertise]. I think you could speak well to my [mention 1-2 skills relevant to the job] because of that project.
I’ve attached my resume and the job description. Let me know if you’re comfortable providing a reference. Their contact information is: Email: [Hiring Manager email] Phone: [Hiring manager phone number].
Thanks so much!
Best,
[Your Name]
Sample Recommendation Letter #2: From a Colleague
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I worked with [Your Name] as a colleague at [Previous Company] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
During our time together, I was consistently impressed by [Your Name]’s [mention a key skill, e.g., “problem-solving abilities”]. For example, on the [Project Name] project, [he/she/they] [give a specific example of their contribution and positive impact].
[Your Name] is a dedicated and resourceful individual who is always willing to help others. [He/She/They] possess excellent [mention 1-2 other relevant skills, e.g., “communication and teamwork skills”] and is a strong asset to any team. I highly recommend [Your Name] for this position.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Colleague’s Name]
[Colleague’s Title]
[Colleague’s Contact Information]
Sample Request Email #3: To a Professor
Subject: Reference Request – [Your Name] – [Course Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a reference for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. This role is in the field of [Industry] and requires strong [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] skills.
I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] course during my time at [University Name], and I believe that what I learned about [Course Topic] is directly relevant to this position. I especially appreciated [mention a specific assignment or project you excelled at]. I would be grateful if you could speak to my [mention skills gained in the course].
I have attached my resume, the job description, and a paper of my [Course Name] for you to review. The hiring manager may contact you by Email: [Hiring Manager Email] or by Phone: [Hiring Manager Phone]. Please let me know if you are able to provide a reference for me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Recommendation Letter #3: From a Professor
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I was [Your Name]’s professor for [Course Name] at [University Name].
[Your Name] was an exceptional student who consistently demonstrated a strong grasp of [Subject Matter]. [He/She/They] excelled in [mention a specific assignment or project], showcasing [his/her/their] ability to [mention relevant skills]. For example, [He/She/They] scored highest in the class on [Exam or Project].
[Your Name] is a bright, dedicated, and highly motivated individual. [He/She/They] possess excellent [mention relevant skills, e.g., “analytical and problem-solving skills”] and is a valuable asset to any organization. I am confident that [Your Name] will succeed in this role.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Professor’s Name]
[Professor’s Title]
[Professor’s Contact Information]
Sample Request Email #4: To a Client
Subject: Reference Request – [Your Name] – [Project/Service] at [Company Name]
Dear [Client’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am reaching out to see if you would be willing to provide a reference for a [Job Title] position I am applying for at [Company Name]. The role focuses on [briefly describe the job].
I really valued our work together on the [Project/Service] at [Your Company], where I helped you with [briefly mention what you did for them]. I believe you could speak to my [mention skills relevant to the job, e.g., problem-solving, communication, customer service] as it relates to that project.
I have attached my resume and a brief overview of the role. The hiring manager may contact you at your email: [Client’s Email] or by phone at [Client’s Phone]. Please let me know if you are comfortable being contacted by them.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Recommendation Letter #4: From a Client
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at your company. I worked with [Your Name] as a client of [Your Company] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
During that time, [Your Name] provided exceptional service and demonstrated a strong understanding of [Industry/Area of Expertise]. They were instrumental in [mention a specific positive outcome or achievement]. For example, [He/She/They] implemented [solution] and improved by [quantifiable result].
[Your Name] is a highly professional and reliable individual. I highly recommend [Him/Her/Them] for this position.
Sincerely,
[Client’s Name]
[Client’s Title]
[Client’s Contact Information]
Conclusion: Building a Professional Foundation
Choosing and preparing your references is a vital step in the job application process. By carefully selecting individuals who can speak to your skills and experience, and by providing them with the information they need to give a strong recommendation, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Always remember to thank your references for their support and keep them informed of your progress. A strong reference list can make the difference between landing an interview and being overlooked.
