References – There are better options than Yo’ Mama!

Here at VCCS we do something called a first appointment summary with each client. One of the questions that frequently cause clients stress is “Do you have references?”

The usual responses include;

“Its been so long – I wouldn’t have any idea how to contact them.”

“They wouldn’t have any idea who I am.”

“Only family members – some of them have different last names.”

“You could call my mom.”

References are very valuable, yet most people don’t seem to spend as much time arranging and coordinating with their references as they should. References are important because they give potential employers an idea of what they are getting into by hiring you – a glimpse of your work ethic and personality from someone who has already had experience with you.

There are 2 types of references; PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL. Both can be equally valuable.

Professional references are people that can attest to your skills, qualifications and abilities at work. Professional references can include; Managers, Supervisors, colleagues, clients and business contacts.

Personal references, sometimes referred to as character references, are people that can attest to characteristics that would benefit you are work, such as; reliability, taking initiative and being result-oriented. Personal references can include; teachers, pastors, someone that as supervised you volunteering or that you’ve volunteered with, coaches, members of the community and the list goes on. That’s the great thing about personal references – you can use anyone!

And now I hear you saying “Well what’s wrong with my mom then?” The important thing to remember about any reference is that the employer wants a legitimate opinion of your past work and personality. Having your mom or similar references on your list will make the employer wonder if their opinion of you is clouded by the fact that you are family or how much they would like you to get the job.

There are several keys to having good references:

1. Contact your references early and often. Don’t wait until you’ve been asked for an interview and then arrange your references. You should have a list of references that you are regularly in contact with. Consider holidays and special events as a great time to get back in touch.
2. Make sure your references know what type of work you are applying for. When you get a call for an interview and are asked to bring references with you, call your references, and discuss the qualifications of the position and what skills and experience you are depending on them to be speaking about. You could even go as far as sending the job description to them.
3. Let your reference know when your interview is and who the employer is.

If you still have questions about references…  “How do I ask people to be references for me?”….  “How do I format a references page correctly?”…Come into VCCS and our staff would be happy to help you!