How to get references for jobs

People will be good referees if they:

• are professionals rather than friends
• can be contacted easily when you apply for a job
• have known you for a long time

Stay in touch with people who can give you a good reference. It is important to keep your references up to date.

If you think someone could give you a reference, ask them if they are happy to do this. 

How you ask depends on your relationship. You can ask friends in person or by text. Or ask professionals by sending a polite email like this:

Dear [name],

I hope you're well. I'm applying for jobs as a [job role] and was wondering if you would act as a referee in my applications? If this is OK, could you please let me know how you’d like to be contacted and your contact details? Many thanks for your time.

Kind regards,

[your name].

Most professional people will know about providing references. If you get a job offer, make sure you can give your referees' details, such as:

• full name
• contact information
• job title
• relationship to you

And let your referees know to expect to be contacted!

Anyone can give you a ‘professional’ reference for your first job if they know about your skills and achievements.

If you have volunteered in a role related to the job you are applying for, your referee can say that you have the skills for the job. Ask for a reference during or at the end of your placement.

Volunteering to develop your skills for work