APPLICATIONS · 4 MIN READ
How to Choose and Ask for Job References
References are often the final step before an offer. Choosing well and preparing them is simple and pays off.
Who to ask
- Recent managers or supervisors who saw your work
- Colleagues who can speak to teamwork and skills
- Professors, advisors, or volunteer leaders if you are early in your career
How to ask
Always ask permission first, and give them an easy way to decline. Script: "I am applying for [role] and would be grateful if you would serve as a reference. Would you be comfortable speaking positively about my work?"
Prepare them
Send your résumé, the job description, and two or three points you hope they will mention. Let them know when to expect a call and thank them afterward, whatever the outcome.
Keep your list ready
Store your reference list in a single document with names, titles, emails, and phone numbers. Empload has a documents tab for references so they are ready the moment an employer asks.
Frequently asked questions
How many references do I need?
Three is the common request. Prepare three to four strong options.
More guides
- How to Track Your Job Search (Without a Messy Spreadsheet)
- 10 Résumé Tips That Actually Get You Interviews
- The Interview Preparation Guide: Before, During, and After
- How to Follow Up After Applying (With Templates)
- Free Job Application Tracker: What to Track and How to Set One Up
- Cover Letter Template and Tips That Actually Get Read
- 15 Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
- How to Answer "Tell Me About Yourself" in an Interview
- How to Write a Résumé With No Experience
- How to Get Your Résumé Past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
- How to Find a Job Fast: A Practical 30-Day Plan
- How to Find Remote Jobs (and Avoid the Scams)
- Job Scams: 10 Warning Signs and What to Do
- Salary Negotiation: How to Ask for More (With Scripts)
- New Grad Job Search Guide: Landing Your First Role
- Free ATS Résumé Checker: Compare Your Résumé to Any Job Description
- How to Tailor Your Résumé to a Job Description in 15 Minutes
- How to Use AI for Your Job Search (Without Sounding Like a Robot)
- Job Search Browser Extension: Save Jobs in One Click
- How to Autofill Job Applications Faster (and Safely)
- Best Free Job Application Trackers: What to Look For
- How to Write Résumé Bullet Points That Show Results
- The STAR Method: How to Answer Behavioral Interview Questions
- How to Explain an Employment Gap on Your Résumé and in Interviews
- A 30-Day Job Search Plan: Week-by-Week Checklist