Reference Requests
Prospective employers may request or require candidates to provide references.
When an employer requests references, provide the names and contact information of individuals who have agreed to speak on your behalf. These references should be able to confirm your skills, work ethic, and character as an employee, coworker, or student. References help employers or academic programs assess whether you are a good fit for their opportunity.
Many employers will ask that you provide 1-2 references during the interview or onboarding process; some employers may require more. It is important to remember that you should never provide references’ contact information until it is requested. Essential information to provide includes the individual’s name, job title, company, email address, phone number, and brief statement about your relationship to them.
Before providing any references’ information, ensure that you have received permission to use the individual as a reference. You should also provide the reference with further information about the job posting or academic program to which you are applying so that they can speak to your qualities that are best aligned with the opportunity.