When you’re applying for a new job, one of the most important—and often overlooked—steps is choosing the right professional references. Whether it’s before or after your interview, most employers or recruitment agencies will ask for two references, and your choices can significantly impact whether you land the job.
But who makes a strong reference? What if you’ve never had a job before? Let’s break it down.
✅ The Best References – Former Employers or Managers
If you’ve had previous work experience, your most recent managers or employers are usually the best people to list. Why?
- They’ve directly observed your work ethic and attitude
- They can vouch for your skills, reliability and team contribution
- They understand how you handled responsibilities and challenges
These individuals carry weight with hiring managers because they’ve seen you in action.
Tip: Always ask their permission before listing them as a reference. Let them know which role you’re applying for so they can tailor their feedback accordingly.
📝 What Can Employers Say in a Reference?
You might be surprised to learn that many companies provide only basic reference information, such as:
- Job title
- Dates of employment
This is often due to legal reasons. Employers want to avoid any liability that could come from giving a negative (or overly positive) reference. But even basic confirmations can help validate your application.
🎓 What If You Have No Previous Work Experience?
No worries—we all start somewhere!
If you’re new to the workforce or just leaving school, college or university, you can use:
- Teachers or lecturers
- Academic advisors or supervisors
These people can provide a character reference, focusing on things like:
- Your attendance and punctuality
- Your dedication and attitude
- Your communication or leadership skills in class projects
Even without a job history, showing that you’re reliable, respectful and motivated can go a long way.
🤝 What About Character References?
If you’re unable to provide employer or academic references, a character reference can still add value. These might come from:
- Family friends who know you in a professional context
- Coaches, mentors or community leaders
- Volunteer coordinators
Just ensure they can speak about your character, responsibilities and work ethic—and again, make sure they’re happy to be contacted.
📋 A Quick Checklist Before You List a Reference
- Do they remember you well enough to give an honest, informed reference?
- Have they given you permission to share their details?
- Are they relevant to the role you’re applying for (recent, professional, or academic)?
We’ve seen situations where references were so outdated the referee couldn’t remember the person at all—and that’s not a great look for your application!
💬 Need Help with Your Application? We’re Here to Support You
At 2020 Recruitment, we’ll always ask for references from your two most recent employers where possible. We’re also here to help if you’re unsure who to include or how to approach someone.
Whether you’re looking for advice on references, your CV or even how to approach your next job application, feel free to get in touch.
Call us on 01592 805600
Email: info@2020-recruitment.com
We’re here to help you make your next career move with confidence.
Good luck. You’ve got this!
