Professional References

A professional reference is a reference from a person who can vouch for your qualifications. A professional reference is typically a former employer, a colleague, a client, a vendor, a supervisor or someone else who can recommend you for employment. 

• Sample Reference Request Letter
• Sample Email Message Requesting a Reference

Examples of business references provided for employment, to recommend the business to other clients, or to provide an endorsement of a contact for business purposes.

When you are applying for jobs you'll need to have a list of references ready. Those references should be able to vouch for your skills, abilities and qualifications as they relate to the jobs you apply for. Here's more about who to to use for references when you apply for jobs and how your can help your job search.

Here's advice on how to get LinkedIn recommendations, who to ask for references, and how to manage the recommendations you've received.

When you provide a list of professional references to an employer, you should include your name at the top of the page. Then list your references, including name, job title, company, and contact information, with a space in between each reference. Include at least three professional references, who can attest to your ability to perform the job you are applying for, on your list. Here's how to format a list of professional references for employment or business purposes.

Sample reference and recommendation letters, letter samples for character references, reference and recommendation letter templates, and sample letters asking for a reference.

When you provide a list of professional references to an employer, you should include your name at the top of the page. Then list your references, including name, job title, company, and contact information, with a space in between each reference.

• Sample Reference List
• Sample Reference List Format
• Sample Reference Page

It's important to be prepared to provide a list of employment references who can attest to the skills and qualifications that you have for the job you are applying for.  Plan ahead and get your references in order, before you need them. It will save time scrambling to put together a list at the last minute.