Choosing references who will help you get the job

References are often the last step before an offer. The right people, well prepared, make that step easy.

Who to ask

• Recent supervisors are the strongest choice
• A senior coworker who saw your work up close
• For a first job: a teacher, coach or volunteer coordinator

Avoid family members and friends. Employers want someone who has seen you work.

Always ask first

Ask each person before you list them, and check the best phone number and email to share.

Prepare them

When an employer asks for references, give your references a quick heads-up:

• The job title and company
• Two or three things the employer cares about
• A reminder of a project or moment they could mention

Say thank you

Let your references know how it turned out. They'll be glad to help again.