You’ve made it through the interviews. You’ve impressed the hiring manager. Maybe you’ve even gotten a verbal offer. Then comes the next email: “We just need to complete a reference check.”
It seems like a formality, but it’s not. In fact, 87% of employers report conducting reference checks¹. Reference checks are still one of the most important steps in the hiring process. They might not always make headlines, but they can absolutely make or break your chances. And yet, most candidates don’t think about their references until the last minute.
If you’re looking to stay competitive, here’s what you need to know—and do—about professional references and how to make sure yours are ready when it counts.
Why Employers Still Rely on References
Reference checks aren’t just about verifying employment dates. They help hiring managers understand how you actually operate on the job. Can you take feedback? Do you hit deadlines? Are you someone your team trusted? These are the questions references can answer things a resume or even an interview can’t always show clearly.
Who You List Matters More Than You Think
The most impactful references aren’t just people who like you—they’re people who’ve worked with you closely and can speak specifically about your contributions.
Ideal references include:
- Former supervisors or managers: These are your strongest advocates. They can speak to your performance, growth, and how you responded to direction or feedback.
- Senior colleagues or team leads: Especially those who worked alongside you on key initiatives or cross-functional projects.
What to avoid: Personal references. Friends, relatives, or mentors who haven’t worked directly with you may mean well, but they don’t offer the professional insight hiring managers are looking for.
How to Ask for a Reference (Without It Being Awkward)
Asking someone to be a reference doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable especially if you’ve kept the relationship professional and positive.
Here’s a simple framework:
-
Reach out early. Don’t wait until someone asks for references to start making calls. A quick email or call goes a long way.
-
Be clear and respectful. “Would you be comfortable being a reference for me?” gives them an easy way to say yes or opt out if they don’t feel they’re the best fit.
-
Make it easy for them. Let them know what role you’re applying for, what might come up in the call, and what parts of your work they might be asked about.
-
Say thank you. Always. A quick follow-up after the process (even just to say how it went) shows professionalism and keeps the relationship strong.
If it’s been a few years since you worked with them, give a quick refresher on the projects you shared or the impact you made together. It helps them speak confidently and accurately when contacted.
Keep Your Reference List Ready
Treat your reference list like part of your job search toolkit—right alongside your resume. Don’t scramble to pull names together after an interview.
A solid reference list includes:
- Full name
- Current job title and company
- Your professional relationship (e.g., “Former manager at XYZ Corp”)
- Email and phone number
- A short note about what you worked on together (optional, but helpful)
Aim for 3–5 quality references. Hiring managers want to hear from people who can speak to your recent work and impact.
A Good Reference Can Seal the Deal
Reference checks are often the final step before an offer. When they go well, they reinforce everything you’ve shared in interviews. They provide confidence, clarity, and sometimes context especially if there were questions about a short tenure, career gap, or transition.
We’ve seen candidates win roles over equally qualified peers because one of their references spoke genuinely and enthusiastically about the value they brought to the team. That kind of endorsement leaves a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts
Strong references aren’t just a nice-to-have. They’re a part of the hiring process you can’t afford to ignore. You don’t need a long list, but you do need the right people. Managers, colleagues, those who can speak to your strengths, work ethic, and the results you’ve delivered. Keep your list ready. Reach out early. Make the ask thoughtfully. And thank the people who help you along the way.
Because when it comes down to the final decision, the right reference might be what tips the offer in your favor.
Need help preparing for your next opportunity?
At Sanford Rose – JFSPartners, we don’t just connect you with top roles, we help you present your best self at every stage, from resume prep to reference strategy. If you’re ready to take the next step with a team that knows what hiring managers are really looking for, let’s talk! Schedule a conversation here
Sources:
