How to Present Job References at a Job Interview

A job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience. Remembering people's names, providing real-life examples for hypothetical situations and asserting why you are the best candidate for the job can leave even the calmest person in a muddled state. But when an interview has gone well, many prospective employers will ask you to present your job references. How you present those references can play a crucial role in whether or not you get the job.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Contact information for all your references
• Resume or high quality paper

Prepare References for a Job Interview

1. Tailor your references to the specific interview. Different jobs have different responsibilities that will require specific skill-sets. Research the company you are interviewing with and review the position you are interviewing for so that you know what tasks or skills the job entails.

2. Use resume paper or at least paper of higher quality than copy paper, making sure that it matches any prepared documents you are bringing with you--such as your resume or curriculum vitae. A subdued color, gray or ivory, makes a more professional impression than brightly colored paper.

3. Format your references correctly. Usually only 1 page long, a reference page contains your personal contact information in the upper left-hand corner. Each reference contact should then be listed as its own paragraph and needs to include the reference's first and last name, his or her address, contact phone number (email address is optional), job title and company.

Present Job References at an Interview

1. Bring a copy of your prepared reference list with you to your interview. The typed document should be a piece of paper that you can present separate from your resume.

2. Present your references only when you are asked for them to avoid inundating your contacts with phone calls. You can be certain that if an employer is seriously considering you for a position he will ask for your references. Some companies don't even check references until after a candidate is offered a job.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have a copy of your references to present to a potential employer, ask if you can fax them a copy. It will make a much better impression than a hastily hand-written list.

• Make sure that you have informed all of your listed references that you are using them as such. They will be more likely to give you a glowing recommendation if they are expecting to be contacted and know a little about the job you are applying for.