Preparing References
As part of the hiring process, you’ll likely be asked to provide professional references — individuals who can speak to your skills, work ethic, and performance. These references may be contacted by a representative of General Placement Service or directly by the hiring company.
To help you prepare, here are answers to common questions about reference preparation:
How many references should I provide?
You should prepare a list of 3 to 4 professional references. Ideally, include individuals such as current or former managers, supervisors, or colleagues. When possible, try to include one contact from each of your last three employers. If your job search is confidential, focus on references from previous roles. In some cases, clients or agents you’ve worked with regularly may also be appropriate.
Should I notify my references beforehand?
Yes — always.
Reach out to your references in advance to let them know what position you’re applying for and that they may be contacted. Encourage them to speak honestly and thoroughly about your work. A strong reference can significantly strengthen your candidacy.
How should I format my reference list?
References should be presented as a separate document, not included on your resume. However, use the same header and formatting style as your resume to maintain consistency in presentation.
What details should be included?
Make sure each reference includes the following information:
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Full Name
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Job Title
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Company Name
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Phone Number
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Email Address
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Your relationship to the person (e.g., direct supervisor, colleague, client)
Example format:
Jane Doe
Vice President of Underwriting
XYZ Insurance Company
(724) 836-2300 ext. 10
example@xyzinsurance.com
Jane was my immediate supervisor and evaluated my leadership and team management skills on a regular basis.
If you’d like help formatting a reference document or reviewing your list for effectiveness, feel free to contact a GPS Consultant.