As part of the employment process, you may be asked for references from previous employment. People often find this hard if their current employer doesn’t know that they are job hunting or if they have not had many successful jobs previously. A person cannot give you a bad reference but they can refuse to give one.

You will need to provide a reference or references from people who can confirm the skills and qualifications that you have that are applicable to the job you are applying for. If possible, it is good to have your list of reference ready when you start applying so you don’t have to rush round afterwards trying to get them.

Former bosses and co-workers can often give reference in terms of professional ones and friends, neighbours and people you may have volunteered with should be able to give you a personal one. Make sure that you pick someone that is reliable and will complete the reference on time. Some company policies state that they will not give out references, only confirm your employment and job title.

If someone agrees to give you a reference, then try to make it as easy for them as possible. Give them an updated copy of your CV and state the types of job roles you are applying for.