When applying for jobs, many employers will ask for a list of personal references. But what exactly is a personal reference? And how do you choose the right people to recommend you?
In this post, I’ll clarify exactly what a personal reference is and offer some tips to help you find the right ones for your job applications.
What is a Personal Reference?
A personal reference is someone who knows you well and can vouch for your character and skills. Unlike professional references, who are usually former employers or colleagues, personal references might be friends, family members, or mentors.
Employers often ask for personal references to get a better understanding of who you are as a person, beyond your qualifications and work experience. This can be especially important for jobs that require strong interpersonal skills, like customer service or team leadership.
Personal Reference vs. Professional Reference
While the terms personal reference and professional reference are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences. A personal reference focuses on your character and qualities, while a professional reference speaks to your abilities and experience in a work setting.
Most employers will want a mix of both types of references. Personal references provide insight into your personality, while professional references can confirm your skills and accomplishments.
Why Personal References Matter
Personal references can significantly influence an employer’s hiring decision. Here are a few reasons why personal references are so important:
- They provide a more complete picture of the candidate. While resumes and interviews showcase a candidate’s professional skills, personal references offer insights into their character and work ethic.
- They can help to humanize the candidate. In a competitive job market, personal references can help differentiate a candidate from others with similar qualifications. Employers are more likely to remember personal stories about a candidate than facts about their work experience.
- They lend credibility to the candidate’s claims. If a candidate states they have excellent communication skills, a personal reference can confirm this by sharing a story of how the candidate effectively resolved a conflict.
Given the increasing importance of personal references, candidates must understand how to choose the right ones and how to prepare them for their role in the hiring process. In the following sections, I’ll provide tips on how to do just that.
Choosing the Right Personal References
Now that we’ve established the importance of personal references, the next step is to choose the right ones. Here are some tips:
Think about your relationships
Consider the people in your life who know you well. This could be a coach, a teacher, or even a family friend. The most important thing is that they can speak positively about you and provide specific examples of your character or skills.
Look for diversity
It can be beneficial to have a mix of personal references who can highlight different aspects of your character. For example, a mentor might speak to your work ethic, while a friend could discuss your teamwork skills.
Ask for permission
Before listing someone as a personal reference, always ask for their permission. This not only shows respect but also gives them a heads-up that they might receive a call or email from a potential employer.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your references are not only relevant but also able to provide meaningful insights into your character and abilities.
Preparing Your References
Once you’ve chosen your references, the next step is to prepare them for their role in your job application process. Here’s how:
Provide context about the job
Share details about the job you’re applying for and why you think you’re a good fit. This will help your reference tailor their recommendation to the specific role.
Share your resume
Providing your references with a copy of your resume can help them understand your professional background and achievements. This way, they can speak more confidently about your skills and experiences.
Keep them updated
If there are any changes in your job search or if you secure a position, be sure to inform your references. This not only keeps them in the loop but also shows appreciation for their support.
By preparing your references well, you increase the chances of them providing a strong recommendation that could sway a potential employer in your favor.
Read Also: Follow These 3 Writing Guidelines While Writing Resume
Following Up with Personal References
After your reference has provided their recommendation, it’s important to follow up with them. Here’s how:
Thank them
Always thank your references for their time and support. A simple thank you note or email can go a long way in showing your appreciation.
Keep them updated
If you land the job or if there are any significant updates in your career, be sure to share this news with your references. They will appreciate being kept in the loop and it strengthens your relationship.
Offer to return the favor
If your personal preference is a professional connection, see if there’s a way you can assist them in return. Offering to help them when they need it shows that you value the relationship beyond just using them as a reference.
Following up with your references not only shows appreciation for their support but also strengthens your relationship for future opportunities.
Personal References in Different Contexts
Different industries place varying levels of importance on personal references. Understanding how personal references are perceived in your target industry can help you better prepare your references and enhance their impact.
Healthcare
In the healthcare industry, personal references are often used to assess a candidate’s bedside manner and ability to work as part of a team. A personal reference from a previous volunteer or internship position can provide valuable insights into these skills.
Education
Similarly, in education, personal references can validate a candidate’s ability to connect with students and work collaboratively with colleagues. References from previous teaching positions or educational internships are especially valuable.
Business and Corporate Jobs
In business and corporate environments, personal references are often used to gauge leadership potential and teamwork skills. A personal reference from a previous manager or colleague who can speak to these abilities is particularly beneficial.
Non-Profit Organizations
For non-profit organizations, personal references may be used to assess a candidate’s commitment to the organization’s mission and values. A reference from a respected member of the community can add significant weight to a candidate’s application.
Understanding these nuances can help candidates choose and prepare their references effectively, ensuring they present the strongest possible case for their candidacy.
Overcoming Challenges with Personal References
While personal references can greatly enhance a job application, there are some potential challenges to keep in mind. Here are some strategies for overcoming these challenges:
Concerns about Bias
Many candidates worry that personal references may introduce bias into the hiring process. To mitigate this concern, it’s important to choose references who can provide balanced viewpoints. For instance, if you have a close friendship with a reference, you might also consider including a more formal connection, like a past employer.
Handling Negative Feedback
There may be instances where a personal reference has a less-than-positive opinion of the candidate. In such cases, it’s important to address the issue directly with the reference before they are contacted by a potential employer. This allows the candidate to explain their side of the story and helps to maintain the relationship.
Building Strong Relationships
Building strong, positive relationships with potential personal references can help alleviate many of these concerns. Regularly communicating with and appreciating your references can encourage them to speak positively about you, even when past experiences may not have been perfect.
By addressing these challenges proactively, candidates can enhance the effectiveness of their references and increase their chances of landing their desired job.
Read Also: Tired of Teaching? Top Work-From-Anywhere Jobs for Teachers
Closing Words
In summary, personal references play a crucial role in the job application process. They not only validate a candidate’s skills and experiences but also offer a glimpse into their character. By carefully choosing, preparing, and maintaining relationships with personal references, candidates can significantly improve their chances of securing their dream job.
For more insights and tips on how to successfully navigate the job application process, be sure to check out our blog or subscribe to our newsletter.
