ways2work - Parents and carers
Referees
A referee is someone you have worked with or know really well who can answer the employer's questions about how you will fit the job.
Who would make good referees for you?
Although preferable, a referee doesn’t have to be someone you’ve worked for. They could be a former workmate or client, or someone you’ve volunteered with in a sporting or community organisation. They just need to know what your abilities and qualities are, and be willing and able to communicate these to an employer.
Referee etiquette
- make sure you ask if they are prepared to act as your referee before you apply for the job
- explain the type of job you're applying for and let them know if you get an interview (employers generally contact your referees after they've interviewed you)
- you might ask your referee to give you a written reference, but usually employers will call them to ask them questions
- usually you would include two or three referees at the end of your resume, it's up to you whether you include their contact details or say that they are 'available upon request'
- thank your referees and let them know how the interview went
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