Professional References

What factors should you consider when choosing professional references?

• Zodiac sign

• Number of pets

• Favorite color

• Relevance to the job, relationship, credibility, communication skills, willingness to provide a positive recommendation

Explain the importance of professional references in a job application.

• Professional references are only required for entry-level positions.

• Employers do not consider professional references when evaluating candidates.

• Professional references offer validation of the candidate's qualifications and character, helping employers make informed hiring decisions.

• Professional references are unnecessary and can be omitted from a job application.

Name three types of professional references commonly used.

• Work references

• Academic references, Professional references, Personal references

• Character references

• Friend references

How can you effectively use professional references to enhance your job application?

• Select irrelevant individuals as references

• Include references without informing them

• Select relevant individuals, provide contact info and relationship, inform them in advance, and express gratitude.

• Provide incorrect contact information for references

Why is it important to ask for permission before listing someone as a professional reference?

• To surprise the potential employer with unexpected references

• To test the reference's loyalty and honesty

• To save time by not having to contact the reference beforehand

• To ensure the reference is willing, prepared, and available to provide positive and relevant information to the potential employer.

What information should you provide to your professional references to help them prepare?

• Do not inform them about the job you are applying for

• Give negative feedback from previous employers

• Provide personal information like hobbies and interests

• Provide a brief overview of work history, skills, and accomplishments. Remind them of specific projects, your role, and positive feedback. Inform about the job you are applying for and why you are a good fit. Share contact information for reference check.

Discuss the significance of having a diverse set of professional references.

• References from family and friends hold the same weight

• Only having references from previous supervisors is ideal

• Having references from the same industry is sufficient

• Having a diverse set of professional references is significant as it showcases a range of skills, experiences, and perspectives that can provide a more comprehensive view of an individual's capabilities.

Explain the difference between a personal reference and a professional reference.

• Personal reference is from someone who knows you personally, professional reference is from a former employer or colleague.

• Personal reference is from a teacher, professional reference is from a mentor.

• Personal reference is from a colleague, professional reference is from a family member.

• Personal reference is from a former employer, professional reference is from a friend.

How many professional references are typically required in a job application?

• 3-5

• 10-12

• 6-8

• 1-2

What should you do if a potential employer does not contact your professional references?

• Ignore the lack of contact and assume they have all the information they need

• Follow up with the potential employer to inquire about the status of your application and politely ask if they need any additional information or references.

• Contact your references and ask them to reach out to the potential employer

• Submit a new list of references without being prompted