The semester is almost over…but your job search may not be.  Although you may have already sent out resumes (tailored!) to apply for positions that interest you, you may find that you also need to provide references to potential employers.  You should put as much thought into this as you did in putting together your resume and cover letter!  Here are some tips for providing Top Notch References:

• Ask, don’t assume.  Ask your references for permission to use their names.
• Let the professionals do the job.  Potential supervisors are not interested in hearing friends or relatives talk about how nice you are.
• Avoid name dropping.
• Provide references with the appropriate tools.
• Alert them to potential phone calls.
• Keep your references informed.
• Thank your references!
• Keep in touch.
• Update your list.
• Return the favor.

For further explanations on these 10 Tips for Top Notch References (Who to ask and why), click HERE!

As a side note, you do not need to include the statement “References Available Upon Request” on your resume.  That takes up valuable space and, frankly, if an employer asks for your references, of course you’re going to make them available!