References

It is generally a good idea to keep your application package to a minimum, including just your cover letter and resume unless asked to include references. References are generally listed on a separate sheet of paper.

Some people believe adding references to a resume/application package gives the potential employer an edge. A simple call to a reference who does not give you a glowing recommendation may result in you not receiving an interview. Additionally, the employer may find out and question you about something you were not prepared to talk about at the interview.

Some people think an employer understands you will supply references if and when asked. Most employers expect to see a statement at the bottom of your resume about your references. Examples of statements: Excellent references to be supplied upon request, References available upon request, and References and letter(s) of recommendation available upon request.

Creating Your List of References

Professional References (work related)

Create a list of individuals who would present you positively to a prospective employer, preferably those who can discuss your work habits. Three work related/professional references are ideal. Your list might include: supervisors, co-workers, volunteer co-ordinators.

Character/Personal References

It is also appropriate to include two character/personal references. For example: teachers, doctors, landlord, other professionals.

Guidelines For Using References

Call each reference and ask permission prior to giving a potential employer their name. Be sure to ask if they will give you a positive reference. If they will, verify their current employer, title, phone number(s) and availability.
Give your references a copy of your current resume so they know your work history and the type(s) of jobs you are applying for.
You might even have a friend call your references to verify they are good ones. Have your friend prepared with a job in mind that you are applying for (one that fits your skills) as well as a list of questions to ask. Remember if the reference does not convince your friend to hire you, they will not convince an employer either. Look for another reference!
If your reference has changed jobs include their current title, employer and phone number, and the company where you were employed together.
Example: Joe Knowsme
Office Manager
XYZ Corporation, Some Town, Province
Formerly: Officer Supervisor, Past Company Name, Town, Province
(123) 456-7890

Sample questions that a potential employer may ask your reference:

What were your work habits: punctuality, days missed, initiative, dependability?
Were you productive, accurate and thorough?
Were you able to resolve problems independently?
Did you work well with customers?
Were you effective under pressure/time constraints?
Given the chance, would they hire you again?
Verify your length of employment.
What was your job title and duties?
Did you get along with supervisors and/or other staff?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Are you able to work independently?
Do you accept direction and constructive criticism?
Work well as part of a team contributing to team activities and share workload?
What kind of problem solving skills have you demonstrated?
Is there anything that you think would prevent them from doing a good job as a…..
What else would you like to tell us about this employee?

Letters Of Reference / Recommendation

It is not necessary to attach letters of reference to your resume. You can supply them at the interview or when you are asked for your references. If you have several, choose the best three which are most related to the job you are applying for. Reference letters leave a good impression even if employers say they do not require them. Also, include letters of reference/recommendation in your portfolio. Your References Sheet - Using the same format as your resume will tie all your information together and create a professional and consistent look.

Thank Your References - Express your appreciation and send your references a thank-you letter or note. Let them know the outcome of your job application.

Once your job search has ended and you find a job, there are things you can do to make your working life successful.

Communication skills
Working well with others requires effective communication skills, which can be learned on the job. Listening well to what is being said and asking for clarification when necessary are two particularly important skills in the workplace.

People skills
Good people skills are essential in the workplace and take time to develop. Here are a few pointers to get you started:

Practise patience. In the workplace, you often have to depend on others to get the job done, just as others may have to rely on you. The modern workplace relies on teamwork, so you need to stay calm under pressure and respect your co-workers.

Learn to accept criticism. When your supervisor hands something back to you for corrections, or suggests a different way of doing something, don't get upset; constructive criticism is part of the learning process.

Give others space to do their jobs. Ask questions if you need to, but learn to trust in your own ability to make decisions. When first training for a job, everyone will understand if you have questions about how to do things. After you settle in, try to solve problems on your own before going to your boss. That will show the employer and the other employees that you have the resources and initiative to find things out for yourself.

Forgive the mistakes of others as well as your own. Everyone has days when things don't go the right way. Being able to forgive yourself and others when mistakes are made will make you a better team member.

Learning styles
When you start a new job, there is a lot to learn about the organization, your employer, other employees and your position. That’s why it’s important to know how you learn best. For example:

Are you more likely to turn a computer on and start playing with it, or would you read the manual first?
Do you learn best by hearing about tasks, reading about tasks or performing tasks?

Let your employer know how you learn best and ask for what you need if necessary. It’s also important to look at how you can add different techniques to your learning style, like slowing down before jumping into a task or asking someone to show you how best to perform a task.

The power of knowledge
Knowledge gives you more choices. The more you learn, the more valuable you become to employers. You may be able to apply for higher positions within your organization or to transfer into another job with more responsibility.

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