Recommendations

What questions do they ask references?

What questions do they ask references?

The standard questions you should expect potential employers to ask your references include:“Can you confirm the start and end dates of the candidate’s employment at your company?”“What was the candidate’s job title? Can you briefly explain some of their responsibilities in the role?”“How do you know the candidate?”

Who should I use as a personal reference?

Who should provide them? Personal references are commonly provided by teachers, lecturers, group or club leaders, neighbours, friends and family members. Those providing the reference should know you well and be able to give examples that back up statements about your character.

What should a reference say about you?

Your references should talk about your strengths in specific situations — not just basic information. They should be ready to provide examples of actual projects where you exceeded expectations. Your reference should easily cite one or two situations that highlight your strengths.