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References
Professional references are people who feel comfortable saying truly wonderful things about you. These are people who know your strengths, work ethic, technical skills, and what you have to offer an organization. Before your job search, ask 3-5 people to be professional references. Supervisors are ideal, but professors, coaches, and coworkers are also appropriate. Putting people on your list without asking them is exceptionally rude and often results in a less-than-spectacular reference. Supply your references with a copy of your resume and job description of each position you’re applying for, so they can tailor their comments accordingly. Since your references are going out of their way to support your career, it’s polite to let them know when they should be expecting a call. You may also want to send off a periodic thank-you note updating them on your search. Ask how they prefer to be contacted.
References should be listed on a separate sheet of paper following your resume and presented only after they have been requested. Use the same page heading as the resume to make it look like a professional package. Aim to include three to five contacts, and include their name, title, organization, phone, email address, and their relationship to you.