References are an ageless part of working life. They are provided by individuals who are best positioned to make positive feedback about your work experience, work practices, personality and abilities. Employers stress a good reference as it is a good way to really assess a candidate’s worth for any job position. As such, both professional and personal referees should be chosen carefully.let us know about that the Can I Use A Friend As A Reference?
Luckily, you can use friends as your personal references. You make friends in your professional life, and so you give each other as references who can speak about your personal qualities some of which professional references cannot provide. Even though some people feel using friends as reference aren’t appropriate, however, as far as employers go, they do matter!
Difference Between A Professional And Personal Reference
A professional reference comprises individuals, employers, project leads, and colleagues who have worked with you and can verify your work skills and character. While a personal reference includes people outside your workspace who can attest to your personal attributes that can make you a good employee.
How Do You List A Friend As A Reference In A Job Application?
You can never go wrong with having these few tips in mind when considering using a friend as a reference for employment.
1. Seek Their Permission
Firstly, before listing a friend whom you consider worthy to give you a good reference, courtesy demands that you ask them if they mind being used as a reference.
2. Ensure They Can Be Trusted To Give A Good Reference
Interesting though it may be, It is not enough that your friends are willing to be your referee, you must be absolutely certain that they would give an excellent reference that meets the goal. Use only friends that are trustworthy and can give an outstanding review about your work history.
3. Inform Them About The Job Description
Take time to give them an adequate description of the job role and responsibilities you are applying for and also suggest to them some relevant skills are character that they should mention that relate to the position.
4. Appreciate Them
Now that they have given you a good reference, be sure to show gratitude to them for helping you. They will be encouraged to be at your beck and call for anything reference related in the future
8 Top People To Use For Reference Rather Than A Friend
Are you in doubt about the people to add to your reference list aide your friends, Check these out;
1. Recent Employer
Undoubtedly, your previous employers are in the best position to write about your work ethics and skills. Including them means you have a good working relationship with them and would speak well to your new employer.
2. Associates
Your co-workers are good substitutes to add to your list of references. They are familiar with your work and have directly or indirectly worked with you on several projects. They understand your job responsibilities and can stand in the position of giving you the professional reference you need.
3. Mentors/Teachers
Instructors or lecturers who have taught you in a field related to the job you are applying for make excellent references. Thankfully, they are always happy and readily available to give you a reference when needed. However, it would be easier, if they have met you personally more than a face in the lecture room. Nonetheless, reach out to them.
4. Volunteer Lead
For as many that engage in volunteering, your go-to person for a good professional reference is from the people you are volunteering for. Plus, humanitarian activities done willingly are impressive to Human resource managers. In a way, it reveals the extent you go beyond what is expected of you which increases your chances of being hired.
Conclusion
Have it in mind that good friends do not automatically make good referees. Note that, you are seeking friends who can speak highly of your work opinion and also highlight your personal attributes that help you land a new job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question1: What is the minimum amount of time you should know someone before asking for a job reference?
Answer 1: It is best to know your reference for at least six months. However, the crucial fact is how well they can speak about your workability.
Question 2: Do employers ever call references?
Answer 2: Sometimes yes, sometimes no but then again expect all references should be checked.
Question 3: Can I use friends from school as personal references on a job application?
Answer 3: Yes, your schoolmates can serve as personal references though you must be sure they can give you the best reference.
Question 4: Since I don’t have any friends is it okay to write a reference letter by yourself?
Answer 4: The answer is a resounding NO. A reference letter is supposed to be from someone else giving their opinion about you.
