# Job references

Job references are people, usually former managers or close colleagues, who a candidate lists as willing to be contacted about their past work. Two or three is the typical count, and it's separate from a formal reference check, which is the specific step where an employer actually calls them.

Who gets picked matters more than how many.

**Job references** — A reference is someone who can speak directly to a candidate's real work: a former manager describing how they handled a project, a peer describing what it was like working alongside them. Two to three references is typical, listed with contact information and a brief note on the working relationship. A reference who barely remembers the candidate does more harm than good.

The strongest references are people who can speak to recent, relevant work, a direct manager over the last role usually outweighs someone from much earlier in a career. Asking permission before listing someone is standard practice, both out of courtesy and because a reference caught off guard by an unexpected call tends to give a weaker, less prepared answer than one who knew it was coming and had time to think about specifics. Giving each reference a short reminder of what role they're speaking to, and which experiences might come up, also helps.

## Frequently asked questions

### How many references does a candidate typically need?

Two to three is standard for most roles. Some employers ask for more for senior positions, but three well-chosen references usually cover what's needed.

### Should a candidate ask permission before listing someone as a reference?

Yes. It's standard courtesy, and a reference who's expecting the call tends to give a more thoughtful, specific answer than one caught off guard.

### Is a job reference the same as a reference check?

No. A reference is the person being listed; a reference check is the actual step an employer takes to contact them and verify the candidate's work history.

## Related pages

- [Browse open roles](/jobs)

## Prepare the interview stage first

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