What kind of people make good job references?
Your boss is best. Your immediate colleagues next.
If you’re applying for a management position, then a former underling.
And for non-co-workers?
a former teacher or professor would be a good reference
Professional References: Immediate Supervisor or coworkers
Note: Many firms prohibit references to basically employment date confirmations, and nothing more. If you are able to get a direct supervisor on line, they may offer some additional info in an “off the record” mode. Most important question: Would you rehire for a similar position.
Personal References: Rarely given much gravity
You should also not use a family member as a reference.
I’ve always thought references to be somewhat silly. Naturally you’re going to choose someone who will speak kindly of you. Prospective employers should just check with previous supervisors if they want to know something.
One would think so, but that’s clearly not the case. I’ve been in the recruiting biz since the early 80s and people list references assuming they’ll only say positive things - which is not true a larger % of the time than one would think.
As I stated before, most large corporations have policies in place that prohibit supervisors from giving any type of reference (on the record).
Depending on the company, your pastor or the volunteer coordinator at the non-profit you help out with can be good.
On my list of job references, I also have former co-workers. This is especially handy when I don’t want my current employer knowing that I’m looking or don’t want to put current colleagues on the spot.
If you’ve done any contracting or volunteering, you might have some references there too.
If you have copies of really glowing reviews, can you use them somehow?
StG