Supplying names of people who haven't worked directly with you on the job isn't going to score you an interview. Rather, craft your reference list from authoritative resources who know your accomplishments. For example, utilize people like your associate who understands how you saved your company a million dollars last year. Authoritative references not only show potential employers that you care about supplying detail, but that you cut to the bottom line. They'll see you as efficient and professional.

References Should Have First-Hand Knowledge

You've targeted your resume to hone in on the job you want. Your job references should supplement that effort, targeting specific skills and accomplishments they've witnessed from working directly with you. Think of your references more as recommendations. Give them permission to supply more than your basic duties and dates of employment, if allowed by your company. Potential employers often ask references specifically about reliability and work habits. Present your references professionally, formatted correctly and free of spelling, grammar and content error.