Job References: Who to Choose and How Not to Blow It

When you're job hunting in Gippsland, there's one sneaky little detail that can make or break your chances — your references.

Yep, those two or three people at the bottom of your résumé aren’t just for show. Employers do call them. And what they say matters. A lot.

So let’s break it down. Quick, fun, no fluff — just what you need to know to pick the right people and use them well.

Why References Matter

Think of references as your personal cheer squad. They've seen you in action — working, problem-solving, maybe even making a mean cuppa for the team.

📞 When a potential employer calls them, they're not just ticking a box. They're listening for things like:

• Can this person actually do what they say?
• Will they turn up on time?
• Are they going to fit into our team without causing chaos?

A solid reference backs up everything you’ve said about yourself — and adds trust.

Who Should You Choose?

Great references aren't just people you got along with. They’re people who can confidently speak to your work ethic, skills, and character.

🎯 Aim for:

• Former managers or supervisors
• Senior colleagues or team leads
• Clients (if you were freelancing or self-employed)
• Volunteer coordinators (if you're new to the workforce)

🚫 Avoid:

• Your mum, your mate Steve, or your neighbour who once saw you fix a lawnmower.
• Your mate Dazza who once helped you move a couch and said you “worked like a trooper.”
• Academic mentors (unless you’re applying for a graduate or research role).

Let Them Know!

Big one here: always tell your references in advance.

It’s awkward for everyone if they get a call out of the blue and don’t know what you’ve applied for. And it’s really awkward if they can’t even remember who you are. 😬

So give them a quick heads-up. Something like:

“Hey Julie, just letting you know I’ve applied for a retail assistant role at Big Country Outdoors in Sale. They might give you a call. I thought of you because we worked closely at the checkout at Foodworks. Hope that’s okay!”

Letting them know gives them a moment to recall your golden moments and talk you up properly.

Don’t Forget to Say Thanks

Once you've landed the role (or even just moved a step forward), shoot your reference a thank-you message.

You don’t have to write them a love letter. Just a simple:

“Thanks again for being my reference – I really appreciate it.”

It keeps the relationship warm, and you never know when you might need them again. Gippsland’s a big place, but word travels fast.

Quick Tips Recap 🎯

✅ Choose people who know your work
✅ Let them know about the job and give them context
✅ Keep their contact details up to date
✅ Say thanks

Whether you’re applying for a nursing role in Traralgon, a barista gig in Lakes Entrance, or a tradie job in Moe — getting your references sorted is a simple way to stand out (in a good way).

And hey, if you’re ready to find that next gig, check out what’s going on across Gippsland:
👉 Browse local jobs here