What do you do when you can’t think of anyone to list as a reference? When you can’t think, try thinking of people you have worked with in the past who can vouch for your attitude and work ethic. If you can’t think of anyone from your professional life, you could try reaching out to a teacher, coach, or mentor who knows you well.

Finally, you will want to ensure that your references are available and willing to speak to potential employers. Once you have chosen your references, be sure to let them know that you will be using them as a reference, and provide them with any information they may need, such as your resume or the job listing.

Here’s a more specific look at the references you should put on your resume when applying through employment agencies:

A Past Boss

Your former boss is the best person to speak to your work ethic. If you do not include them on your reference list, it gives the impression that you do not want your future employer to contact them.

Explain why you have chosen not to include your employer as a reference. You may not want your present manager or boss to know you are looking for a new job. In this case, include at least one other person from your current job.

Educators

It’s always a good idea to ask a professor for a reference, especially if they’re in a field related to the role you’re applying for. However, your professor may not feel as comfortable acting as your reference if they don’t know you very well, so note down those with whom you’ve had a real kinship before when looking for a job through employment agencies.

Past or Present Coworkers 

Your coworkers are the people you work with daily. They are the ones you rely on to help you get your job done and support your career. So if you’re not getting along with your boss, try to find a coworker who is familiar with your work and who you have worked directly with when applying through an employment agency. A work friend who doesn’t understand your job responsibilities probably won’t be able to give you the professional reference you need.

Professional Friends 

It’s often said to keep your friends close and enemies closer. But what about when it comes to professional references? Should you keep them close, too?

The answer is yes—but only for friends and if those friends will be a positive reference for you. In other words, only use friends as professional references if they will say good things about you to a potential employer.

If you’re unsure whether a friend would make a good reference, it’s better to be careful and not mention them. After all, a bad reference could end up costing you a job opportunity.

In summary, use a friend as a professional reference if they will say good things about you. If not, it’s probably best to find someone else to list as a reference.

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