Alan Stutts | Professor | Author

Choosing the Right References

If you are new to the hospitality industry or seeking an entry-level position, your references should speak to your strengths and demonstrate that you have the abilities for work in hospitality. After a few years working in the industry, your references are the people who managed you or worked with you. These people can attest not only to your aptitude and work ethic, but your achievements, your specific skills, and your commitment to the field.

Is the person you are asking to give you a reference familiar with your experience relative to the job for which you are applying? Co-workers can be references; you do not have to list only your former supervisors. Company protocols sometimes forbid employees from giving references about former employees. If this is the case for any of your references, seek out someone who has left the company, but was there when you were there.

When you include someone as a reference on a resume or a job application, know what they will say about you asked. The best way to find out what they will say is to ask them. Call or visit each person you intend to use as a reference. Ask them for permission to use their name. If they yes, ask them to summarize what they will say. If they say no? Ask why not; you may learn some very useful information.