References are a part of the job application process that many people seem to neglect and leave to the last minute. But the names on your reference sheet really could make a huge difference to whether or not you're hired to work as a personal nanny or to check valves as a plumbing apprentice. If you're looking for your first job than you may be wondering what sort of people to include on your reference list. Here are some tips for forming the right list of references whether you have been working for years or are just starting out in the job market.

The first key to references is to know that they are going to represent you well when called. When you ask someone to be a personal or professional reference don't just ask them if they can be available if someone calls or can write you a reference letter. You want to ask if they feel that they know you and your work ethic well enough to provide a good reference. A former colleague with commercial mortgage lenders or a boss in a department store might have loved your work but not be the best at articulating that to others. How well they talk about you is just as important as what they have to say.

Choose your references based on the specific job that you are applying for. There are some people, especially those that are applying for several jobs right out of school, who just have a list of references that they use for any job opening that they are applying for. But if you're looking for a job working as a teacher for English as a second language Canada based your potential employers are going to be interested in different skills and strengths than if you're applying to work an entry-level position at an advertising firm. Make sure that each of your references work for each job opening and inform them every time you put them on a reference list.

If you're applying for your first job and don't have a list of former employers to rely on for references there are lots of other places where you can go to find what you need. If you've worked as a volunteer in any capacity this experience can usually transfer into a good reference. If you taught equestrian London Ontario based in the summer, for example, one of your leaders could talk about your communication skills and patience working with kids. You can also use references from you high school or college.

Whether you're applying to work as a secretary or with pneumatic conveying you should always have a reference list ready in your interview. But don't hand it over until you are asked and don't include it with your resume.