14 Types of References

Consider the following types of references, remembering that the more professional references you provide the better.

  • Professional or employment references include past supervisors or managers, co-op employers, and field placement, practicum, or internship supervisors.
    They can speak about your specific employment experience. You can also list people whom you have performed paid or voluntary activities for which could include babysitting, lawn mowing, or other odd jobs.
  • Character or personal references include teachers, professors, coworkers, neighbours, community members, or friends.
    They can attest to your character and your abilities outside of work. This type of reference is sometimes more commonly used by current students, recent graduates, or those with limited working experience. Do not provide relatives or family members as your references.
Unless otherwise indicated, this chapter is an adaptation of Be the Boss of Your Career: A Complete Guide for Students & Grads by Lindsay Bortot and Employment Support Centre, Algonquin College, and is used under a CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 International license.

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