TIPS AND NEWS
Home Tips and News Professional References: Who t...
September 22, 2026
Professional References: Who to Ask and How
By: The Look Jobs Team
In the U.S., employers often call two or three references before making an offer. The practice is growing in Brazil and Mexico too, especially for senior roles.
Who to choose
- Former managers or direct supervisors.
- Coworkers who worked closely with you.
- Teachers or mentors, if this is your first job.
Avoid family and friends. Employers want to hear from someone who has seen you work.
How to ask
- Ask before you share their contact info. Nobody likes to be caught off guard.
- Tell them about the role and what would be helpful to highlight.
- Confirm their preferred phone or email, and which language they're comfortable speaking.
- Thank them afterward and let them know how it went.
Tip for jobs abroad
If the job is in another country, try to have at least one reference who speaks the employer's language. If you don't, let the recruiter know. Many employers accept a written reference by email.
Related articles
-
October 9, 2026
How to work legally in the U.S.: the main pathways
See more -
October 8, 2026
H-2A and H-2B visas: how temporary work in the U.S. works
See more -
October 7, 2026
TN visa: how Mexican and Canadian professionals can work in the U.S.
See more -
September 28, 2026
How to Write a U.S.-Style Resume That Gets Noticed
See more
© 2012–2026 Look Jobs. All rights reserved.
Look Jobs is a service of Conexão Centro de Avaliação Psicológica e Desenvolvimento Humano Ltda · CNPJ 31.123.575/0001-25 · Rua Guerino Fontana, 335, Sala 1 – Bom Jesus – Curitibanos/SC – CEP 89520-000