Improving your job search references

I used to feel a moment of panic whenever the interviewer would ask for my references. Not that I didn't have great references, it's just that I wasn't always prepared.

Since I knew that interviewers would probably not change, I realized I had to become more organized. I put together a file of references with their contact information and what our working relationship was and I always took it with me. One of the first things I did when I was laid off was to contact people I trusted at my employer, thank them for their support over the years and ask if I could use them as a reference.

Here is an article with even more great tips for improving your job search references:
Reference Improvement Guide

Thanks to Dave Templeman of Crossroads Career Ministry for this tip.