References Available

I'm in the process of applying for a mentorship program for inner-city kids, and one of the questions on my application is that I need to have four references.  I'm a big fan of the thinking that if you network correctly, your next job will just come to you -- usually without the need of resumes or references.  However, in order to do that, you need references/contacts within the company you intend to work for next.  Suffice it to say, I think references are crucial to job success -- and can make or break you when it comes to getting a job (or whatever you're applying for). So while I'm compiling my list of references, I thought I'd pass on my tips for choosing good references:

1) Big name people are impressive.  Titles like "President" and "CEO" certainly don't hurt.  If big-time successful people will put their stamp of approval on you, you're probably doing ok.

2) Choose people who see you every day -- or as often as possible. The better the person knows you, the better qualified they are to be a reference for you and speak to you being a solid individual every day of the week.

3) Choose people who are passionate.  If them being a reference for you is sort of a waste of their time, chances are, that will come across when they speak to the person calling them.  However, if the person who is your reference is passionate about giving you a stellar referral, that passion will come across and help sell you in.

4) If you can, find a referral that is someone that the person calling about you respects.  If you have a mutual aquaintance, or business partner, use them.  If they know and trust the person giving the referral, then you're that much closer to being "in".

5) Build as many positive reference sources as possible.  Being able to pick and choose the right mix of the top four criteria to impress the specific situation you desire can make or break your chances.

6) Above all else, be someone worth referring.  Work hard.  Be smart.  Make good decisions.  Be kind.  Every day.  If you don't have that going for you, the rest of it doesn't matter.