Getting your first job can be a challenge, especially when employers ask for references for your CV. Many job seekers worry about this because they don’t have previous work experience. However, references don’t always have to come from past employers. You can still prove your skills, character, and reliability by choosing the right people to vouch for you.
This guide will help you find the best references for your CV even if you have never worked before. We’ll explore different sources, the best ways to ask for a reference, and how to use them effectively.
Why Are References Important for Your CV?
Employers request references for your CV to verify your abilities, work ethic, and character. A good reference can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of getting hired.
There are two types of references:
- Professional References – From people you have worked with in a professional setting (e.g., employers, colleagues, or mentors).
- Character References – From individuals who can speak about your personality, attitude, and soft skills.
Since you don’t have work experience, your focus should be on character references for your CV.
Who Can Provide References for Your CV?
If you’ve never worked before, you can still get strong references for your CV from different areas of your life. Here are some good sources:
a) Teachers or Professors
If you have recently finished school or college, your teachers or lecturers can serve as references. They can talk about your discipline, ability to learn, teamwork, and commitment.
Example: A lecturer might describe how you consistently met deadlines and worked well in group projects.
b) Community Leaders or Religious Leaders
If you’ve been active in a community group, church, or youth organization, a leader can provide references for your CV. They can talk about your responsibility, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Example: A pastor or community leader can mention your dedication to organizing events and helping others.
c) Volunteer Work Coordinators
If you have done any volunteer work, even if it was informal, the coordinator can provide a strong reference.
Example: A supervisor at a charity organization can confirm your commitment and teamwork.
d) Coaches or Sports Team Managers
If you played sports in school or your community, your coach can be a reference. They can highlight your teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.
Example: A soccer coach might describe how you remained committed to training and inspired your teammates.
e) Family Friends or Mentors
A professional family friend or mentor who has seen you take responsibility, such as managing family business tasks, tutoring, or assisting with projects, can also provide references for your CV.
Example: A family friend who owns a business might describe how you assisted with managing a small project.
f) Internship or Training Supervisors
Even unpaid internships or training programs count as experience. If you’ve completed any form of training, your supervisor can provide references for your CV.
Example: A supervisor from a skills development program can confirm your reliability and willingness to learn.
How to Ask for References for Your CV
Once you’ve identified potential referees, it’s important to ask them professionally. Here’s how:
a) Choose the Right People
Make sure the person knows you well and has positive things to say about you. They should be able to describe your skills and strengths.
b) Ask Politely
Always ask for a reference respectfully. If possible, meet the person in person or call them instead of just sending a message.
Example Request:
“Hi [Name], I’m applying for a job, and they require references. Since you’ve seen my skills and work ethic, I was wondering if you’d be willing to provide a reference for me?”
c) Provide Important Details
Tell them about the job you’re applying for and what the employer is looking for. This will help them provide a relevant reference.
d) Thank Them
Always appreciate their help. If they agree, follow up with a thank-you message.
How to Use References for Your CV Effectively
Once you have your references, here’s how to present them properly:
a) Create a Reference List
Most employers ask for references separately, so prepare a list including:
- Referee’s full name
- Their relationship to you
- Contact details (phone/email)
- A short note about your connection with them
Example:
John Smith
Former Volunteer Supervisor at XYZ Organization
Phone: 081-234-5678
Email: john.smith@example.com
Relationship: Supervised my volunteer work at XYZ Organization in 2022.
b) Ask for a Written Reference Letter
Some employers prefer written references. If possible, ask your referees for a reference letter that you can submit with your application.
c) Inform Your References in Advance
If you provide their contact details to an employer, let them know in advance so they’re prepared when called.
d) Keep References Relevant
Use references who can highlight the skills needed for the specific job you’re applying for.
Related: How to Write a CV With No Experience in 2025 (Examples)
What If You Can’t Find Any References for Your CV?
If you don’t have anyone to list as a reference, here are a few alternatives:
a) Build References Through Volunteering
Look for short-term volunteer opportunities to gain experience and get references.
b) Take Online Courses with Certifications
Some online learning platforms offer certificates and mentorship programs, which can provide references.
c) Participate in Community Projects
Engaging in local projects can help you build connections and get references.
Related: 20 Entry-Level Jobs Perfect for First-Time Job Seekers in 2025
Even if you don’t have work experience, you can still get strong references for your CV by looking in the right places. Teachers, community leaders, volunteer coordinators, and family friends can all provide valuable references.
Always ask politely, keep your references updated, and inform them when applying for jobs. With the right approach, your references can help you secure your first job.
