When you ask someone to be a reference for a job application, it’s important to provide them with context of your request.
This is because your reference has a particular perspective of you from the time you shared together. If you don’t provide them with context, they may not draw on relevant examples when asked about your suitability for the role.
This also means you should keep your reference informed of every job application that may involve them, rather than leaving them on your resume as a default.
So when you ask someone to be a reference, help them understand why you asked them and what’s involved in the new position so they can respond effectively.
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