When asking for a reference, don't approach someone who may not be open to giving you praise. You might be proud of the company where you used to work – but when it comes to asking for references, tread carefully, especially if your former boss disliked you. One way around this is asking a former colleague, preferably someone with a higher position than the one you had, to pass on the good word. You can also put down non-workplace related references, such as past professors, volunteer coordinators and people you've helped out in a professional manner.

Before giving out your references' contact info to a potential employer, call your references and make sure this is okay. You can do one better than this by preparing your references for the questions they may be asked. Tell them about the job you're applying for, what requirements are important and what points you would like them to focus on. Remind your reference of the times you really impressed them and make sure to confirm the best times that employers can reach them.

Remember how you told your evil boss what you really think of him at that smashy-drunky Christmas party last year? Before you put his name down as a reference, you might want to talk to him about it first. You know, just to see if he really does have a short-term memory loss. Always check with potential references before giving out their names to ensure that you have the updated title and contact info and will get a good review instead of one that will cost you a job.

Employers don't really check references, do they? Well, yes, they do. In fact, if they ask for three references, they will often check all three. So before you happily type "References Available Upon Request" make sure that they are. It's common sense but do pick people who will give you positive references. Also, call them first to double-check they're still okay with vouching for you and to ensure that they will be there when the future employer calls.