With all that said, it can be argued if you should always provide an employer with references before they ask. There are two ways to present a letter of recommendation to a prospective employer: one way is to state at the bottom of your resume that your letters of recommendation and references are available upon request. In this scenario, you would take your letter of recommendation and reference sheet (contained in a professional portfolio, folder or brief case) to the interview, and then present it during the interview (only if it is requested). The second way to present a letter of recommendation, and most commonly used, is to enclose it along with your resume during initial mailing. Please, send no more than two letters of recommendation. It is better not to overwhelm a potential employer with a lot of information to read (and of course, always send a copy of your letters, not the originals). A good word from your past employer can give you the added advantage you need, especially when your skills and the companies needs are the same.

The Bottom Line: We think that a letter of recommendation is a great way to get an employers attention in certain cases. Never give an employer a reference unless you are 100% sure that your reference is ready to respond in a manner that will help you. Make sure you left the reference under good terms and make sure they feel the same say. We always say that each circumstance is different and only present a reference list when the employer requests one or you see a positive value in it. If neither of these two things are clear then it usually best to stick with the interview and basic resume.

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