References

As a rule, a list of references is always welcome in a job application. However, do not send letters of recommendation when applying for a job unless it is specifically requested in the application instructions.

Generally, list three people who can attest to your qualifications for a specific position. If you have no professional journalism experience then use your professors as your references. Supervisors from non-journalism positions will not be able to attest to your reporting or writing ability, but they may be able to discuss your outstanding qualities as in your previous career, your commitment to hard work, etc., so it's not a bad idea to include such a reference.

For those who have only worked with one editor, your list may be a combination of professors and employers. Also, it is a good idea to have different reference lists for different positions: a list for television, new media, business, etc. Provide the name, title, place of employment, phone number and email for each reference. A snail-mail address is no longer crucial in today's electronic age. It is important that each person you include know that he/she has been listed as a reference and may be contacted on your behalf.

Below are sample style formats for listing references.

References

Peter Christy
Business Editor
The Morningside Daily Star
914-445-0000
peter_christy@dailystar.com

Craig Wolff
Assistant Professor
Graduate School of Journalism
Columbia University
212-854-3763
ctw6@columbia.edu

References