Professional Reference Question

[Phoenix84]

I've started applying for jobs at different agencies, and as a result am looking to update my professional references.

I was wondering, do references normally have to come from supiriors/peers, or can it also come from contractors?  Would it be kind of weird to list someone who worked for you, but in your field, as a reference?

It wouldn't be my only reference, but it's kinda hard to come up with a list of names when I have worked independently, and my bosses aren't really part of the field I work in either, and don't really know exactly what I do most of the time.  The contractor is "in the biz" but again, I'm not sure if it's approrpiate to list people like that.

[justme]

You mean to list the references on your resume? Is it required by the agencies? Because I don't have references on my resume.

[Phoenix84]

Apr 21, 2014 12:55:03 GMT -5 justme said:

You mean to list the references on your resume? Is it required by the agencies? Because I don't have references on my resume.

You apply for federal jobs through usajobs.gov.

In that system, they require you to list references, and yes, it goes on your resume that is submitted.  It's kinda weird I know, but it is what it is.

[justme]

Ah, interesting. For references I would probably stick with peers or superiors (whether in the agency or contractors for the agency). Not sure about those that report to you. Is it management jobs you're applying to? I'm not sure whether a hiring manager wants to hear from someone you managed...I could see it going either way (good/bad).

[Phoenix84]

Most of the jobs aren't specifically managing people, but managing complex programs.  I guess it might be relevent if I were to manage other contractors, but I guess I should stick to peers/supiriors.

[raeoflyte]

Is the contractor not a 'peer'?  Since he's in your field and your boss' aren't, I'd be inclined to include him as a technical reference.  

Good luck on the job search!