Resumes, letters of recommendation, and references are standard aspects of a job application in many different industries, including domestic staffing. These components of an application also make it very important to maintain good relationships with former employers, as well as professional and personal associates.
Here is some advice targeted at domestic staff professionals about how to ask for a letter of recommendation from past employers and choose the right references to put on a resume. Having the right support behind your resume can make all the difference in securing the job of your dreams.
Purpose of a Letter of Recommendation for Housekeeper and Other Staff
A letter of recommendation should provide an expert testimony about your work and serve as a personal voucher for your past job performance. This letter should describe your capabilities, personal qualities, and work tasks that have been performed in the past. If possible, it should relate closely to the job you are applying for. Letters of recommendation are very important for household staff professionals because they bring credibility to your work, help match you with ideal clients, and assist you in finding a job you’ll love.
How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation
Some people feel awkward asking a former employer for a letter of recommendation, but most employers actually feel honored to do this. If possible, make the request in person, but a phone call or email may suffice if you don’t live close by.
Ask someone who is very familiar with your work and that you left a job on good terms with. Also, ask for the letter at least a month before you need it so that the person doesn’t feel rushed or pressured into writing it quickly. You should also give your former employer a brief description of the type of job you want so that he or she can cater the content accordingly.
How Many Recommendation Letters Do You Need?
As a general rule, it is a good idea to have two or three letters of recommendation on-hand when you’re applying for jobs. One of them may be more relevant to a specific job you’re applying for, or a combination of two or three letters can let potential employers know how well-rounded and experienced you have become through various positions of employment.
Who Can Be a Character Reference?
A character reference can be anyone who knows you well and can speak to your character and personal qualities. This does not have to be a former employer, but it should also not be a family member who would assumedly be biased. Choose a former coworker, trusted friend, teacher, past client, or member of an organization you belong to for your character references.
How to Pick the Best References
You’ll want to choose a reference who comes across (on paper and in conversation) as professional and knowledgeable about your character when applying for jobs. It’s best to choose someone that you have been in touch with recently so that the letter is up-to-date on your current situation and not overly general. It’s a good idea to choose two or three diverse references that can share details about different aspects of your character, such as your personality, work ethic, and community involvement.
At Household Staffing International, you can fill out our online application form right on our website and find resume writing tips here too. As a domestic staffing applicant, we recommend adding a line at the bottom of your resume that states “References available upon request.” But make sure that you really do have references ready to take a call, as well as letters of recommendation on hand to provide, in case one of our clients is instantly interested in hiring you!