Ask someone to be a reference before you apply for a job. Give them time to consider your request, review your resume and the job description and prepare responses to questions the hiring manager may ask. Keep your reference request brief, however, be polite.

When should I ask for references when hiring?

Employers could ask for references at any point in the hiring process. It's usually helpful to prepare a list of references when you first start looking for jobs so you can offer it whenever the employer asks. This shows that you're prepared and eager to get the job.

How long should you know someone before asking them to be a reference?

A common question among job seekers is “How far back can I go to ask people I've worked with before to be references for me?” As a general rule the answer is “not more than five to seven years.”