Letters of recommendation can make or break your ability to get hired. That said, there are several things you can do to help ensure that good references follow your employment trail and are accessible to potential employers. A recommendation letter is one way to do that.

Identify the right references If you have no work history - use personal reference. Teachers, counselors, TAs, or coaches could make strong personal references. Don't forget to ask them first.

Always ask for permission, never assume they'll say yes They may feel uncomfortable or put on the spot. Some companies have policies that prohibit their employees from saying anything but a confirmation of your employment and the dates of your employment.

Help them out Sometimes people can be busy or distracted or forgetful and it's helpful for them to have a list in front of them when they write or talk about you. If they disagree with something you put on the list, they can always leave it out. ( List of your skills, accomplishments and or character traits)

Conduct an exit interview The exit interview will be a good opportunity to go over the company's expectations and how they were met or exceeded your accomplishments. This way leave on a good note and their memory of you will be a positive lasting one.

Don't burn any bridges upon leaving I have done this once and I don't recommend it. Never, complain about any individual or incident, make sure that you make any suggestions positive in tone and content.

You don't need to add references available up request on your resume or cover letter. Employers know they can ask for them.

Keep in touch If you worked for a company that refuses to give a reference because it's against company policy, no worry. It's often possible to contact an employee after they've left a company and get a reference from them. It helps to keep in touch with a former boss or colleagues so you know where and how to reach them.

Keep a list of 4 or 5 references handy so they can quickly be accessible to a prospective employer Their name Their position ( current position) The company (and their current company, if they have left) Their professional relationship to you (ex. Supervisor, Former Boss, Colleague) Their contact information -email and phone

So go ahead and ask for that recommendation letter and nail that job interview!