The information you put down in your resume, and the statements you make during your interview, are just that-yours. References, on the other hand, provide objective validation to what you've stated. For example, if you've stated on your resume that you're a team player, a reference should be able to either confirm or deny this information.

Employers are being more and more cautious about hiring decisions out of basic business necessity because they can be held liable for negligent hiring. What does this mean for the job seeker? Those with the best references will be getting the offers. Here are a few tips to take to heart when compiling your list of references:

• Use references that are familiar with, and can vouch for, your work-related abilities. This includes former supervisors, colleagues, or subordinates. Other excellent choices are former customers or clients, former professors, or professional colleagues from work-related associations. You should not use friends, relatives, members of your church or political affiliations, or references who do not have firsthand knowledge of your work-related abilities.
• Always make sure that you ask the reference before naming him or her as a contact. Never assume that it is okay to list someone before getting permission. You don't want your reference to be unprepared, or worse, not remember who you are when a prospective employer calls.
• Always confirm that you have the correct contact information for your reference. This includes the correct spelling of his or her name, title, address, and phone number. Always get express permission to list your reference's home telephone number or address before doing so.
• Supply your reference with a recent copy of your resume, and tell him or her about the types of positions you are applying for. You may also want to remind your reference about some of your recent work-related accomplishments, so that this information is fresh in their mind when a prospective employer calls.
• Provide your list of references to prospective employers on a separate sheet of paper (preferably the same type of paper that was used for your resume). The list should include: your references' names, titles, contact information and a brief statement about your relationship to the reference.

Remember, a good resume will get you an interview, but good references will win you the job. You should list people who will provide you with an excellent recommendation, and who can vouch for your work-related knowledge, skills and abilities. Good luck!