You should include at least three letters of recommendation. A good reference is a person who would speak highly of you and your employability skills (i.e. dependability, communications, problem solving, collaboration and organizational skills). The best references are past employers or supervisors. If you don't have an employer as a reference, then use teachers, coaches, club advisers, etc. It is generally a bad idea to use friends or relatives as references.

You will need to formally ask for a letter—by phone, in writing, or face-to-face—from each person from whom you want a letter of recommendation. This is common courtesy. Although the content of the letter is normally left to the writer, here are some points to suggest:

• • Your personal character.
• • Your work ethic (including punctuality, use of sick time, working with others).
• • Your motivation.
• • Your enthusiasm for learning.
• • Your relevant technical or career-related skills.
• • Your relevant academic experience.

You should explain to the writer that you will include the letter in your portfolio, which you will use as you conduct your job search or college application process.

Also explain the time frame for completing the portfolio and ask each writer to complete the letter by a specific date. Finally, either make arrangements with each person to pick up the letter yourself or provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope. This courtesy will help ensure that you have your letters on time. Once you have received a letter, you should thank the writer, either in person or by writing a thank-you note.