References

I've just finished uni, and trying get a job. I already have a part time job which I've been at for nearly 4 years, but now I want a 'real job' to earn more than pocket money. However, I'm stuck on references.....my employer provides a generic address which will issue basic references but this doesn't seem to be enough for employers.

It is silly but I don't want to ask my current manager for a reference, as it's awkward to say I want to leave and I will also get treated differently. I want to avoid asking anyone from work but who else My lecturers at uni probably don't have a clue who I was, and apart from that I don't know many people. I feel like maybe I won't ever get a job as I have no references!

Who on earth can I put down? Family and friends aren't allowed either.

It's accepted that your current employer will give references without being asked first. Nearly everyone faces the issue that they don't want their current employer to know they are looking for another job. As references are usually only taken up once a job offer has been made 'subject to references', you only have your current employer knowing (preferably by you telling them immediately after you get the phone call making the offer) once you have another job to go to.

I wouldn't ever worry about using references that only acknowledge the dates you were employed etc. That's the issue of the employer that asks for references and they know this is an increasing risk. Most professional employers just accept them and hope the second reference is a bit more personal.

You can use university lecturers, if they don't know you then they make up something generic based on your grades and lack of being a 'pita'.

Finally, never give referee details until an employer asks for them. That means if its a CV and covering letter type application, then don't mention them at that stage. If they are asked for on an application form, then don't worry about ticking the 'do not contact without my permission' box, it makes no difference to the selection process.