References in Ireland

When you apply for a job in Ireland, you will typically be asked to provide two references to the potential employers to support the information in your job application. Your referees (people who give you references) have to be available to speak about your performance, attitude and personality, so that the potential employer can make sure you will be a good fit for their company.

You can give reference letters but generally employers in Ireland prefer to make contact with the referees before making a job offer. You will have to give prospective employers the contact details of your referees, so it is important to talk to your referees before going for an interview.

Employers prefer a reference from a manager or someone who supervised your work. They may accept references from a volunteer/traineeship position. Choose a referee with care; someone who will say good things about you.

One character reference from a school, community organisation, or even bank or landlord can be accepted. In some cases you can have one reference from a friend if she/he works in the organisation but in general referees have to have some authority.

Foreign reference letters should be translated and your referees should be able to speak English. It is useful to give e-mail addresses for foreign referees. You should get at least one Irish reference if you can, as most Irish employers (especially smaller organisations) feel more
comfortable with Irish references.