Convincing: How to score points with work samples and references

Imagine you could showcase your professional skills and experience like a shop window, where all potential employers stroll past and marvel. This is exactly what you can achieve by learning how to present your work samples and references in a professional manner. In this guide, we'll show you how to attract attention.

What are references?

Want to prove to someone that you're great at your job? This is exactly where references come into play. 

These are basically recommendations from people who have already worked with you. They say to future superiors: "Yes, this person does their job really well!" 

A reference can come from a former manager, client or even a customer.

What are the most common types of references? 

When it comes to references, there are two main types that play an important role in applications: the employer reference and the letter of recommendation. 

• Job reference: The job reference is a formal document that describes your performance and conduct with a previous employer. It is automatically issued at the end of an employment relationship and often follows a standardized form that evaluates your professional skills.
• Letter of recommendation: In contrast to the job reference, the letter of recommendation is a personal recommendation that highlights your soft skills and professional strengths. It is voluntary and offers an individual insight into your character and working style.
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How do you use references correctly?

• Who to ask? It's best to ask former superiors, colleagues or customers who really know what you can do. They should be able to talk about your strengths.
• Prepare: Let your references know that they may be called. It helps if they can remember specific projects that demonstrate your skills.
• Pass on contact details: Only share the contacts of your references with their permission. 

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What is a work sample?

Work samples are your personal exhibition that shows what you can do in your job. They are proof of your skills and knowledge. For an electrician, for example, this could be the documentation of a tricky installation, for a cleaning specialist before and after photos of a major clean.

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How do you choose and use work samples effectively?

• Selection of projects: Choose work that shows what you are particularly good at. Quality beats quantity.
• Documentation: Take photos or videos of your projects. Good pictures show your work in the best light.
• Description: Every work sample includes a story. What was the task and how did you solve it? Explain this - this not only shows your skills, but also how you approach problems.

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How do you incorporate all this into your application?

Quality before quantity - that also applies here. Choose what best suits the job advertisement. You can list references in your CV under "References" with contacts, mention them in your cover letter or send a separate letter of recommendation. 

Here you can see an example of this:

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You can attach samples of your work to your application. Create a separate document for this and include images with a brief description of the project. Please note that creating a new work sample can be very time-consuming. You should therefore always ask yourself whether it is worth putting in the time and energy for you and this job. 

Suitable work samples are for example:

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And how do you get these references and work samples?

The best way to get good references is to keep in touch with people who know and appreciate your work. If you ask them for a reference, be nice and explain why you chose them. They can write you a letter of recommendation or give you their contact details to talk to potential new supervisors. Most will be happy to help if they think you are doing a good job.

To present your work samples, start recording your work. Take photos of your work and write down important successes. Feedback from customers or colleagues is also very valuable.

Now that you know everything, it's time to take your next step. 

With WorkerHero, applying is child's play: no need for a cover letter, simply create your CV in a few minutes and apply with one click. You don't have to submit references or work samples, but you can always score points with them. If you are unsure which documents make sense, our career advisors can help you. They will help you select and upload your documents - it's easy and stress-free.

Register with WorkerHero now and apply for your next dream job easily and effectively. With our experts at your side, you can optimize your application in no time at all.

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