Duh ! Not food related

[matt]

I am filling out applications. The one I have from William Sonoma asks for two professional references. I am not sure what they mean by that. Does that mean former employers or people that I know that are professionals. Can I use former professors? Any ideas would be great, no one has been able understand what they mean by that. thanks matt

[emilycat]

I would assume that this means any reference you know in your professional realm, whether that be school or a former job. I imagine they just don't want you to use your mom's best friend, say, or an uncle, so that their opinion of you is unbiased.
Does that make sense?

And by the way, good luck with your job-hunting! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

Matt, hope this helps- I usually put down former co-workers as professional references or, if you had a great relationship with a former manager, I'd use that, too. I think what they're looking for is someone who has seen how you perform in a working environment. If you don't have any prior work experience or co-workers that you would mention, I don't see why you couldn't use a professor. After all, going to college is like having a full time job (and then some).
Good luck!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[matt]

just trying to bump it up

[KValley]

Hi Matt,

Whomever you do use (and I second emilycat's and Mrs Reber's suggestions), do ask them first if you can use them as references and provide them with a copy of your resume and of the job description- that way they can tailor their letter or oral discussion of your experiences and abilities to the job and highlight your accomplishments.

After you accept the job offer from W-S http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif, make certain to send a thank you to your references- these are relationships you will want to cultivate and maintain. This may not be your career job, but it's important to get started on the right foot and take the opportunity seriously.

Thus endeth today's lesson. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[luv2cook]

hey, if he gets the job at WS, he can get us good discounts http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[matt]

Thank you guys for the resposes, i really appreciate all responses that you guys have given me. matt