How to Choose Good Personal References
Selecting personal references may seem like a simple part of the police hiring process, but choosing the right people can make a meaningful difference.
Many applicants ask:
"Who should I list as my personal references?"
Your personal references help background investigators gain a better understanding of your character, integrity, and reputation. Choosing individuals who know you well and can honestly speak about your qualifications is an important step in completing your application.
Why Are Personal References Important?
Law enforcement agencies want to hire individuals who demonstrate honesty, responsibility, maturity, and good judgment.
While your application provides information about your education and employment history, your personal references offer insight into who you are as a person.
Background investigators may contact your references to verify information and learn more about your character.
Who Makes a Good Personal Reference?
The best references are people who know you well and have known you for a significant period of time.
Examples include:
Long-time friends
Former supervisors
Coaches
Teachers or professors
Military supervisors
Community leaders
Volunteer coordinators
Mentors
The strongest references are people who can provide specific examples of your character rather than simply saying, "They're a good person."
Choose People Who Know You Well
A common mistake is choosing someone based solely on their job title.
For example, listing a police officer, business owner, or military commander who barely knows you is often less helpful than listing a supervisor or mentor who has worked closely with you for several years.
Quality is usually more important than status.
Ask Before Listing Someone
Never assume someone is willing to serve as a reference.
Before submitting your application:
Ask for their permission.
Explain that you're applying for a law enforcement position.
Let them know they may be contacted by a background investigator.
Confirm that their phone number and email address are current.
Giving your references advance notice helps them prepare and prevents missed phone calls or unexpected surprises.
Keep Your Contact Information Updated
One of the most common reasons background investigations are delayed is outdated contact information.
Double-check each reference's:
Phone number
Email address
Home address (if required)
Employer
Relationship to you
Accurate information helps investigators complete their work more efficiently.
Tell Your References What to Expect
Once you've listed someone as a reference, keep them informed.
Let them know:
Which agency you're applying to
That they may receive a phone call or email
Approximately when they may be contacted
This helps ensure they recognize the importance of responding promptly.
Be Honest About Your Relationships
Never exaggerate how long you've known someone or the nature of your relationship.
Investigators often ask detailed questions, and inconsistencies can create unnecessary concerns.
Honesty and accuracy are always the best approach.
Tips for Choosing Strong References
✔ Select people who know you well.
✔ Choose individuals with firsthand knowledge of your character.
✔ Ask for permission before listing them.
✔ Verify all contact information.
✔ Inform them about the hiring process.
✔ Keep your information accurate and up to date.
Final Thoughts
Your personal references play an important role in helping investigators understand who you are beyond your application.
Choose individuals who can genuinely speak about your integrity, responsibility, and character.
Preparing your references ahead of time and ensuring their information is accurate can help keep your background investigation moving smoothly.
Like every step in the hiring process, attention to detail and honesty can go a long way toward presenting yourself as a well-prepared and professional applicant.
