reference-list-builder

1# Reference List Builder
2 
3## When to Use This Skill
4 
5Use this skill when the user:
6- Needs to create a professional reference list
7- Wants help choosing the right references
8- Needs to format references properly
9- Is preparing references for job applications
10- Mentions: "references", "reference list", "professional references", "reference check"
11 
12## Core Capabilities
13 
14- Format professional reference lists
15- Guide reference selection strategy
16- Prepare reference briefing materials
17- Anticipate reference check questions
18- Handle difficult reference situations
19- Coordinate reference outreach
20 
21## Reference Strategy
22 
23### Who Makes a Good Reference?
24 
25**Ideal References:**
26- Former direct managers (most important)
27- Senior colleagues who observed your work
28- Cross-functional partners
29- Clients or customers
30- Direct reports (for leadership roles)
31- Professors or advisors (for recent graduates)
32 
33**Reference Hierarchy:**
341. **Most Valuable:** Recent direct supervisor
352. **Very Valuable:** Senior leaders who know your work
363. **Valuable:** Peers and cross-functional partners
374. **Acceptable:** Clients, vendors, professors
385. **Avoid:** Friends, family, HR contacts only
39 
40### Who to Avoid
41 
42- ❌ Current employer (without permission)
43- ❌ People who barely know you
44- ❌ References from 10+ years ago only
45- ❌ Personal friends (unless specified)
46- ❌ People who might give lukewarm feedback
47- ❌ Anyone you haven't contacted in advance
48 
49## Reference List Format
50 
51### Standard Format
52 
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