When you ask for a reference, both whom and how you ask for this employment reference is really important. You need to be sure that the person who is recommending you for employment is willing and able to give you a good reference. This is critical because your references can be what makes the difference in getting – or not getting – a job offer.
In addition, you shouldn’t give out anyone’s name as a reference without their permission.
The individual who is giving you a reference needs to know ahead of time that they may be contacted regarding a reference for you.