Using High School Contacts as Job References

I'm applying for my first job, and I'm wondering who from high school could make a good reference. Can I ask my teacher or should it be someone else?

Teachers definitely could serve as job references, especially if they've had a lot of interaction with you over the years and can speak to your work ethic, responsibility, punctuality, and other skills that are applicable to the job you're aiming for. They've seen your dedication, discipline, and how you tackle challenges firsthand.

If you've been involved in clubs, societies, or sports, coaches and club advisors make great references too. They have seen how you function in a team setting, and if you’ve held any leadership position, they can attest to your ability to manage, inspire, and problem-solve.

Avoid using friends or family unless the job specifically requests a character reference. Even in those cases, it is usually preferable to get a character reference from someone who has known you in a professional or academic capacity.

Before you put someone down as a reference, though, be sure to ask their permission and make sure they feel comfortable recommending you. It's also helpful to give them a heads up on what sort of job you're applying for so they can tailor their recommendation accordingly.