Putting this here for quick response - references?

[PostManTap]

Sorry not really a chat topic but am completing a job application form with a deadline for tomorrow so need quick answers if possible.

I have a long-term illness so not worked since I left school. Am now early 30's and am just starting to feel like I'd be well enough to try a part-time job so my problem is who do I put down for a reference....

I have done an OU degree since being ill so thinking of putting my latest tutor as one referee, though not sure if they'd do one for me? Who could I put as the other one? The application form states two references needed.

I know its going to look bad that I haven't worked before anyway and haven't got any work history on my CV so I'm feeling a bit useless anyway. I'd just like to be given a chance, it's all I've wanted for so long, to be well enough to work.

Family friend, personal friend? Your tutor is a good idea.
Good Luck

personal question OP but are you well now?

If so I would just be honest & put your tutor as 1 ref (having asked them) and putting another professional person that you know as a personal reference

Have you also considered volunteering? That would give you a good opportunity to add to your experience & add a contact or 2 as references

@DementorsKiss not fully well, I have ME so still struggle with tiredness and other symptoms, that's why I'm only looking for part-time work. But I'm a lot better than I have been, over the last few months especially I have been feeling better than I ever have before. I'm able to go out a few times a week, so feel like I should be able to manage part-time if I can find hours that suit needing days to be able to rest a bit more.

Is it ok to put another person if I haven't worked with them or they don't know me professionally - realise that's my only option! but would they accept recommendation from someone like that?

I don’t know if it’s viable financially for you, but have you thought about starting with some voluntary work?

It would give you a way of finding out how your ME will go with regular commitment, also would give you a reference at the end of it, plus some recent experience, which might help looking for PT work.

I know it’s not viable for everyone though so just ignore if not!

I was self employed so only had one reference and not two and still got the job. Good luck!

@PostManTap - I don't see why you can't put a personal reference down although I would state that it is a personal reference & not a family member.

Thanks everyone. The job I’m applying for is mostly home based (research related to degree) with only needing to go into a university a couple of times so I’m hoping it’s doable for me.

I’ll look into voluntary work if i don’t get through to an interview and will put a personal reference in for now with a little explanation.

Thanks very much for the advice.

I haven't worked for a while either OP and I am having some difficulty with referees as well. I'm doing an application at the moment which wants senior member of staff as referees and not peers - but due to the gap in employment, it is my peers who are the senior members of staff now!

I may look for a temp job over Christmas just to get over this point

My best friend asked me to give a personal reference for a job she went for as she’s mostly only worked for family members since leaving school.

I just had to confirm she was trustworthy, reliable etc. She got the job

Good luck.