The recommended number of phone reference people is between four and six, and you should secure at least three to four solid letters of recommendation. Most people already know that they need a list of professional references. But you might be asking, "Why do I need letters of recommendation at this point in my career?" The answer is simple: When you find yourself in a competitive interviewing situation (and what interviewing situation is not competitive?), letters of recommendation can really help push you over the top. In other words, when two or more candidates are equally qualified, the one who provides strong letters of recommendation at the later stages of the interview process will get the offer. So why not have this extra ammunition in your arsenal?
Make a list of all the people you know who would vouch for you and lend support in your job search. (These must be people who know you professionally, not friends and relatives.)
Separate them into two categories—one group to write letters of recommendation and the other to appear on your list of professional references.
Call and ask them all for their help, stating exactly what you want them to do, and soliciting their participation.
Send them each a packet, including these four items: Cover Letter, Professional Biography, Resume, and Target Company List (your cover letter includes a bullet list of the specific attributes or experiences you want them to focus on in their letter or phone call). It's a good idea to send an e-mail with attachments, and also hard copies via U.S. mail. Note: the cover letter you send to the letter writers will be slightly different from the letter you send to the phone reference people.
Follow up to be sure they received everything and that they fully understand your documents.
Tell the phone reference people to inform you immediately when they receive any calls from target companies. (Knowing this will be very valuable to you.)
Tell the letter writers that you want to review their rough drafts and check them for accuracy. You'll have the chance to make minor edits and corrections. Give them a specific date by which they must send you their first drafts.
Offer to help each of these participants in a similar capacity, should the need ever arise.
Note
When you find yourself in a competitive interviewing situation, letters of recommendation can really help to push you over the top.