Asking for References

[jackiepeeler]

Looking at a job today that asks for three references. New to Upwork client. Is there a way to use an old client as a reference, without asking them for permission to share contact info, which seems obtrusive? Maybe some way of linking to their feedback on the job I did for them here? I've seen this a couple of times lately, wondered how to respond. (I could add their feedback to my proposal, not identifying person by name, will do that if no better ideas emerge.)

Other thought is to say if you are interesting in working with me, let me know and I will share references (from my non-Upwork references).

[bobafett999 · Accepted solution]

---

@Jacqueline P wrote:

Other thought is to say if you are interesting in working with me, let me know and I will share references (from my non-Upwork references).

---

 That is a better response.  The buyer might be collecting e-mails/phone numbers.  I have seen job postings for VAs in which the main task was to collect such information and spam them.

[jackiepeeler]

Thanks, great advice. ! would not have thought of that.

[felixmena]

Hi Jacqueline,

You may take advantage of the Work History and Feedback from your profile by encouraging clients to verify your excellent feedback as reference.

This will give clients an insight of your professionalism and keep spammers away.

[tlsanders]

I wouldn't even provide them. I'd just link back to my profile with a note saying that they could find feedback and ratings from dozens of past clients there. Chances are it's a cut-and-paste job ad that is also going on sites like Craigslist that don't offer ratings and histories.