In this fiercely competitive job market, references can make or break you as a job candidate. It has been said that there is one job for every six people on the job hunt. So what can you do to make sure you stand out from the competition? Sometimes the answer is what other people have to say about you: your references. The following tips can help you with selecting the best references for your resume.

• Pick relevant people: Hiring managers aren’t interested about all the nice things your grandmother has to say about you. Make sure you select people who can attest to your job skills. Include your former manager, supervisor or co-workers; someone who can confirm all that you bring to the workplace.

• Ask if you can use their name: While you might assume that your references want to help you in any way possible, the truth is that they may not have time to answer questions. If you ask before using references, you can prepare them as to who they should be expecting calls from. By giving them fair warning, they can prepare thoughts instead of saying the first thing that comes to mind, which can only benefit you.

• Follow up with them: If your job search is taking several months, keep contact with your references. Make sure they are still willing to speak about your skills, and ask them if they have been contacted by any of your job prospects. By following up with them every month, you can keep a pulse on your job search and stay fresh in your references' minds.

• Be sure to say “thanks”: This is the last, but one of the more important steps. Write a thank you note to those who have helped you out. Remember, in some cases, their words can make the difference as to which job applicant is selected. You should always say thanks to those who helped during your job search, no matter the outcome.

Hiring managers appreciate candidates that put time and effort into their job search. By carefully selecting, following up with and thanking your references, your chance of standing out among other applicants increases. Make your references speak for you.