Every potential employer will ask you for references.  While a reference can confirm your employment at a company, you want a reference who will get you the job.  Someone who will confirm to your potential employer how great you are.  A reference should be able to speak to how valuable you were.  It's someone who you've worked with on a consistent basis and knew how you impacted the work being done.  It's very important that you pick your references wisely.

It's a new year and time to take charge of your career.  Whether you just got a job or you've been in one for a while, now is the time to make things change.  You can start looking for a new job at a new employer or you can start getting noticed where you are.  Is there a position you want?  Go after it.  Start demonstrating to your supervisors and senior management that you have the potential to move up in the company.  How?