Description should include

differentiating reference types (e.g., professional, personal, academic)
creating a list of potential references familiar with the individual in various settings

non-relatives, especially community leaders
educators and coaches
managers or supervisors
volunteer coordinators
contacts working in the same field or for the same employer where the individual wants to work

requesting permission from the listed persons
completing these steps while allowing enough time before the reference is needed.

Process/Skill Questions:

How should you ask someone to write a letter of reference?
What key information should you provide to those who will be writing your letters of reference?
Why is it important to have a list of professional references and to keep it updated?
Why is it important to get permission from a reference before giving out their contact information?
Who would make a good personal reference, given your career of choice?
What makes teachers, counselors, and coaches good references?
Why would an employer request a reference letter for a potential candidate of employment?