Who do I ask for a reference after a layoff? - 13 weeks in

I worry a reference will only confirm dates of employment. There are 11 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. I have one former client who liked my work. How do you ask politely?

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.

Ask former colleagues and supervisors in a short message and give them a summary of the job you are applying for.