I’ve been told by job seekers that prospective employers are doing less reference checking, but if you are asked to provide references there is an approach that can best advance your search:
People who offer to give references have your best interests in mind, but it’s often helpful to provide them information about your job search and the company that is asking for your reference.
You can do that by sending your reference information about the job for which you are applying. It’s also helpful to send the reference a copy of your resume and highlight the experiences or successes you think might be particularly valuable for the reference to discuss with a potential employer.
This communication can be particularly helpful for someone who hasn’t worked with you for a time and isn’t as familiar with your recent activities.
As a person who has given references, it is always a relief if I receive this kind of information. I’m in a much better position to provide truthful and helpful information to the potential employer.
There is often a feeling that as job seekers we don’t have a lot of control, and that’s true. This is something you can have some control over—help your references to best tell your story.
Mark Hirschfeld 
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