Answer
Perhaps this is your first job. You don't have any employer references because you haven't worked, so you might want to go to a bank that knows you, a Priest that knows you, anyone in good standing within your community who knows you, and ask them for a reference that you could use in finding work.
If your reference has a prior relationship with the potential employer then the contact would make sense. If not, no.
(Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer, nor am I an HR person) My understanding is that if a prospective employer calls your job references, the former employer can only verify the dates of employment.
It is very unlikely that an employer will check your references once you have started the job. Anything is possible, but I can't imagine why the employer would do this at that point. If a prospective employer plans on checking references, it will usually be done after you have been interviewed but before you have been offered the job. As soon as someone wants you out (boss or co-worker),k if they have access, they will use it against you.
It is a good practice to have at least three references ready to provide to an employer. These references should be professional contacts who can speak about your work experience, skills, and character. Make sure to inform your references in advance so they are prepared to speak on your behalf.
Once you are hired you are entitled to see you employee file. Any references should be included in that file; however, most previous employers won't give references.
A reference is someone who knows you and can vouch for you. They are usually another employer or a teacher.
Don't have a prospective employer call your current boss. If your current boss knows you're looking for another job, he/she could fire you! The prospective employer should realize this. Feel free to give earlier job references, of course.
references
The Hyatt has a policy to check references and to run background checks. This policy protects the business and guests alike. Keep in mind that a previous employer can only verify employment and the dates of employment. A former employer can answer "yes" or "no" to the question "would you rehire?" Otherwise, a former employer cannot comment.
It is always best to bring a list of references to an interview. This list should include both personal references and business references. That way the prospective employer can get a good feeling on what type of employee the person will be.
references
Absolutely not. That would be a financing question.