resume reference page format

How to List References on a Resume [w/ Examples]

You’ve applied for an office position. You can’t wait to get an interview with the HR department.

Everything seems good to go, but now, the HR asked you for a list of your references.

So, how do you do this?

Are you supposed to attach it to your resume? Who do you include in your resume references? Is there a custom format style? 

Well, kick back and relax because we’re here to help answer all your uncertainties!

Read on to learn everything you need to know about listing references on a resume.

• Whether you should or shouldn’t put a reference sheet on your resume.
• How to properly list references on a resume (with pro-tips).
• The best way to format a “References” section.
• Helpful resume references examples.

Should You Include References on a Resume? 

The general common practice that the majority of resume experts agree on is that you should NOT add a list of references to your resume . 

Because, generally, the HR department doesn’t have time to go through every candidate’s list of references. They have a lot more important things to do than reach out to all the references every single candidate ever provided.

That’s why references aren’t requested until after your interview has gone well or right before you are hired.

But here’s the thing: 

That’s not an unshakable no.

If the job description explicitly states that you should include references on your resume, without question, include one! 

This is very straightforward on its own, you’ll know when you see it. 

Some consulting firms, for example, tend to ask for testimonials on your performance from previous employers before they hire you. 

In this case, it's best if you do include the contact information of the people providing you with their positive feedback, so the HR can check how legitimate they are.

Bottom line: 

Every word on your resume should be full of value and quality. References add unnecessary space. Insert them only when required or if you’re asked to submit testimonials.

Want to save time? Get your resume done in under 5 minutes, with our resume builder . Quick and simple, ready-made templates that will do all the work for you.  

How to List References on a Resume [+ Example]

Now, let’s say you’re requested to provide a list of references. 

What’s the best way to display it? 

• Reference's First Name & Last Name - Tim Borden
• Professional Position / Title - Marketing Coordinator
• Name of the Reference's Company - Zen Corporation
• Business Address - Blaine Ave
• City, State, Zip of Company - Atlantic City, NJ, 07030
• Phone Number of Reference - (600) 753 9216
• Email Address of Reference - [email protected]

It’s best to stay ahead of the game. 

Keeping a list of possible references is something that should be done in advance, even when you’re not looking for a job. 

When you’re searching for a new position, you want to have a list of several names to contact. 

You wouldn’t want to struggle coming up with good fits on short notice, would you? 

Here are some more tips to keep in mind: 

You should always start your list with your biggest fan first : your most important and impressive reference. 

And no, this shouldn’t be your mom. Instead, you’d want your previous boss to vouch for you. 

Busy employers may not contact all of your references, but they will likely start at the top of the list. Glowing recommendations shouldn’t be left last!

What’s more, it’s important to clarify your relationship . 

It’s crucial to include what your working relationship to the reference is and how long you’ve known them for. 

But do not overshare . Don’t add more than the items we mentioned on the list unless required. 

And never include the personal mail addresses of your references for two reasons:

They will surely not be contacted via snail mail. 

And they might not want all of their personal information shared. 

Last, but not least:

Choose your references appropriately. 

Always choose the best references for the specific job under consideration. 

Let’s say you want to assert your marketing skills. In this situation, you could seek references from a former boss who can attest to that. Somebody like the Head of Marketing or Chief Marketing Officer . 

How to Format a Resume References Section 

Learning how to arrange a reference section is just as vital as other sections of your resume or cover letter. 

A messy, carelessly formatted reference page will lose your employer's interest. 

So how do you write one that’s eye-catching and professional?

First, put your references on a separate sheet . Add an exclusive reference page, as the last page of your resume. 

Keep the same format for your reference sheet as your resume and cover letter, meaning use the same font, margins, and color scheme. 

• Start off at the very top with your name, address, and phone number. You should place this information on that side of the page that fits the look of your cover letter and resume. (left, right or in the middle).
• Next, write the date. Then start with your employer's information in this specific order: name, job position, company name, and company address.
• Finally, follow up with a preferred title/subtitle: name the section References or Professional References .

If you’ve included personal references as well, you could also add “Personal References” as a subtitle. 

Use the formatting we discussed in the previous section to list your references.

Ditch the common “References available upon request”. 

This is a frequent mistake. Employers formerly know this and it’s an overworked phrase. The general rule of thumb is to keep your resume as brief as possible. Why misuse the space? 

How Many References Should You Include in Your Resume? 

Though there really isn’t a written rule anywhere about how many references you should include, the most fitting number would be three to five . 

Based on your career level though, there is a general division of two groups:

Regular and/or first-time job seekers , should usually provide 3 to 4. 

Whereas people applying for senior roles should include a longer list: about 5 to 7 references. 

In that case, it’s sufficient to list one reference for all the different points in your professional record. 

Who is a Good Reference For Your Resume? 

It’s important that all the references in your resume are all deliberately selected individuals . 

Everyone’s aunt thinks that they are special, but what does your previous manager think about your work ethic?

To figure out who’s a good reference for you, you should take personal experience into consideration: that means what stage in your career you’re currently in. 

Because you’d list different people at different points in your career. 

If you are a student or recent graduate with little to no work practice, you would want to get references from:

• Guidance tutors or counselors
• Course teachers and professors 

Any of these people can speak positively about your best skills, qualities, and experiences. 

When you have some professional background, however, even at an entry-level position , you have more variety in selecting a good reference. 

You could use former colleagues or managers as well as project , master , doctorate supervisors from your most current studies. 

If you are a professional candidate , this process becomes simpler as your preferred references will be more acquainted with giving and requesting references. 

• If you don’t have a lot of professional references to count on, you can reach out to just about anyone that can provide you with a valuable character reference.
• If a friend works in the company you are applying to, you could also use them as a reference.

Other important things you should consider:

• Ask for permission and say thank you. Fill in your references before handing over their contact information to an eventual employer. It’s solely common courtesy. Send them a copy of your resume as well, so that both of you are in harmony for when the manager calls. Don’t forget to be grateful either. If you get the job, take them out on lunch to properly say thank you. Follow up, a little acknowledgment can go a long way! 
• DO NOT use family members. This is unconventional and discouraged. The people you use as references should be unrelated to you, in a familial sense. Of course, our mothers have countless nice things to say about us, but their opinion isn’t relevant on a resume. It might also appear as though you don’t have enough people to vouch for you. 
• Avoid people you’ve confronted. Be careful in not adding individuals you are or have once been in professional conflict with. You can never be too sure if they’re still holding a grudge against you. Play it safe. 
• Make sure they are comfortable. Especially if they’re a person you are currently still working with, confirm they are okay with you searching for a new job. If you’re trying to keep it a secret from your employer though, it’s best not to ask a current coworker at all. You can never know for certain how ethical or pleased with your success one is. 

In the end, the basic point of a reference is for the employers to get a true reflection of your work ethics, background, character, and personality. 

Find people who can properly display all of the above for you.

3+ Good & Bad Resume Reference Sheet Examples

So many rules! 

But don’t worry - we have some great examples for you to help put them into practice: 

GOOD EXAMPLE:

MY BEST AND FAVORITE REFERENCE - inappropriate title 

Martha Payne - a family member as a reference 

2809 Candlelight Drive - including home address

870-294-1238 - wrong listing order, the reference phone number should be second to last

Nursing Assistant - unrelated to your industry or position

Newlife Hospital

4164 Fittro Street 

Lurton, AR, 72848

[email protected]

Martha is my auntie. She’s not only a well-respected member of the community but a remarkable nurse. She was the one who raised me and I consider her my mother. She knows me better than anybody else and I couldn’t have chosen a better person to speak of my character. - prolonged and unprofessional description 

References available upon request - overused unnecessary phrase

• providing them only one reference 

Key Takeaways

Here’s a recap of what we learned in this post:

• References ARE NOT supposed to be on your resume. So when in doubt, DON’T include a list to your resume. 
• On rare occasions though, references may be added on a resume. If you decide to do so, put your list on a separate sheet. Don’t forget to match it to the style of your cover letter and resume.
• Be intelligent with your reference choices. Your number of references should correspond to your career stage. Put your most glowing references on the top. Selected those who are closest to your line of work. Avoid people you’ve ever had professional conflicts with.
• Be diplomatic. Always ask for permission before listing them as references. Email them a copy so that you’re both on the same page. Don’t forget to thank them afterward. 
• Use the correct formatting. List your references precisely as we showed you in this guide. There’s a definite, proper way to arrange entries and the structure of the page itself - don’t contradict it. Use the examples we gave you as a guide.

Suggested readings:

• How to Write a Resume & Land That Job? [21+ Examples]
• What to Put On a Resume [7+ Job-Winning Sections]
• CV vs. Resume - What are the Differences & Definitions [+ Examples]

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How to List References on a Resume in 2022 (with Examples & Tips)

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about including references on a resume, from how to format them to how to know when they should be included at all.

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

Should I Put References on a Resume?

The answer to whether or not to put references on your resume can vary. 

The general rule of thumb when is actually to not include references on your resume .

This is because employers are unlikely to reach to references until the interview phase, making the inclusion of them on an initial resume typically unnecessary.

This does not mean that there are never scenarios in which you will need to know how to properly list references.

For specific jobs and in certain situations, you may be asked or required to include a list of references within or alongside your resume. 

When you need strong references, it's important to structure them so that they stand out and impress the hiring manager, landing you the pivotal interview. 

In this guide, we will be covering the basics of how listing references on your resumes and when to know it’s time to use references.

Plus, we will discuss alternatives to sending references that can help you in situations where sending a reference may be a difficult task. 

How to List References on a Resume

When it comes to listing references on a resume, there are two main ways you can go about it:

1) Make a Dedicated Reference Section

Making a dedicated reference section involves making the space on your existing resume to include a short section with information on your references.

2) Create a Separate Reference Page (recommended)

More often than not, job applicants who have chosen to include references on their resume will do so on an entirely separate page to be included with the resume. 

The second option of listing your references on a separate page is actually the preferred and recommended method.

This is because references are not generally expected to be included on an initial resume and can take up unnecessary space that may be off-putting to hiring managers.

Comparatively, a separate page of references gives the hiring manager the opportunity to look more closely at the information in the resume without becoming visually disoriented by too many sections.

Hint: Not sure how to list other sections of your resume? Check out our Resume Guides to learn more about how to craft each section of your resume. 

When to Put References on a Resume

So, if it is typically not expected to have references included on an initial resume, when is the best time to include references on a resume?

Creating a reference section or page can be necessary depending on a number of situations, including:

• If the employer has specifically requested for references to be included in the job description
• If you have progressed further down the hiring process and have been asked to provide references before or after an interview
• If you are applying to governmental or institutional position, such as a federal job, that will require strong references and a background check

Quick Tip: If you have impressive references, such as a company CEO or another recognizable figure, be sure to make these the most noticeable references and the first ones you list in your reference section. 

Overall, the golden rule is to wait to provide references until they are requested.  

Examples of References on Resumes

Let’s take a look at a few examples of references on resumes to learn more about common mistakes made when crafting a reference and how to correct them. 

It is highly important to include the necessary information to contact a reference – just a name and company is not enough. You should always include at least an official business number and an official business email in your references. 

John Doe CEO of Doe Corporation  123 Avenue Way, New York, NY

John Doe CEO of Doe Corporation 123 Avenue Way (123) 456-9890 [email protected] 

Always be specific when including the reference’s job position or title.

Don’t just list the name of the company without the exact job title to go along with it.

If you are unsure of a reference’s job title, ask them before submitting your references to an employer. 

Jane Smith Works for corporate at Best Buy 42 Wallaby Way (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

Jane Smith Head of Marketing and Sales Best Buy 42 Wallaby Way (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

‍ How to Format a References Section on a Resume

Formatting a reference section will ultimately depend on if it is being created within a larger resume or separately on a different page.

For on-resume reference sections, it is important to keep them as short as possible, potentially even excluding some of the basic information. 

If you are including references directly on a resume, you will likely only want to include one or two of your most relevant and impressive ones in order to not take up too much space. 

When making a separate page for references, you can simply stack them as you would jobs in a work experience section , placing emphasis on relevance in how the references are ordered. 

The Basic Reference Format:

• First and Last name
• Position or Title (i.e. CEO, professor of law, etc.)
• Company or University of Employment
• Company or University Address ( not personal addresses)
• Company or University Phone number
• Company or University Email Address

It is important when writing out your references that you do not include personal information about the reference, such as a personal cellphone number or email, without their explicit permission.

It is best to just air on the side of caution and only include official and public contact information. 

There is, of course, optional additional information you may want or choose to include within a reference.

This can include:

• Your relationship to the reference
• The length of time you worked with this reference
• Examples of experiences or projects that you and a reference shared work on that they can provide greater detail about

As for formatting the rest of your resume, don’t forget to check out our other guides in this series including How to Write the Perfect Resume and How to Choose the Correct Resume Format !

What Not to Include in a Reference on a Resume

We have already covered the basics of what to include and how to format a basic reference – but what kind of information should be excluded from a reference on a resume. 

Here is a quick breakdown of what kinds of information should be excluded from a reference:

• Any personal information
• Lengthy descriptions of your relationship to the reference
• Personal anecdotes or other non-essential information
• Too many references from the same company or employer

You ultimately want to provide concise references that are easy to ready quickly and clearly show why that person has been included as a reference.

Take a look at these two examples on correcting reference errors:

When including additional information, keep it to one line or less of the most relevant information.

Additionally, keep additional specific and don’t use vague wording such as “several years.”

Incorrect :

Jack Frost CEO of Frost Inc. 21 East Avenue (123) 456-7890 [email protected] I worked closely with Jack for a number of years and learned a lot from him that contributed to my skills today. 

Jack Frost CEO of Frost Inc. 21 East Avenue (123) 456-7890 [email protected] I worked as Mr. Frost’s personal and administrative assistant for 8 years.

When making your list of references you plan of including, it is important to not include too many from the same company.

You should only really include two references from the same company if each reference witnessed different skills or accomplishments of yours that the other did not. 

You worked at a corporate company in the communications department as a copywriter, and you have worked with both junior and senior level copywriters who you have included as references.  

You include only the senior copywriter as a reference, as they can better attest to your skills and their position is more impressive and relevant to the job you are seeking. 

How Many References to Add to a Resume

Assuming you are using a separate, dedicated references page, the ideal number of references to aim for is between 3 to 4.

In some cases, you may include up to 5 to 6 references, though generally you should limit yourself to a lower number unless specifically requested to do otherwise. 

When selecting your 3 to 4 references, it is important to keep a few factors in mind:

• Which references hold the highest prestige in their positions, making their inclusion on a references page notable?
• Which references can provide the most relevant information about your work ethic and skills for the job you are currently applying for?
• Which references do you have the strongest relationships with who will go above and beyond to recommend you to a hiring manager?

Who to Ask for References

As you are creating your list of potential references to contact, there are a number of different types of people you can consider including.

It is important to keep in consideration how a reference can relate back to the job you are applying for, and whether their testimony of your work ethic and skills will be relevant enough for the desired position. 

Here are some common examples of who to include as references:

• Former employer or manager
• Supervisor or low-level management
• Coworker, colleague, or team member
• College professor
• Internship supervisor 
• Community member (typically used when a job applicant has limited references but has connections within the community who can validate their experience and skills)
• Business partners (this can be anyone you worked on a project with or shared a similar business experience with)

How to Ask for a Reference

Asking for professional references can be a bit nerve-wrecking, especially if your references are busy people.

The key to asking for references is to be polite and concise in your request. A direct phone call is preferred for asking for references, but a quick email can work in a pinch as well. 

When asking someone to serve as a reference for you, it is important to be considerate of their potentially busy schedule and give them a good time frame for when to expect a call or email.

This is another reason why it is important to wait to provide references until requested, as it will give you a narrower window of time to give to your references of when they will need to be on the lookout a hiring manager to contact them. 

Quick Tip: When you call or email to ask for a reference, this is a great time to confirm that the information you have is correct (such as their specific title and business phone number).

Can People You Have a Personal Relationship with Be a Reference?

It is generally advised against to include references that have a strong personal relationship with you outside of work (such as a significant other, parent, or sibling) as this can result in a biased recommendation from the reference. 

However, exceptions can be made in certain instances, such as if you worked within a family-owned business or if the reference worked directly with you for a long period of time.

In general, however, try to avoid including references that are too personally related to you. 

Alternative Methods for Sending References

If you are a new graduate or are returning to the workforce after some time away, you may not have many recent professional references to include in a resume.

For recent grads, including one or two professors can be acceptable, but you will likely still need other references.

Here are some examples of alternative references when you lack strong professional ones:

• Volunteers you have worked with
• Professors or teachers who have recently taught you
• Community members such as church pastors or mentors who can attest to your character

Final Takeaways

Ultimately, the key to doing references right is to wait to provide them until they are requested by a hiring manager or potential employers.

Once references have been requested, remember the following five takeaways that are key for rocking your reference section:

• Create a separate and dedicated references page to go along with your resume
• Provide all the necessary official contact information
• Avoid including personal information of the reference’s 
• Avoid including references who share too personal of a connection to you
• Include the most relevant or impressive references at the top of the page

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How to List Resume References: A Job Seeker's Guide + Sample

To include or not include? That is the question. Instead of including references on your resume, though, how about creating a resume reference list you can provide to recruiters upon request instead? Here's how to do it.

Many experts agree that you probably shouldn't put your references directly on your resume. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have personal references ready in a separate document for when you start your next round of job applications. 

In this article, you will learn a better approach to listing references than directly putting them on your resume, how to create an effective reference list, and find a reference list template to help you create your own. At the end, you'll also explore flexible, online courses that can help you craft a stand-out resume in just hours.

Do you put references on a resume? 

Generally, you should not put references on your resume. 

While it was once common practice to include references on resumes, experts now suggest that you use the extra space for something more valuable, such as work experience or marketable skills. Similarly, you should forgo adding “references available upon request” to your resume as it is seen as largely unnecessary by prospective employers. 

The reality is that recruiters and hiring managers rarely have the time to reach out to references during the initial screening phase of the hiring process and will usually only ask for references from applicants that interest them. In effect, the only time you should include your professional references with your resume is when the job description explicitly asks for it. 

While you shouldn’t put references on your resume, you should prepare a separate reference list to send potential employers once they have requested them from you.  Read more: Should You List References on a Resume?

How to make a separate resume references list

A separate reference list is a smart alternative to adding references directly to your resume. 

In addition to being prepared easily in advance to ensure that you have a reference list handy for any potential employers, they can also be unobtrusively added to your resume should a job posting request them. 

1. Choose your references and contact them for approval.

The references that you include on your list should be individuals who know you well and will provide positive commentary on your abilities and character.  

While the list should ideally focus on professional references from your current or previous places of employment, you can also include former professors or even personal acquaintances. These last two options might be most helpful to students, first-time jobseekers, or those who have been out of the workforce for some time.

Some of the potential references you might consider reaching out to include: 

Former or current supervisors

Former or current employers

Former or current co-workers

Former or current professors

Non-family personal acquaintances that can vouch for your character and abilities  

Once you have identified those contacts who will provide strong references, you should reach out to them and ask them if they would be willing to be a reference for you. Typically, it is more advisable to ask your contact to be your reference either in person or through a formal email rather than via text message. 

If your contact agrees to be your reference, then you should make sure to check what their preferred mode of contact is (email or phone), the times they are generally free to speak, and what their most up-to-date contact information is. 

How many references should go on your reference list?

The number of references you are required to put on your reference list will depend on the kind of job you are applying for. As a general rule, most employers typically ask that you send them three references. If you are applying for a more senior position, however, they may ask for more. 

You can also always reach out for clarification if you are uncertain. Remember, if an employer is asking you for your references after reviewing your application, then they are likely interested in you and will happily respond to your request for further clarity.

2. Create your reference list. 

Once you have a list of approved references, you can now create your reference list. The proper format for each reference should be as follows:                                        

Company name

Contact information (phone number and email address)

Description of relationship to the reference

Your references should also be listed from top to bottom in order of most to least recent. If you find that not all of your references are equally relevant for the specific position, then you might also consider ordering it from most to least relevant. 

For example, if you are applying to a position that allows you to employ specific technical knowledge that you gained in graduate school a few years ago, then you might put your former thesis advisor at the top of your reference list and your most recent employer after. 

3. Format your reference list. 

Now that you have completed your reference list, you should make sure that it is properly formatted and ready to send out. 

Your reference sheet should visually reflect the design that you used for your resume and cover letter. Providing a reference list that is consistent with the design of your other material will provide a sense of cohesion and professionalism across your application. 

Sample of reference page for resume

The sample below illustrates just one way that a reference list can look. As you are creating your own, remember to make its overall design cohesive with the rest of your resume material. Often, a simpler design is more effective than an elaborate one.

Create your own resume reference list using this template .

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Start learning the skills for a high-demand job like project management or cybersecurity with a Professional Certificate from industry leaders like Google, IBM, or Meta. If you need help with your resume, you might consider taking the State University of New York's project-centered How to Write a Resume course, which will help you craft an eye-catching resume that lets your professional strengths shine in just five hours.

Whatever your next step, though don’t forget to thank your references for taking the time to help you land your next job.

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How to Write a Resume Reference List With Examples

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What is a resume reference list?

How to choose resume references, resume reference list template, resume reference list examples.

Few interviewers will ask you to submit resume references as part of the application process, but you can have one prepared and ready to submit when they do request it. Most employers ask for your references after an initial phone screening or onsite interview if they’re considering you for the position. No matter when employers ask for your references, it’s best to have a list prepared that includes at least three reliable contacts who are willing to provide insight on you as an employee or colleague and highlight your best professional attributes. In this article, you can learn what a resume reference list is and how to request references.

A reference list is a document that applicants present along with their resume to an employer that provides the contact information for your professional references. If a company is considering you for a position, the employer will probably contact your references to ask questions about your job performance, reliability, whether former employers would rehire you and other relevant information. The answers will help the employer determine whether or not they want to move ahead in the hiring process with you.

Follow these steps to begin writing your reference list:

1. First, decide how many references to include in your reference list

While some employers may specify the number of references they’d like to see, others will not. In the latter case, think about where you are in your career. If you’re attempting to enter the job market for the first time, three references are enough, but if the role you are applying for is higher up, such as a supervisory or executive role, you can include a larger number of references from different points in your career. Be sure to follow any guidelines the employer gives you during the selection process. 

2. Next, choose your best professional contacts to list as references

When deciding on who to include as references, consider former colleagues or supervisors who can validate your skills and qualifications, as well as your reliability and trustworthiness as an employee. Try to list people who are prepared to speak about the talents specific to the job you’re applying for. When deciding who to list as a professional reference, check with them first to ensure that they are willing to be a good reference. Only include people you are comfortable with knowing you are looking for a new job, especially if you currently work with or for them. 

The following people tend to be the best references:

• Academic advisors
• Former employer

3. Then, ask your professional contacts to be your references

As mentioned above, it is important to ask your contacts if they are willing to provide a reference before you submit their names. This is a common courtesy, as many people prefer to keep their contact information as confidential as possible. You also want to make sure they’re comfortable providing a reference for you. Checking with your references also allows time for them to expect a call from the employer and prepare what they want to say about you with examples and specific praises. 

4. Last, decide how and when to submit your list of references

As a rule, do not send your reference list with your application unless it is requested on the job posting or the hiring manager requests references along with your resume. Typically, you can wait until the hiring manager requests the list. Knowing that they will ask for your references allows you to feel free to remove ‘references available upon request’ from your resume.

People typically choose to list references in reverse chronological order, beginning with the person they worked with most recently, though some people choose to order the list based on which person knows them best. 

Here is one example you can follow to format your resume reference list: 

Reference contact information:

Name Title or position Company Company address Reference phone number Reference email address

Description: Include where you worked with this reference, when you worked together and your working relationship.

Lea Martin Sales Director Eagle Crest Advertising, LLC 4747 Main St. Austin, TX 78701 555-555-5555 [email protected]

Lea was my direct supervisor while I worked as a regional sales manager for Eagle Crest Advertising, LLC from 2013 to 2018.

Joann McDonald Professor, Cooley School of Business The University of Texas at Austin 1268 Delaware Avenue Austin, TX 78712 555-555-5555 [email protected]

Dr. McDonald was my professor for several business courses I completed to earn my MBA from the University of Texas, Austin.

Your reference list should include your contact information in the header using the same theme, look and feel as your resume, using the same fonts and matching colors. This allows your list of references and your resume to look more professional and consistent.

When you get hired at your new position, make sure to reach out to thank your contacts for providing references that assisted you in finding a new job. This can be a quick phone call, handwritten note or email. Showing your gratitude to these connections is not only common courtesy, it will ensure that you remain in the good graces of your contacts.

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How to List References on Your Resume (With Examples)

7 min read · Updated on March 27, 2024

To include references on your resume or not? That is the question

At some point in your job search, an employer, recruiter, or HR professional is likely to ask you for a list of resume references. Many people will include a list of references right on their resume, or at least allude to the fact that references are available. The big question is… should you do either of these things?

If you're at the point of your job search where you need to know how to list references on your resume (or whether you should include them at all), you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll cover the following topics:

Whether you're supposed to put references on a resume

Why you should (or shouldn't) include resume references 

Where your references belong – and how to write them up

Who qualifies as a good resume reference

Let's get started!

Are you supposed to put references on a resume?

No, you are not supposed to put references on a resume

Instead, focus on providing the details that will convince a recruiter or hiring manager to contact you for an interview. Remember, your cover letter and resume are designed to get you the interview. The details you highlight on the resume during the job search should support this goal.

While it varies from company to company, most employers won't ask for your resume references until they're ready to reach out to them. This typically doesn't happen until you've made it through the initial interview rounds and are among the final candidates for a job. If, for any reason, an employer wants your references earlier in the process, rest assured they'll give you a chance to provide them. There's no need to place references on your resume when they won't be used until you're one of the final candidates.

That said, you should brainstorm a list of potential resume references as soon as you start submitting job applications, so you're ready when a prospective employer has specifically requested your professional references.

Why not include references on a resume?

Including references on a resume is simply a waste of space

Resume real estate is valuable and, as you know, when it comes to writing your resume, you only get so many pages to work with. Don't waste that space by putting a resume references section or adding the phrase “References available upon request.” 

Many employers usually won't ask for this information until you're further along in the interview process - and they know you'll provide references if they request them. Additionally, adding references to your resume can cause your application to get hung up in the applicant tracking system, or ATS , the software the company uses to manage candidates.

ATS can be programmed to automatically email references when they're found in the scanning process. If your reference doesn't respond to the automated message sent out by the ATS, your application could get caught in a pending status.

Where do you put references, if not on a resume?

Rather than putting references on your resume, type them up on a separate document

On a separate reference page, include the person's first name and last name, current job title and company name, email address, and phone number. Be sure to check with each of your professional references ahead of time, to confirm that the person is willing to be your reference and to verify which phone number and email address they'd like you to share with employers.

It's also helpful to add a line that explains to the reader how you've come to know this reference. For example,

It could be as simple as mentioning that you “worked together in Company XYZ's marketing department from July 2015 to November 2017,” or 

That your professional reference was your “direct supervisor at ABC Institute between 2018 and 2019.” 

You don't have to write a paragraph explaining your relationship to a reference, but it's nice to provide the employer or hiring manager with a little context.

When you type up your best resume references, consider using the same header information and font style that was used for your resume, so that the documents appear to be part of one overall package - even if they're not attached to one another. 

Resume references example: how to write your references

For example, if we were writing up resume references to accompany Alexa Campbell's resume , they might look something like this: 

Who should you ask to be a reference?

When choosing your professional references, select three to five people who have insight into your hard and soft skills and who you trust to say good things about you and your job performance. 

A good rule of thumb is to have at least three professional references – five if you're applying for an executive position. 

EXPERT TIP: If you opt to have more than three to five professional references, then the extras can be personal references. 

As you approach each person you want to have as a reference, give them an idea of the position you're applying for and how your skills match the role. This will help them know what to say when they're contacted. 

For the professional references

Try to find professional references who know about your skills and can talk about your career achievements in a way that aligns with what the job wants. Most of the time, your professional references will be talking about your hard skills – the things you know how to do from education and experience. 

Professional resume references examples include:

Former supervisors or managers

A leader at a place you volunteer

For the personal references

It is okay to have personal references, but you should never provide personal references INSTEAD OF professional references. Always, always give professional references first and then personal ones. You'd list the same details about your personal references as you do the professional references – Name, Title (who they are to you), phone, and email. Adding a couple of personal references can help boost your candidacy, as these folks will probably talk a lot about your soft skills , which employers value. 

Personal resume references examples include (note that not a single personal reference in the following list is a relative – your mom and grandma should not appear on your reference list!):

Academic Advisors

Sports Coach

Members of your network

Maximize resume space to improve job search impact

Having a good set of resume references to lean on while you search for a job is great, as they can help you get from interview to job offer. However, because of the limited space on your resume, you should create a separate document that contains just your references.

Remember, the goal of your resume is to get an interview. Before you sit down to speak with the hiring manager or recruiter, your references aren't going to help you. As such, you should aim to include only those details on your resume that will win an interview. 

When it's time to give your references to a hiring manager, make sure that you have a carefully curated list of contacts that can confidently speak to your abilities and how your skills match up with what the company is hiring for. 

Is your resume not getting results? Request a free review to find out how your resume is falling short .

This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Marsha Hebert. 

Recommended reading:

What to Remove From Your Resume Right Away

How to Keep a Bad Reference From Ruining Your Career

Everything You Need to Know About References for Your Job Search

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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How to List References on a Resume (Templates Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Let’s face facts; writing a resume isn’t always easy. You have to choose the best resume format , discuss the right skills , cover critical achievements, and so much more, all in just a couple of pages. Then, if you need to fit references on a resume, too, it can quickly become overwhelming.

Does that mean you need to panic? Of course not. We’ve got you.

Here’s a look at the right way to list references on a resume, as well as a look at what professional references are, mistakes you want to avoid, and a handy references “template” to get you started on the correct path.

What Are Professional References?

Alright, before we dig into how to list references on a resume, let’s talk about what professional references are in the first place. In the simplest sense, professional references are people who know you through the lens of your career. They’re professionals you have working relationships with, either currently or previously, so they can talk about what you’re like on the job.

Hiring managers value professional references. Why? Because they help them get a better idea of what working with you is like. It really is that simple.

However, it can also go further. Contacting professional references lets the hiring manager confirm some of the details on your resume. That’s right; it’s an honesty check, too.

So, why would you include references on a resume? Isn’t that a less common thing to do today?

It is true that adding references to your resume isn’t the norm, but that doesn’t mean you’ll never need to do it. While 80 percent of employers will call your references during that hiring process, 16 percent of those actually reach out to a candidate’s references before they invite them in for interviews.

What does that mean for you? Well, mainly, that knowing how to list references on a resume is a good idea. That way, if you find an excellent opportunity with a company that wants your professional references from the get-go, you’ll be ready.

Common Mistakes When Listing References on a Resume and How to Avoid Them

As with all parts of a resume, avoiding missteps is crucial. Even small errors can derail your chances of getting called in for an interview or landing the job, so you really do need to dedicate time and energy to making sure everything is right.

So, what’s one of the biggest mistakes you can make when putting references on a resume? Well, putting a fake one on the list is a doozy.

A fake professional reference? What on earth is that? Well, usually, it’s when a person lists a contact who they have no professional relationship with and then asks that person to lie to make them look good. At times, it means listing a contact that doesn’t actually exist, including a made-up name, company, phone number, email address, and more. Yes, for some reason, candidates sometimes try that.

Dishonesty is always a big no-no. Why? Because if you get caught – and the odds are pretty good that you will – it will probably cost you. Overall, about 65 percent of candidates who get busted in a lie either don’t get the job or get fired if they were selected and start in the role. Who wants to take that kind of risk?

Plus, if word gets out that you lied, that can haunt you. Remember, people talk, so there is always a chance that the hiring manager will let others know about your less-than-scrupulous behavior.

Is that the only misstep? No, it isn’t. Selecting the wrong references is another one.

When you pick people to ask to reference, you need to choose wisely. First, you want people where there is a professional connection. Past managers, colleagues, mentors, customers, and similar professionals are your best bets.

Generally, don’t list friends unless the company explicitly requests that kind of personal reference. Hiring managers won’t necessarily find much value in these references.

The same goes for family members unless you have a working relationship. For example, if you had a job in the family business, then including a family member may be okay. Otherwise, skip them.

Second, you want to choose people who have good things to say about you in a professional context. Listing a past manager or colleague who you didn’t get along with is a horrible idea. They might not have the kindest words to share, and that can keep you from getting the job.

Ideally, they can discuss an accomplishment that really highlights what you have to offer, as well as talk about workplace attitude in a glowing way. You want someone who can champion your awesomeness, ensuring the hiring manager gets the right idea about what you bring to the table.

Finally, whatever you do, don’t have any references listed on a resume that’s publicly accessible. If you do, you’re essentially broadcasting other people’s contact details, opening them up to unwanted calls, including scams. While it may not directly hurt your job search, it is a major faux pas, one that could harm your reputation with your references and make them less inclined to say nice things about you going forward.

How to List References on a Resume

Alright, now it’s time for what you’ve been waiting for: a close look at how to put references on a resume. If you want to make sure you get it right, here is a step-by-step approach that covers it all.

1. Ask Permission

Why is “ask permission” step one? Because you should never blindside someone by listing them without their knowledge, that’s why.

Being someone’s professional reference is a favor, as well as a big responsibility. Some people aren’t going to be comfortable with being put on the spot, particularly if they don’t know a hiring manager might come calling.

So, before you include anyone as a reference on your resume, pick up the phone, give them a call, and make sure they are cool with it. Then, accept their answer.

Typically, you’ll want to get permission from three contacts. Why three? Because that’s the most commonly requested number of professional references. By getting them all handled now, you’ll usually be able to provide everything the hiring manager needs in this department in one fell swoop.

2. Get Updated Contact Information

Once you have a person’s permission, ask them to provide updated contact information. Usually, you’ll need their current job title, employer’s name, employer’s address, a daytime phone number, and an email address.

3. Start a New Page

When you’re adding a reference list to your resume, you want to start it on a new page. Additionally, it shouldn’t be any longer than a single page, as anything more is a bit excessive at such an early step in the hiring process.

It’s also important to note that your reference list will typically be the last page of the resume document. However, make sure you check the instructions for applying as some hiring managers will want them submitted as a separate document, not unlike how you usually need to go with cover letters .

4. Add Your Contact Information

Since your professional references are on a separate page, you want to add your contact details at the top. That way, if the page gets separated from the rest, the hiring manager will know whose references they are.

4. Keep It Simple

A professional reference list isn’t embellished. All you need to do is to write a header explaining that these are your professional references and then include the contact details for each person in succession, with a clear division between each person’s info.

Along with adding a space between each one, consider bolding the contacts’ names. That helps each listing stand out, and it looks much better than numbering your reference list.

5. Choose the Right Order

When you need to decide which reference to list first, go with the person who is most likely to give you an exceptional recommendation. Hiring managers may not reach out to everyone. So, by leading with the best, you’re increasing the odds that that reference will get a call.

6. Add a Short Statement Outlining Your Relationship

Along with the person’s contact details, it isn’t a bad idea to add a quick note about your relationship with each reference. That lets the hiring manager know a little about why they should care about what this person has to say, so it doesn’t hurt to do it.

What should you write? Well, mention the kind of working relationship you had, where you were working at the time, and how long you knew them. For example, “My direct manager at ABC Company from 2018 to 2022” is enough to provide the hiring manager with some context.

References on a Resume Sample

Alright, if you really want to know how to list references on a resume, a resume references example is a good place to start. It’ll give you insights into the format, making it easier for you to follow along.

To give you even more information, we’re going to cover two. First, there’s a references on a resume sample that shows you exactly what each entry needs to look like. Second, there’s a handy template that you can use when you’re creating a resume.

Resume References Example

Here is what a single professional reference entry usually looks like on a resume:

123 Main Street

Anytown, State, 12345

555-555-5555

[email protected]

My direct manager at XYZ, Inc. from 2018 to 2022

Resume References Template

Here’s a quick template for creating your reference page for a resume:

Your Address as Listed on Page One of Your Resume

Your Phone Number

Your Email Address

Section Heading, Usually “Professional References”

First Reference Name

City, State, Zip Code

Phone Number

Email Address

Relationship Description

Second Reference Name

Third Reference Name

Putting It All Together

At this point, you should have a solid idea of how to list references on a resume. Use all of the tips, the sample, and the template to your advantage. That way, if you ever need to include professional references as part of your resume, you’ll be good to go.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How To List Your Resume References [With Formatting Examples]

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“Hi there! This is Jennifer calling from Google. The team absolutely loved you and we'd like to move forward by contacting your resume references. Can you please send them along?”

SCORE! You  finally  made it, all that work is about to pay off.

You crafted the perfect resume and cover letter . You prepared for and absolutely crushed your interviews . You're SO close you can taste it!

There's only one thing left between you and that sweet, sweet offer — a reference check.

If you're thinking “this is in the bag,” you may want to slow your roll.

While your resume references are usually a formality, choosing the wrong people or presenting them the wrong way can throw up a red flag right as you're about to cross the finish line.

The good news is that if you follow a few simple rules and plan ahead, you'll knock this out of the park and be signing your offer letter in no time.

This post is going to cover everything you need to know about resume references, including:

• Why resume references can make or break your chances of getting a job offer
• Where to put your references (should they even be on your resume?)
• The best way to list and format your references in 2020
• What types of people make great references (and how to ask them)
• 10+ examples of awesome resume reference examples you can steal

You may be asking, who is this guy and why is he qualified to talk about this?

I spent two years making the jump from health care into technology, eventually landing offers at Google, Microsoft, & Twitter. All of those companies asked for my references and I used the exact methods I'm about to share with you to seal the deal with all three.

Now I want to share that info with you so you can replicate those results!

What Are Resume References And Why Are They Important?

A resume reference list is essentially a selection of people who can vouch for your professional skills and confirm that you’re an awesome employee this company should be excited about.

References usually come into play just before the company extends an offer. The team loved you in the interview and they just want to confirm that what you said lines up with other people you've worked with.

When it comes to actually checking, there's a pretty broad range.

Some companies don't bother checking references at all, while some might ask you to provide 5 or more.

You'd rather be fully prepared and burn a few extra minutes for nothing rather than be stuck scrambling to find an ex-colleague with a 24 hour turnaround time!

Should You Put Your References On Your Resume?

Nope! Your references should never show up your actual resume, here's why:

First, resume space is precious.

You just spent hours editing your resume and squeezing it down to a single page. You really don’t want to be wasting valuable space on your carefully edited resume by adding reference details.

On top of that, the company doesn’t need or want your references when you submit your resume. They're still trying to decide if you're even qualified to do the job!

A value driven resume bullet about a project you led is going to be way more effective than giving out your old boss's digits.

Plus, think about where you're submitting your resume. If you're sharing it on LinkedIn, on job boards like Indeed or Angel.co, you're putting up a billboard with people's information for everyone to see!

Your references may have your back now, but that might change if they start getting calls from Nigerian royalty who want to share their fortunes.

“Ok, so should I at least put a line that says ‘References available upon request'?”

Nope! It’s fully expected that you’ll provide references if the company requests them. Again, focus on selling yourself and your experience on your resume. We'll take care of your references in a new doc called your  Reference Sheet.

You're going to want to fire up a new Google Doc for your references, but the key here is to make sure you're staying consistent with your resume.

This means that you want to keep the same color scheme, structure, font, and general format on both documents:

You want to make sure that your reference sheet includes:

• Your full name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Link to your LinkedIn profile

You never know who this is going to be passed around to, so you want to make it easy for recruiters and hiring managers to know what candidate these references belong to.

Remember, your goal is to stand out — and paying attention to details on your reference sheet is a surefire way to make that happen.

How To List Your References On A Resume

Should be easy, right? We're just adding some names and contact info here…right?

Not so fast.

If you want to win more job offers, you need to capitalize on every opportunity to add value and control the process.

This means paying attention to detail and creating those opportunities through every step of the process. Listing your references is no different.

How To List And Format Your Resume References

Sure, we're going to drop in some contact information, but we're also going to leverage a tactic to help steer the conversation towards a specific project or result that we want the employer to know and your reference to talk about.

You want to make sure your reference format includes (in order):

• Company/Organization
• Phone Number
• Email Address
• Relationship + Relevant Context

It should look a little something like this:

Now, you probably knew about the contact info stuff, but most job seekers miss out on the relevant context piece.

When listing your references, you want to provide a specific detail about a project/initiative you worked on and  the results it drove.

Results = value, and value is what gets you hired.

This starts when you reach out to a potential reference. I have instructions and an email template you can use to ask people to be your reference below. When they agree, hop on the phone with them and walk through the game plan:

“Hey Jennifer, thank you so much for offering to be a reference. I really appreciate it! This is for an operations role and the company is focused on increasing productivity/efficiency. It would be great if you could talk them through the Axion project we worked on together where we reduced redundancies by 37% in 6 months!”

Guess what happens next? Your reference starts singing your praises and discussing how amazing that Axion project was and what a great job you did to drive those results.

That’s way better than a typical response like this:

“Uhh yea, I worked with Austin for a couple of years. We were on the same team, he's a nice guy and seems to do good work. Yea, sure, I'd recommend him.”

That showcases zero personality and doesn't do anything to boost your credibility. We want to avoid that at all costs!

Finally, you always want to make sure to lead with your best reference. The person who has the most to say should always be at the top of your list.

How Many Resume References Should You Have?

Most of the time, your interviewer/recruiter will tell you how many references you should provide. If that's the case, you're good!

If not, you can always ask to get a number from them. That will most likely be a range and it could be vague like,  “we'd love to talk to a few people who you've worked with.”

If they’re not super clear, it's up to you to decide!

My best recommendation is five people if you can swing it. Five references gives the employer choices while also illustrating that you have a solid range of people who you believe will stand up for you.

That said, not everyone has five references to put on their resume. If we're talking minimums, you need to have at least three references to share. We're about to chat through the types of people that make great references, so if you don't think you can make it to three, stick with me!

Finally, a major exception here is for senior roles. If you're going for C-Level or VP level roles, you'll probably want to provide a more robust set of references. Seven is a good ballpark here.

Everybody else can stick with five!

What Types Of People Make Good References?

There are a couple of basic questions to ask yourself when considering who to add to your resume references list:

• Who would be the best reference for this particular job?
• Who do I know that works in this industry?
• Who understands the exact skills I have that apply to this position?
• Who do I know with the most impressive job title?
• Who do I know at big-name companies?
• Who am I okay with knowing I’m looking for a new job? (Hint: Probably not your current boss)
• Who might my potential employer know and respect?

Think about it from the employer’s perspective — everyone wants to hire top talent.

The employer is using your references to validate your story and hear that same story from a 3rd party. In other words, they want to know that you are who you say you are.

They also want to know that your previous employers (and colleagues) liked you. Were you an over achiever? Did your team love you? Were you an awesome cultural fit?

Your potential employer cares about all of those things and the best way to find out is by asking.

If you can’t provide proof that folks enjoyed spending time with you, that you got your stuff done, and that you were a valuable asset, that's going to throw up some major red flags.

You've made it this far! We don't want that to happen.

Who Makes The Best References?

That said, your references don't just have to be former managers or colleagues. There are so many people we can pull from, here are few examples:

• Former managers
• Former colleagues (on your team and other teams as well!)
• People you volunteer with
• Friends & family friends
• Professors/teachers
• Mentees or students

You definitely want to prioritize people who have worked with you in a professional sense, but you can also get a glowing endorsement from people who see you in other aspects of your life. Those can be just as valuable.

It's also important to note that your references don’t need to all be of a “higher rank” than you. If you managed an intern, if you mentor someone, or if you teach in some capacity, you could absolutely have your intern/mentee/student vouch for you.

If you're in a management role, your best bet may be a direct report who can speak to your abilities as a manager!

Once you have your basic list down, try to think about who you know that is doing well for themselves, and whose job might lend a little credibility to your reference list. Especially consider people who are working in the same field as your prospective employer.

Definitely prioritize people who work in the same industry and major bonus points if they work for a potential client or partner — that's always a huge plus!

To recap on great reference options, you want to prioritize like this:

• People who have amazing things to say about you
• People who have worked with you professionally
• People whose position may add some extra credibility to your list

The first is a must, the second two are nice if you can get em.

How To Ask Someone To Be A Reference For You

Please, please, PLEASE don't be the person who just writes down a few people's names and  never tells them.

Even if “you know they'd be fine with it,” they will be totally unprepared to get that call and a flustered reference is a bad reference.

You're giving them no time to prepare, to get their story straight, to think about how to pitch you. You know who that ends up hurting?

On top of giving you a better shot of landing the role, asking people ahead of time is just the polite thing to do.

It also gives you a chance to verify their contact info, current job title, etc. so you can make sure your potential employer gets in touch with them the first time.

The good news is, it's super easy to make the ask. All you have to do is write a quick email asking that person to be a reference for you. Here’s an example of the exact email template that I used to reach out to people:

Resume References Permission Email Template Hi [Reference Name] , Hope you're having an awesome week! I'm reaching out because I'm in the final stages of the interview process for a  [Job Title]  role and I wanted to be prepared with some references. I really enjoyed the work we did on the [Project Name] and I would be super grateful if you would be up to speak with the hiring manager about the work we did there. If you're up for it, let me know! If not, that's totally fine. Either way, have an awesome rest of the week! Best, [Your Name]

Now hit Send!

Even if someone isn't up to be your reference, they'll probably still be flattered that you asked and it's a great way to reconnect.

Once you fire off a few of these and get responses, you’ll have a reference list ready to go!

How To Format Your Resume References

We already touched on formatting a little bit before, but I’ll just rehash the basics.

Rule #1: Match Your Resume & Reference Sheet Styles

Before you begin adding your references, you want to make sure your reference sheet matches the same style and format of your resume .

This means using the same colors, the same font, and the same general layout. If you scroll back near the top of this post, you can see an example of how I did this with an example resume and reference sheet.

Rule #2: Add Your Contact Info At The Very Top

Just like you did on your resume, you want to include your contact info at the very top. This includes:

• Your Full Name
• Links to any personal websites or portfolios

We want to make it as easy as possible for the recruiter or hiring manager to know which candidate is in front of them and how to get in touch.

Rule #3: Formatting Your Resume References

Alright, down to business! When it comes to each reference, there's a specific format you should follow.

First, you should list out the info for each reference in this order:

• Full name of your reference
• Current company/organization
• Your relationship + relevant context

I personally like to spice things up with the font . I'll use a heavy font weight for the name and maybe even bump the size up a notch.

Then I'll go with the standard weight for everything in the middle, and close out with an unbolded, light weight version of the font to describe the relationship and the context. Again, you can see this in action in the example I shared earlier in the post.

I would also make sure to find a way to differentiate between references. It may sound obvious, but using numbers before names, or adding an extra line break in between references will make it clear where one reference ends and the other begins.

Finally, make sure you proofread your resume references list before you send it to anyone. Using free tools like Grammarly will ensure you never accidentally send your list off with a spelling mistake or a grammatical error you'll be kicking yourself over.

Examples Of Resume References

Awesome! At this point, you should have a few amazing people in mind to list on your reference sheet.

You know the general rules of formatting, but we want to be absolutely sure that you get this right. Remember, that offer is so close you can taste it! Let's not screw things up now.

To help you get an idea of what to do (and what not to do), I'm going to share a few examples of  bad  resume references and  good  resume references:

Example #1:

Bad resume references (don’t use this).

What's wrong with this picture? A lot!

First, how is anyone supposed to know who this reference sheet belongs to? Was it Jenny that interviewed on Wednesday? Tom who came in yesterday? Who knows?

Without any contact information or details about you, your hiring manager is shooting in the dark. That's not great.

On top of that, there's a lot missing from the references themselves.

First, the formatting is entirely the same. It's just a block of text with no real way to easily identify roles, relationships, contact info, etc.

Speaking of info, where's the detail? There are no phone numbers (the primary way people will contact your references). There are no job titles and there is zero context about the relationship beyond “former manager.” Also bad.

Here’s another example of some terrible resume references:

Example #2:

Bad resume references (don’t use this either).

This one looks better, but we've still got some issues.

First, the prioritization is all wacky. This person is leading off with a friend while their current colleague is buried down at the bottom. That's not a great look.

What if they only decide to contact the top three references? They'd get a friend, a teacher, and someone who managed this person when they were an intern. That's not gonna work.

Next, there's little to no context here. What company is Luke Walker a colleague at? Is it a current company? A former company?

What projects did you work on with these people or how did they impact you?

There's nothing to clarify why this person listed them, which leaves the whole conversation up to the person making the call. That can lead to a seriously awkward conversation or, at best, one where they really need to dig to get the info they want.

Your goal is to make it easy for the person calling!

Example #3:

A great example of how you should list your references (definitely do this).

Boom! Look how awesome that is.

We've got our full name and all of our contact info right at the top. The reader immediately knows who we are, they can look us up if they need to, and our email/phone is available for any questions or feedback.

Our references are all broken out in a clear and clean fashion. Each person's title, company, and contact info are readily available and we've taken the opportunity to “drive” the conversation here with a few lines of context at the bottom. Note that we defined the relationship at the beginning of that context.

If you're not differentiating yourself at every step of the job search process, you're getting lost in a sea of applicants. Plus, all this extra detail will help you (and your references) build a rapport with your employer.

The example above shows the exact level of detail you need to add to your resume references list. If you use that as a guide and format your own reference sheet in a similar fashion, you'll be ready to go!

All you need to do now is find your people, shoot them a note asking if they'll vouch for you, and get your references sheet set up. You'll want to have it ready to go at that next interview!

Salary Negotiation: Preparing For The Final Offer

What's the last step in the interview process? The final offer letter. If you've made it this far, congratulations! You'll want to be prepared ahead of time by checking out my article on how to negotiate your salary during an interview.

I'll show you 3 simple negotiation tips that you can use to double your offer! While finding the courage to speak up about your salary and negotiating what you’re worth can be tough, it’s an absolute must. If you’re not negotiating your salary properly, you’re leaving tons of money on the table. Don't miss out on the opportunity to get paid what you're really worth!

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Austin Belcak

Austin is the founder of Cultivated Culture where he helps people land jobs without connections, without traditional experience, and without applying online. His strategies have been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, & Fast Company and has helped people just like you land jobs at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Twitter, & more.

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Adding References to Your Resume — The Complete Guide

Published: July 25, 2023

“Show me the receipts!” We’ve all heard the phrase, and when it comes to your new job search , those “receipts” are your references on a resume. The difference between snagging that dream job or being left in the dust can sometimes come down to the glowing endorsements of your professional network.

In today’s competitive job market, it’s crucial to stand out, and a cover letter alone may not be enough — but having a well-prepared list of references can be the ace up your sleeve.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the nitty-gritty details of adding references to your resume — from how to notify and list them to formatting them like a pro. 

Should you list references on your resume?

Should you say “references available upon request”, how to notify your references, how to ask people to be your references, email template for potential references, how to list references on your resume, how to format references on your resume, references on resume vs. letter of recommendation, resume references examples.

The answer, as you might expect, is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, such as the industry, the job you’re applying for, and the stage of your career.

Let’s break down when you should and shouldn’t include references on your resume.

When to Include References on Your Resume

• When specifically requested. If a job posting explicitly asks for references, it’s essential to provide them. In this case, including your references shows that you pay attention to detail and can follow instructions.
• For entry-level positions. If you’re just starting in your career and don’t have much professional experience, including references can help validate your skills and work ethic. In this scenario, consider including references from internships, volunteer work, or even professors.
• When transitioning industries. If you’re switching industries and your work experience isn’t directly related to the job you’re applying for, references from people who can vouch for your transferable skills or your ability to adapt to new environments can be beneficial.

When Not to Include References on Your Resume

• When space is limited. Your resume should ideally be one to two pages. If you’re struggling to fit all your relevant experience and skills, it’s best to save that valuable real estate for showcasing your accomplishments and abilities, rather than including references.
• When not requested. In most cases, employers will ask for references later in the hiring process, while some may list the requirement directly on the job application. Providing them upfront can make your resume look cluttered and may even give the impression that you’re trying too hard.
• When you have limited or weak references. If you’re unable to secure strong references or your references have limited knowledge of your work, it’s better to wait until you’re asked and have time to gather more suitable options.

You might have seen the phrase “References available upon request” on resumes or even used it yourself, but is it really necessary?

In today’s job market, this statement is generally considered outdated and unnecessary. Here’s why.

Implied Availability

Employers already assume that you have references and that you’ll provide them when asked. Including “References available upon request” on your resume takes up valuable space without adding any new or useful information.

It’s better to use that space to showcase your skills, accomplishments, or experiences that are relevant to the position.

Focusing on Your Strengths

Rather than using the phrase “References available upon request,” concentrate on making your resume as strong as possible.

Highlight your achievements, skills, and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the job.

If you’re a strong candidate, employers will naturally want to contact your references to confirm your qualifications.

Notifying your references is a crucial step in the job search process. Choosing the right people and asking them to vouch for you can make all the difference.

In this section, we’ll go over how to select and ask potential references to be part of your job search journey.

How to Choose Your References

• Consider your relationship. Pick people who know you well and can speak to your work ethic, skills, and accomplishments. The best references are often former supervisors, colleagues, mentors, professors, or even clients.
• Look for relevance. Choose references who can speak to your abilities in the context of the job you’re applying for, like a direct supervisor. If you’re applying for a managerial role, for instance, a reference who can discuss your leadership skills would be ideal.
• Select a mix of references. Aim for a diverse group of references that can provide different perspectives on your abilities. Include a mix of supervisors, peers, and subordinates, if possible. Your list can be a mix of personal references, character references, and even former colleagues.
• Check their availability. Ensure your chosen references are available and willing to provide a positive recommendation. Make sure they have the time and can be reached easily by potential employers.

Contact Information: Provide a phone number and email address where the reference can be reached. Make sure to ask for permission before sharing someone’s contact information.

For example:

John Doe - Senior Project Manager at ABC Corporation - Former Supervisor

Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email: [email protected]

Step 4: Organize your references.

Organize your references in a logical order, such as by relevance to the job you’re applying for or the strength of the relationship.

If you have a particularly strong reference who can speak to your most relevant skills, consider listing them first.

Step 5: Double-check your information.

Before submitting your reference page, double-check all the information for accuracy.

Make sure names are spelled correctly, titles are up-to-date, and contact information is current. You don’t want any errors to reflect poorly on your attention to detail.

Don't forget to share this post!

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

References on the resume

How and when to create a resume references page

Should you include references on your resume.  The short answer is no!  Most resume and career experts agree that putting references on a resume is not a good idea and can even  have a negative effect on your application .

One of the most important features of resume writing is the length of your document and you should  never exceed 2 pages  in most cases. The only exception is if you have lots of really relevant experience or you’re applying for specialist positions that require a portfolio.

Given this rule, it is highly recommended to  preserve the little space available for more pertinent information  that can help a potential employer learn about you and your strengths by including an optional skills,  honors and awards  or  voluntary work section .

Some  online resume builders  will allow you to include a  list of references  at the bottom of your resume but it is not recommended and usually will not be found as standard on many  resume templates . The  space on a resume is known as “real estate”  to many career experts who advise on using this valuable resume space for details which can contribute to your application.

What are references?

References are a method for employers to find out how a candidate applying for a vacancy in their business has performed in previous positions or throughout their academic career.

When a  hiring manager requests a reference , they wish to establish an idea of how the candidate has used their skills, confirm any qualifications and ask questions about the conduct and general character of the aspiring employee.

It is a  useful way for prospective employers to substantiate claims made by the candidate  and get a feeling for their professional attitude and competency.

Generally,  references are not one of the first aspects required on a job application.  A good way to start is by reading our  guide to how to write a resume  or by trying an  online resume builder  which shows you how your resume will look as you complete the information.

Resume references: When to include or exclude

For the majority of job applications you will  not  need to include any references with your resume.

If you decide to do so and they have not been requested this could be  detrimental to your application , simply because you are prioritizing references over other relevant skills or qualifications which could be included in this space and add value to your resume.

The most likely scenario for your jobsearch will be that the  employer requests references from you after a preliminary interview  or in any case near the end of the application process.

This is because hiring managers will only want to contact references of those few applicants who are  shortlisted after the interview stage  in order to save time and effort. It is time-consuming for employers to call or send messages to your referees and doing so can become counterproductive and inefficient due to the time spent unless you are in the running for a job.

The only time it is  acceptable to include references with the resume  in a job application is  when they are requested directly in the job vacancy description . When this is the case, we recommend only including them on a separate piece of paper as a reference page. (Check out below for  how to write a references page  for your resume.

Another possibility is to  include testimonials from past clients  directly on your resume or if possible on a separate page, but it is important to  name your source , which means giving the referees’ information as a normal reference, explaining the relationship of the person cited to the candidate and where he or she works,  including their position and a way to contact them  via email or phone so the employer can verify the statements.

If  professional references are not requested , the most acceptable form of ensuring that the prospective employer knows their availability is by  including a line in your accompanying cover letter to indicate that they can be provided upon request . This way the hiring manager will contact you to get the corresponding information if you are successful in your application.

For those job applications that do not specifically request professional references from the jobseeker, it is not advisable to include them but it is always wise to be prepared!

For  other resume resources , you could use an online resume builder to help you create a winning resume from the very beginning.

Who do you list as a reference?

Each candidate will need to  consider their personal experience  and at what stage they find themselves in their career  to decide who to use as a reference .

Who to ask for a reference depends on these aspects because there will be a variety of possibilities for different jobseekers.

• For example, jobseekers with a student resume may  not have much professional experience  in the working world but still have a selection of possible  individuals to ask for references  such as  guidance counselors , tutors, advisors, coaches and of course teachers or  professors  from their academic career.
• Whereas  entry-level resume  candidates may have  some professional experience  and wish to use former colleagues or  managers . Another possibility is a project, master or doctorate  supervisor from their most recent studies  who will know the candidate’s dedication and interests well.
• For  professional resume applicants  this step of the job application may be easier as their  network of contacts will be more accustomed to giving and requesting references  and will therefore know what is useful to mention as well as  how the candidate in question behaves in a workplace environment .

It is highly unconventional and  discouraged to use family members or friends as references . This is simply because they will not be objective in giving their opinions and generally  do not know the candidate’s working practices  or abilities.

• Another option for those who do  not have many professional contacts  to rely on for references, is to ask a well-respected member of the community who will be able to give a  character reference .
• Also, perhaps you can think of someone with whom you’ve worked, studied or volunteered who would speak highly of you and  highlight your relevant abilities to the hiring manager .

For you personally it is important that you consider  which references are most suitable to use for the position and company you’re applying to .

Before  making a resume reference page  or sending the contact details of anyone to a potential employer, it is imperative to  ask permission from all of the references  you would like to use.

When you first think of somebody to use as a  reference for a job application, you must ask their permission  not only to use and give out their contact information but directly if they would be able to provide a reference, as some people may prefer not to. Additionally, this person will then be able to give a prepared answer when they are contacted regarding your reference.

Finally, remember to  give thanks to everyone who you include as a reference on your resume  even if they are not contacted in the end. A little appreciation can go a long way.

Resume Reference Page

No matter your sector or career ambitions, it is always useful to know  how to write a professional reference list  just in case you are required to supply a resume reference page.

Writing a reference page for your resume is not a complicated task , it is straight-forward and can usually be done from scratch with no problem, but for those who require it, there are  resume reference page templates  and  examples of reference pages  to help guide you to create one which suits your application.

• It is customary for  employers to contact 2-3 different references for each applicant  thus it is  not advisable to include more than 4 references . This means you can make sure you include reference covering different positions or multiple people who can vouch for different skills you claim to be able to bring to the role.
• A  resume reference page is generally a sheet of A4  paper which can be sent upon request  including the details of 3-4 contacts  of the candidate who have agreed to  supply a reference attesting to the character and professional conduct of the jobseeker.  This is to give the potential employer a better idea of how this person will perform in their company.
• References can also be cited here in the form of statements made about the candidate  or you can send a  letter of recommendation from a previous employer  as an attachment.
• Finally, just as you would with each aspect of your  resume and professional cover letter , your  resume reference page should also be tailored to suit the role and company  you’re applying to.

Remember that it is now very  easy for companies to check your background  and investigate you simply by typing your name into a search engine.

With all the various marvels that the internet offers us and the dozens of  social media pages  we sign up to, hiring managers can find out lots about us at the click of a button so remember to  keep these channels professional and creative to serve as references too .

Each contact in your  professional network  knows you a certain way and will be able to provide an account of your achievements and strengths for different jobs thus it is  essential to customize the reference page according to the skills and qualities you will need for each vacancy .

Formatting your professional reference list

Learning  how to structure a reference page for your job application  is just as vital as other sections of your resume or cover letter because if you present a sloppy, badly-formatted reference page to a prospective employer they will not be interested in seeing more of your work.

What should a resume reference page look like?

A  reference page for a resume should be an A4 page  with the name and contact information of the candidate at the top, with a  clear heading or title . To maintain a consistent structure it would be more professional to use the  same style and layout as used on the resume for the name and basic details .

When it comes to  listing references to present to a potential employer , you must ensure to  order your list  by descending significance. That means placing the  most impressive reference at the top .

For the reference information, make sure you use all of the following:

• Full name with corresponding title where appropriate;
• Job title or position;
• Name of company or organization;
• Contact phone number;
• Contact email address;
• Relation to you.

It is no longer necessary to include a physical contact address as references will no longer be contacted through traditional mail and it is  inappropriate to share this personal information . We do recommend including a city or town name, simply to locate the business or association.

You can take a look at  ResumeCoach ’s helpful  guides to how to write a resume objective , work experience  or other resume sections .

Also, you can find practical advice and examples on  how to write a cover letter  or an introduction to different  resume templates  for all types of jobseekers.

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How to List References on a Resume [And If You Should]

Should you include references on your resume? Learn whether you should include professional references on your resume and how to list references when needed.

A professional reference is a potential employer’s inside look at what you are like to work with.

Sometimes, a glowing reference from the right person can be exactly what lands you your dream job.

Are you writing “References Are Available on Request” on your resume? Maybe you have your mom as your first choice for references.

Neither of these is advised.

This article will give you guidance as to exactly how to present your professional references to a potential employer.

From who to ask to provide references, to how to approach that issue, and much more, we will show you how to best handle the matter of references on resumes.

Should You Include References on a Resume?

Most of the time, you’ll find that the answer is actually a straight, “No!”

If there are 250 applicants for a job, can you imagine a hiring manager calling 750 to 1250 references?

Not really. References are usually requested far down the line when the number of candidates has been whittled down.

What about saying “References Available Upon Request” on my resume? Is that a good compromise?

That’s like saying, “Applicant has a pulse.” It’s obvious.

Your resume is short and sweet. Do not waste space with an out-dated sentence like that.

And if you don’t have references available, then that is a mistake as well.

Consider also that if you are applying online, you do not want to include a list of references for another reason.

The reason is that you will be giving the contact details of your references to whoever sees your resume.

That is not ideal. Your references may not agree to be referenced for you again.

A general rule is just that, general. Specific instances will be different.

Do not just assume that your resume will never need a reference page.

Perhaps references on your resume will be explicitly requested, in which case, include a professional reference page.

If references on your resume are requested and you do not include them, then that isn’t going to end well for you. You have shown that you cannot follow directions and now the recruiter may need to contact you for the missing information, if they take the time to do so.

If you can’t decide whether or not to include references, don’t. Wait for them to be specifically requested.

How to List Professional References on a Resume

If you have determined that you do need to include references on your resume, we will explain how to do this correctly.

Regardless of how many references that you have listed, always put your best reference at the top.

That may be your highest ranking reference, it may be your reference that already works where you are applying to, it may be the reference who can best state your skills.

In every case, you want to be prudent about who you list. You will receive advice on exactly how to approach this later on.

This is how you should list professional references on a resume:

• Reference’s first and last name
• Reference’s current job title
• Company reference currently works for
• (Optional) Company’s address
• Reference’s email address
• Reference’s phone number
• (Optional) Background information on your relationship with your reference

With that order, your reference will look something like this:

You may wish to give some background on the nature of the relationship with your reference.

It is not essential to include details, provided that you state their role in your list, but sometimes your relationship helps give context as to why they are a reference.

How Many References Should You Include?

How many references you have really depends on your prior experience and the job that you are applying for.

If you have just graduated, and have limited experience, it is perfectly acceptable to have 3 or 4 references.

However, if you have worked for a long time and are applying for an executive role, you should have at least 5, even up to 7 references.

However, read the job posting carefully.

If your potential employer says that they want 4, then provide them with 4.

You do not want to make it look like you are already not following their instructions.

If you provide 7 references, remember that your potential employer may only contact a few people. Ensure that your references are solid as stand-alone references, rather than as a group as you do not know who will be contacted.

Resume References Example

Even if your resume does not end at the bottom of the page, you should still be sure to start your reference list on a separate page.

Carry over your contact information section from your resume and use the same formatting.

After that, begin with your references.

As stated above, list your references with your best one at the top. Oftentimes, that will be the most relevant reference at the top.

A reference list with three references may look like this. Click the image to download the template.

As stated before, having three references is not a mandatory amount at all. Submit as many as were requested.

If there isn’t a specific number requested, add according to experience and what you are applying for.

(Read How To Make a Resume That Gets Past the Robots for more information on writing the other sections of your resume.)

Resume References Format (to Submit After Your Resume)

A reference list on your resume will be included in the same document.

A reference sheet is a separate document that you can submit when references are requested during the hiring process and is not attached directly to your resume.

Much like with the reference page on your resume, emphasis will be in the very same places. The document is essentially the same.

While either of these formats can be used to list your references, here is an example of a reference sheet that is more simplified than the sample above. Click the image to download the template.

Ensure that the font, font size, margins, and color scheme match those on your resume and cover letter.

This will ensure that the document looks similar to what you have already submitted.

How to Ask for a Reference

There are many ways that you can ask for a professional reference.

If you are on the phone with a potential reference, ask them then.

If you are talking with them in person, it will be a good idea to ask them then.

You definitely want to ask your references for permission before giving out their personal information.

You do not want them to be surprised by an unexpected call regarding your application.

You also want them to have time to prepare. With adequate preparation time, you will get a better reference by virtue of the fact that they could plan ahead.

That person might not actually want to provide a reference.

If they do not want to be a reference for you, then being surprised by a call is even less likely to yield positive results for you.

Asking for permission also helps ensure that you provide the correct contact details of your references.

Who Are Good References on a Resume?

Selection is vital.

Perhaps you have worked in a number of jobs and have access to reference options from countless colleagues. In addition, you may have a significant number of former subordinates, supervisors, and bosses.

Your go-to should not just be to pick out the most prestigious ones. Relevance matters.

A mix is great, as it allows for a fuller character picture based on how you are perceived by both your superiors and your subordinates.

Below is a list of potential references:

• Former or current supervisor
• Former or current colleague
• Former of current subordinate
• Former or current professor/teacher
• Business partner

If your job search is discreet, it goes without saying that your current coworkers will not be a good option for you.

Remember to be specific when talking to your references.

Do you recall that time that you collaborated on a project with your reference and you saw a 10% rise in net profit in that area? Remind them. Then when called, they can say:

Yes. I worked with Mr. Smith for 7 years at ABC Company. We achieved a lot together, but a highlight was when we collaborated on a project which led to a 10% rise in net profit. It was a shame that he had to leave us, but I would absolutely give my recommendation.

That is a lot better than them receiving a call out of the blue and saying:

Yes. I worked with Mr Smith for some time. He was a good worker who I liked working with. Yeah, I’d recommend him.

Being on the same page as who is giving your reference will help you a lot.

Additionally, advice about confidential applications is different.

If you don’t want your current employer to know, be smart.

You want to avoid asking anyone currently working for, or in contact with, your employer.

No matter who you ask, and if they promise to keep it confidential, they still can reveal your secret, even by accident.

Eliminate that risk by asking people who aren’t connected to your current job.

If you struggle to think of a specific achievement that your reference can highlight, remember to check key achievements in that shared job on your resume.

Who Are Bad References on a Resume?

Apart from colleagues and your current boss (if you are applying elsewhere discretely), there is a general rule that will you do well to remember.

When considering who should be a reference on your resume, remember that it is almost always a drawback to have personal rather than professional references.

A colleague that you worked with for years is a far better option than an aunt of yours that thinks your lemon drizzle cake is worth dying for.

It is great to make these personal connections and memories, but a potential employer will doubt a good reference from a relative as they are unlikely to mention any drawbacks, no matter how messy your bedroom is.

Friends are generally a no-no as well. However, if they currently work where you are applying, that may be more acceptable.

Also, remember anyone that you have clashed with is not someone you should list as a reference.

Even if things are better between the two of you now, you never know for sure that they are not going to mention it.

They might say something like this:

In our time working together, Ms. Smith was a diligent worker who endeavored to do her job to the best of her ability. However, she was occasionally prone to butting heads with colleagues if she disagreed about something. That may not be an issue now, but it was in my experience.

Being on better terms as you leave is great, but your history with that colleague remains.

In times like these, it is certainly best to err on the side of caution.

If there are two colleagues of note in the same job, but you only butted heads with one of them, then it should be obvious as to who to go with.

Stay on the safe side.

Shortlist the Perfect References

As stated before, you need to select the best references.

Depending on what role you are applying for, you can often select what references are better than others.

What references can highlight your skills that are the most relevant to this job?

What references currently work in that field, or a similar field?

Always aim to have these targeted references.

If you are a graduate in your early 20s, getting a reference from a professor is great. However, in your 40s, it is not nearly as ideal. They can only vouch for your aptitude a long time ago.

Be as up to date as you can, especially for key references.

Always have individuals lined up for references if you are beginning a job search. That way, you don’t have to pull a list together on very short notice.

Sample Email to Request a Reference

You may have to ask for a reference via email rather than on the phone or in person.

You have the opportunity here to choose your words carefully. Make the most of this by keeping the email from being vague.

Below is a sample of how an email to a reference might look:

Hi [Reference Name],

I hope you are well and having a great week!

We had talked previously about you providing a reference for me. I have since applied for [Job] at [Company]. I believe that I will likely be considered, in which case, references would be required. If you do not wish to provide a reference after all, that is absolutely fine.

However, the work that we did together remains one of the fondest professional memories that I have. I especially recall when we worked on [project] and saw [results]. I would be very grateful if you were willing to talk a little about this.

Best Wishes,

[Your Name]

See what that accomplishes?

It doesn’t only ask for a reference.

The email says where you have applied, and it provides some ammunition for the reference to use.

The reference is up to speed on your application because of your email. This is definitely better than expecting them to figure it out for themselves.

Even if they are not up for it, the worst that can happen is that they say no.

Once you have sent a number of these emails out, you should have a large enough list of references. Send individual messages though. Do not copy and paste the same message for everyone.

Remember to Follow Up

Make sure that whoever is giving your reference is fully up to speed with where you are in the process.

Tell them what jobs you have applied to, let them see your resume. Tell them that they are listed as a reference, even remind them of key things to think about highlighting.

If they agree and then give a reference for you, thank them.

That may be taking them for a coffee, or sending them a nice email.

If they help you land the job, do the same again. Giving a special thanks to individuals is a good thing to do, and it helps if you need another reference another time!

Always be willing to return the favor if a reference asks.

Key Takeaways

To summarize then, we can consider these as key takeaways:

• Ensure that you select references wisely, and have them fully up to speed on your job search. Ensure that you ask permission before using a reference.
• Do not include references on your resume unless specifically instructed to do so.
• The number of references you give can correlate with your experience and where you are applying to. A graduate can get away with 3, an executive applicant may need as many as 7.
• Format your reference sheet in the same way as you format your resume.

Not getting asked for your references?

Find My Profession is a highly rated resume writing service. Use this service and you will have a high-quality resume that can help you progress to the stage where you need to share references!

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Including References on Your Resume: Formatting Examples

As much as we would like to land our dream job based solely on our skills, experience, and qualifications, references still play a significant role in the hiring process. Including references on your resume can provide potential employers with valuable insight and reinforce the skills and achievements you’ve highlighted in your application.

Quality references can speak to your work ethic, interpersonal skills, and overall fit for the role you’re applying for. They can also give employers peace of mind that you’re a reliable and trustworthy candidate. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that the references on your resume reflect positively on you and align with the job you’re pursuing.

With the right formatting and placement of references, you can enhance the overall impact of your resume and improve your chances of securing the job you’ve been dreaming of. So sit back, take some notes, and let’s dive into the world of including references on your resume.

Who Should You Ask for a Reference?

When it comes to including references on your resume, choosing the right individuals to provide these references is crucial. The three main types of references you might want to consider are professional, personal, and academic.

A. Professional References

Professional references are often the most important type of reference to include on your resume, especially if you are applying for a job in a specific industry or field. These references should be individuals whom you have worked with or for in a professional capacity, such as former managers, supervisors, or colleagues who can speak to your work ethic, job-related skills, and achievements.

When choosing professional references, it’s important to consider the relevance of their experience and expertise to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in marketing, a former supervisor who can speak to your digital marketing skills and experience would be a valuable reference.

B. Personal References

While personal references may not carry as much weight as professional references, they can still be valuable additions to your resume. Personal references can include individuals who know you well outside of a professional setting, such as mentors, coaches, or community leaders who can speak to your character and personal qualities.

When choosing personal references, it’s important to choose individuals who can speak to your strengths as they relate to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in customer service, a personal reference who has interacted with you in that capacity could be a valuable addition to your resume.

C. Academic References

For recent graduates or individuals who have limited professional experience, academic references can be a great addition to your resume. These references should be individuals who have served as your instructors or academic advisors and can speak to your academic achievements, work ethic, and potential.

When choosing academic references, it’s important to choose individuals who are familiar with your academic achievements in the field related to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in engineering, a reference from a professor who taught you in an engineering course would be more valuable than a reference from a professor in a different field.

Choosing the right individuals to provide references on your resume is an important part of the job search process. By including professional, personal, and academic references who can speak to your skills, abilities, and character, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

When Should You Include References on Your Resume?

When it comes to resumes, the question of including references always arises. Is it necessary to include them? Should they be included before or after a job interview? In this section, we will explore the appropriate times to include references on your resume.

A. Preparing for Your Job Hunt

When preparing for your job hunt, it is not necessary to include references on your resume. Your focus at this stage should be on creating a compelling resume that grabs the attention of potential employers. Your resume should highlight your skills, accomplishments, and experiences that make you the best candidate for the job. Keep in mind that employers will likely ask for references during the interview process, so it is important to have them ready.

However, it is recommended that you prepare a separate reference sheet to provide to potential employers. This sheet should include the names, titles, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least three professional references. Make sure to obtain their permission before listing them as references.

B. Before a Job Interview

As you prepare for a job interview, it is a good idea to include a line on your resume stating “references available upon request.” This indicates to potential employers that you have references available and are willing to provide them.

At this stage, you should also review your reference sheet to ensure that your references are still appropriate and available. If any of your references have changed jobs or contact information, make sure to update their information on your sheet. You want to make sure that your potential employer can easily contact your references to gain insight into your work experience and qualifications.

C. After a Job Interview

After a job interview, it is appropriate to include your references on your thank-you email or letter. This not only keeps your references informed of your job search progress, but it also provides potential employers with easy access to your references. Make sure to only include references that you have obtained permission from and are willing to vouch for your qualifications.

You should not include references on your resume when preparing for your job hunt. Instead, create a separate reference sheet that you can provide to potential employers upon request. Before a job interview, indicate that your references are available upon request and review your reference sheet to ensure that your references are up-to-date. After a job interview, include your references on your thank-you email or letter, but only if they have given consent to be listed as a reference.

How to Format Your References on Your Resume

When it comes to adding references on your resume, there are some basic formatting guidelines that you should adhere to. In this section, we’ll cover these guidelines, as well as choosing the right references and listing them in the correct order. We’ll also discuss how to incorporate your references into your resume effectively.

A. Basic Formatting Guidelines

When it comes to adding your references on your resume, you should always include a separate section titled “References” or “Professional References.” This section should be placed after your work experience and education sections.

Each reference should be listed on a separate line, and you should include the following details:

• The reference’s full name
• Their job title and company
• Their email address and phone number
• The relationship you have with the reference (e.g. supervisor, colleague, etc.)

Make sure that you have obtained permission from your references before including their information on your resume. It’s also a good idea to let them know when you apply for a job and give them an idea of what the company is looking for.

B. Choosing the Right References

When choosing your references, it’s important to select the right people who can speak to your strengths and work experience. Your references should be professional contacts who you have worked closely with and who can provide insights about your work personality, character and abilities.

It’s important to note that not all references carry the same weight. Hiring managers and recruiters will be more interested in people who can provide insights into your most recent job experience, as well as those who have worked with you for a longer period of time.

C. Listing References in the Correct Order

It’s important to list your references in the correct order so that hiring managers can quickly find the most relevant references. Here’s an example of the order you may want to consider:

• Direct supervisors (e.g. current or former managers)
• Colleagues who you have worked closely with
• Professional contacts (e.g. people with whom you have collaborated on a project or worked on a committee)

D. Incorporating References in Your Resume

There are two ways you can incorporate your references into your resume: by including them in the “References” section or mentioning them in your work experience section.

If you choose to mention your references in your work experience section, make sure to include the name, job title and company of the reference. For example:

“Collaborated with [Reference Name], [Reference Job Title] at [Reference Company] to successfully launch a new product line.”

If you use this approach, make sure to also include a separate “References” section at the end of your resume.

Formatting your references correctly is an important part of creating an effective resume. Be sure to follow the basic formatting guidelines and choose the right references who can help support your candidacy.

Examples of Including References on Your Resume

Example 1: entry-level resume.

Mike Smith Manager, ABC Inc. (123) 456-7890 mike.smith.

@example.com

John Johnson Supervisor, XYZ Company (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Example 2: Experienced Professional Resume

Jane Williams Vice President, DEF Corporation (555) 123-4567 [email protected]

Sam Davis Senior Manager, GHI Company (444) 555-6666 [email protected]

When to Include References on Your Resume

It is generally recommended not to include references directly on your resume. Instead, you can create a separate document called a “References List” or “Professional References” to provide to employers when requested. This approach allows you to tailor your resume to highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications, while keeping the references readily available when needed.

However, if the job posting specifically requests references or if you have been explicitly asked to provide references upfront, you can include them on your resume. Make sure to seek permission from your references beforehand and inform them about the jobs you are applying for, so they are prepared to speak positively about your qualifications and abilities.

Remember, references are typically contacted at later stages of the hiring process when the employer is seriously considering your candidacy. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the individuals you list as references can provide relevant and positive insights into your professional abilities.

How to Format References on Your Resume

If you decide to include references on your resume, you can follow these formatting guidelines:

• Create a separate section titled “References” or “Professional References” at the end of your resume.
• List the names of your references, along with their professional titles, companies, phone numbers, and email addresses.

[Reference Name] [Professional Title] [Company] [Phone Number] [Email Address]

• Include at least two to three references, preferably from different professional contexts (e.g., former supervisors, colleagues, or clients).
• Inform your references that you have listed them on your resume and provide them with a copy of your updated resume.

Remember to keep your references list updated, removing or replacing references as needed. It’s also a good practice to thank your references for their support and provide them with updates on your job search progress.

Should You Include “References Available Upon Request” on Your Resume?

When it comes to including references on your resume, there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of stating “References Available Upon Request.” Here are some pros and cons to consider before including this phrase:

A. Pros and Cons of Including This Phrase

• It informs potential employers that you have references available if needed.
• It can show that you are comfortable and confident in providing references.
• It can save space on your resume by not listing specific references.
• It can be seen as outdated or unnecessary, as most employers assume references are available.
• It can take up valuable space on your resume that could be used for more relevant information.
• It can make you seem inexperienced or unsure of your references.

B. Alternatives to Mentioning References

Rather than stating “References Available Upon Request”, consider the following alternatives:

• Create a separate document listing your references, with a header that matches your resume format. This can show a more professional approach and allow for more detail on your references.
• Use a more proactive approach by stating “References provided upon request” or “Available to provide references upon request” in a cover letter or during an interview. This shows initiative and that you are willing to provide references if needed.
• If the job application specifically asks for references, include them in a separate section of your resume or provide them when asked.

It’s important to keep in mind that the decision to include or not include references and the manner in which they are presented can vary depending on the industry, job position, and personal preference. It is important to prioritize the most relevant and impactful information on your resume.

How to Ask for a Reference for Your Resume

If you’ve been asked to include references on your resume, you may be wondering the best way to go about asking for them. Follow these tips for requesting a reference, crafting a reference request letter, and following up with your references.

A. Tips for Requesting a Reference

When you’re looking to request a reference, there are a few things you should consider:

Choose the right people: Make sure the people you’re asking are the ones who know your work the best. Try to select people who can speak to your skills specifically related to the job you’re applying for.

Ask early: Be respectful of your references’ time and ask them at least a few weeks before you need their response.

Be clear about expectations: Let them know what kind of job you’re applying for, why you think they’d be a valuable reference, and what specific skills or experiences you’d like them to highlight.

Offer information: Providing your references with your resume and job description can be helpful in drafting a reference letter.

B. Crafting a Reference Request Letter

When you’re ready to ask someone for a reference, consider crafting a reference request letter. Some tips for a strong letter include:

Be professional: Use formal language and proper formatting.

Be specific: Provide the recipient with all necessary information, such as the job you’re applying for, the hiring company’s name and contact information, and the specific skills or experiences you’d like the reference letter to address.

Show gratitude: Express your thankfulness for their time and support.

Include your resume: Enclose a copy of your resume to provide additional context.

Be courteous: Allow them to decline if they can’t provide a reference, and thank them for their consideration.

C. Following Up with Your References

After requesting a reference, it’s important to follow up to ensure that they have submitted the letter by the deadline. Here are some steps to follow up:

Provide reminders: Send regular reminders leading up to the deadline, including a final reminder a few days prior.

Show appreciation: Thank them once again for their time and effort in providing the reference.

Notify them of the outcome: Let them know whether or not you got the job and how much you appreciate their support in the process.

Asking for a reference may seem daunting, but by following these tips, crafting a strong reference request letter, and following up appropriately, you’ll be on your way to securing a great reference for your resume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Including References on Your Resume

When it comes to including references on your resume, there are a variety of common mistakes that can be made. In order to ensure that your references section is as strong and effective as possible, it’s important to avoid these common errors.

A. Using the Wrong References

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when including references on your resume is using the wrong references. This can include references who are not relevant to the job you’re applying for, or those who may not have a positive opinion of your work.

Before including references on your resume, take some time to carefully consider who you want to include. Make sure that the individuals you choose are relevant to the job you’re applying for, and that they have positive things to say about your work experience and skills.

B. Failing to Contact Your References Ahead of Time

Another big mistake is failing to contact your references ahead of time. It’s important to reach out to your references and ask for their permission before including them on your resume. Additionally, you should let them know which specific jobs you’re applying for, so that they can tailor their reference accordingly.

By failing to contact your references ahead of time, you run the risk of them being unprepared to speak to your skills and qualifications. This can reflect poorly on you as a candidate, so it’s important to take the time to properly communicate with your references before including them on your resume.

C. Incorrectly Formatting Your References

Correct formatting is key when it comes to including references on your resume. There are a few key things to keep in mind when formatting your references section:

• Include the name, job title, company, phone number and email address of each reference
• Use a legible font and clear formatting to make your reference section easy to read
• Make sure that your references section is consistently formatted throughout your resume

By paying close attention to the formatting of your references section, you can ensure that it is professional, easy to read, and aesthetically pleasing.

D. Including Unnecessary Information

Finally, it’s important to avoid including unnecessary information when including references on your resume. This can include personal information of the references or excessive details about their job role and responsibilities.

Instead, focus on including only the most relevant and important information about your references. This can include their name, job title, company, phone number and email address. By keeping your references section concise and to the point, you can help ensure that it is as effective and impactful as possible.

Avoiding these common mistakes when including references on your resume can help ensure that your references section is strong, effective, and contributes to your overall hiring potential. By taking the time to carefully consider your references and format your section properly, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

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