The Big Question: Should You Put References on Your Resume?
Let’s get straight to it: No, you should not list your references directly on your resume.
This practice is outdated for a few important reasons:
What about "References available upon request"?
This phrase is also a waste of space. It’s a given. Employers know you will provide references if they ask. Use that extra line on your resume to add another powerful bullet point about your achievements.
When Is the Right Time to Share Your References?
So, if they don’t go on your resume, when do you provide them?
Typically, a potential employer will request your references after a successful interview or when they are preparing to make a formal job offer. This is the final step in their due diligence process to confirm that you are who you say you are.
The best practice is to have a separate, neatly formatted document ready to go. When they ask, you can email it over immediately, showing you’re organized and on top of your game.
Choosing Your All-Star Reference Team
Not all references are created equal. You need to choose people who can speak enthusiastically and specifically about your professional abilities.
Who Makes a Great Professional Reference?
Your goal is to select people who have seen your work ethic, skills, and character in a professional setting. Think about:
Aim for a list of three to five strong professional references.
Who Should You Avoid Asking?
To maintain professionalism, steer clear of:
The Art of Asking: How to Request a Reference (The Right Way)
Never list someone as a reference without asking for their permission first. It's not just polite; it ensures they're prepared to give you a glowing review.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step way to ask:
Formatting Your Reference List Like a Pro
Your reference list should be a separate document that matches the look and feel of your resume. Keep it clean, simple, and professional.
Think of your reference sheet as the perfect companion to your resume. And just as a polished resume is crucial—something a great resume builder can help you nail—your reference list needs to look just as sharp.
For each reference, include the following:
Example Reference Entry:
Jane Doe
Senior Marketing Manager
Acme Corporation
Former Direct Supervisor
[email protected]
(555) 123-4567
By treating your references with respect and presenting them professionally, you add one more layer of polish to your job application.
It shows you’re a thoughtful, organized candidate—exactly the kind of person every company wants to hire. Good luck