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How to List References on...

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:

An example of how to list professional references on your resume. The example shows references from throughout a professional's career history. Each reference includes the person's name, current title, cell phone number, email, and a note on the relationship.

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.

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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.

When and How to List References on a Resume [+Examples]

Our customers have been hired by:

Should you include references on your resume? If so, then how to list references on a resume? And is there a template for a references page for a resume?

These are some tricky questions that need to be answered before you reach out to your previous colleagues for a good word. Professional references on resumes might be what's required in your situation. But they can also be a miss. So let's find out which one is it!

This resume references guide will teach you:

Should you put references on a resume or not.
How to put references on a resume the best way possible.
How to make a reference page for resumes and job applications.
What a good references on resume example looks like and how to choose the right format for references on a resume.

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes? Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here .

resume and reference page with green sidebar

Resume & References Example— See more resume examples here .

Do References Go on a Resume?

Career consultants and hiring managers all but agree that references should not be put on a resume .

Back when I got my first job, references on a resume were commonplace. My advisor in high school even told me to do it. But, just like with most peer-pressured decisions in high school, it is not what I would do now.

Is that a solid no, though? Well, there are special circumstances when you can include resume references, but you’ll know them when you see them. Generally, if the job listing or hiring manager specifically asks for a references page, then, by all means, include one!

For most of you, this should have answered your question, and you can continue on to learn how to tailor your resume , picking the best resume font , what to include on a cover letter , or how to email your resume .

If your mind’s made up, and you’ll be listing references on your resume, let’s continue.

Pro Tip : If you can’t decide whether to put references on the resume, then don’t include them. Stick with a resume without references.

Want to make a resume that will hook every recruiter and get you that interview? Get our free checklist and learn what makes a job-winning resume: 50 Things You Need to Do Before You Send Your Resume

How to Put References on a Resume

If you’ve decided that listing references on a resume can’t be avoided in your situation, it’s necessary to know how to add references to a resume the right way.

Here’s how to list references on a resume:

1. Put your name and "References" on top of a separate page.

2. Format all references the same way: list full names, job titles, companies, and contact info.

3. Add at least 3 professional references.

4. Inform your references before you submit a job application with their contact info!

See this pratical example of resume reference page list entry:

That’s how you format each entry of a resume reference list. Include as much of it as you can, and don’t add more than these items, unless requested. How many references on resumes? Don’t worry, we’ll get to that in just a moment.

Pro Tip : Use LinkedIn as a resource to verify that you are stating the correct job titles .

Should resume references be on a separate page?

Definitely. Avoid the ubiquitous “Resume references available upon request” statement of the past . If you’re going to create a resume references section, use a dedicated resume references page, which you can add as the last page of your application.

Should I put “references available upon request” on my resume?

No. Putting "references available upon request" at the end of your resume is one of the big resume mistakes. Not only are you wasting your resume’s valuable real estate, but they know that your references are available upon request .

Hold Your Endorses

Even if you’ve concluded that you will be listing references on a resume, hold off for now. In the earliest stages of the hiring process, there isn’t a need to provide your chosen references for job applications just yet. Plus, you’ll be able to tailor your resume references sheet to the hiring manager’s and company’s needs as you learn more about them during the initial phases of the hiring process and interviews.

Pro Tip : When writing your list of references, make sure to keep them consistent. Locate and include the same info for each (e.g., phone number), and don’t include an entry otherwise.

How to list professional references on a resume

Ugh! So many resume rules! Don’t worry, we’ve simplified them here: Resume Dos and Don'ts

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a professional resume template here for free .

A view from the Zety resume builder outlining the process of populating the work experience section and a variety of pre-written resume descriptions recommended for the specific occupation.

When you’re done, our easy resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

How to Choose Professional Resume References & How to Request Them

You’re going to put a few references as a list to be included with your next resume.

But you’ve got to be picky, and you need to ask permission first, even if you’re sure they won’t mind.

How many references should you have on a resume?

Three to five is the ideal number of references for a resume.

If the job description or the company have specifically requested that you include a list of references (and this should really be the only reason that you do), three to five strategically-chosen people are just right. Any more and you’re just wasting people’s time; any less and you’ll look like you don’t have too many people who can afford you a positive endorsement.

Who is a good reference for a resume?

The best references to add are working professionals related to the industry to which you are applying but unrelated to you in a familial sense. Try and get as diverse a group as possible (not all direct supervisors).

Here are types of references to include on your resume references list:

Former employer
Former boss
Supervisor (not necessarily your direct manager)
Advisor (including your academic advisors)
Business/project partner
Friend (only when they currently work at a company you're applying to).

Just make sure to include people who can speak positively about your experience, skills and work ethic. Never list someone who is or was in any type of professional conflict with you.

How to ask someone to be your reference?

Don’t just jot down names on your resume references list as they pop into your thoughts. It is polite to ask first, but this gives you the additional perk of checking to make sure their contact information is correct. Give a call or send an email to be semi-formal.

Personal vs professional references

Personal references are generally not recommended when putting references on a resume. Why? Well, family’s family, so they wouldn’t place much weight if they realize a reference entry is related to you. Plus, it has the secondary disadvantage of making you look like you couldn’t find enough professional references. Stick with professional references if at all possible (unless you are writing a resume with no experience ).

Following up

After you’ve requested your reference, it is a prudent practice to thank them for their help. Also, share with them a copy of the resume you are submitting so that they can be on the same page if and when the hiring manager calls them up. Finally, when you get the job, take them out for a nice dinner to pay them back!

Pro Tip : Be sure to thank your references by sending a quick follow-up email or note. Not only is this the courteous thing to do, but it will also remind them that they can expect a call in the near future from your prospective employer.

How to Format the Resume References Page

If you decided to list job references, do so on a separate reference page attached to your resume.

example of professional resume references page

Use our cover letter builder to create your own resume reference page that matches your resume and cover letter!

This is how to write a professional resume references page for your resume:

Format your references page the same way you format your cover letter, and possibly your resume, too. If you have slight differences between your resume’s letterhead and the one on your cover letter, copy the cover letter.

Your name and address should go on the very top, and it can be left-, right-, or center-oriented (follow the same style as your other documents). Include your phone number and email address.

Follow that with the date, then the company address, left-aligned above your first reference entry: first the recruiter’s name (if you have it), then the company’s name, and then the company’s address.

Finally, add reference titles/subtitles such as “References” or “Professional References” before listing 3-5 entries of people who can vouch for your qualifications for a job. If you have both professional references and personal references, you can add both subtitles.

When formatting each entry, follow the same format for references on a resume we described in section 2 of this guide.

Want to make a great resume references sheet that matches your CV and cover letter like the resume references examples we have here? Our resume builder’s cover letter generator is just the tool for you. Or, check out our handy list of cover letter tips !

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:

A matching set of professional job application documents, comprising a resume and cover letter, crafted with the Zety resume editor utilizing the Modern resume template that includes a format that includes two columns and stylish rectangles in the header and footer areas.

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Key Takeaway

Job references should never be included on a resume.

Rarely, however, references may be included with a resume, but always put them on a separate references page.

This is how to write a professional list of references (a references page):

Choose wisely - You should pick between 3 to 5 references to include if you’ll include any at all. Pick professional references over personal ones, and select those that are closest to your line of work.
Ask first - Be sure to get permission before listing someone as a professional reference. Thank them afterward and remind them to expect a call.
Use the right formatting - There’s a right way to format the entries of a reference page, and there is a correct way to structure the reference sheet itself.

Now, just brush up on the STAR method and some interview tips and you'll be all set for your big meeting!

So, now that that’s sorted, do you have any questions on how to list references on a resume? Not sure if you should add a resume references page at all? Get at us in the comments below and we will answer your questions. Thanks for reading!

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How to List References on a Resume in 2024

by Heather O'Neill, CPRW | Career Expert

Last Updated: January 24, 2024

Table of contents

Do I need references on my resume?

How to format resume references + template and examples, how to create your list of references, how to request a reference letter, key takeaways, resume references faq.

Many job seekers have questions about how and when to share references with a potential employer. Do references go on a resume, or should they be on a separate page? Do you always need to provide references in the first place? Read on to learn the right way to share professional and personal references. Here we will cover:

How to decide if you need references on your resume.
How to format your references.
How to create your list of references, including a reference letter template and examples
How to create your list of references.

Related Guides & Tips

References Available Upon Request
Resume Reference Letter

For most job seekers, it isn’t advisable to add references directly on your resume unless you are specifically asked to do so in the job ad. Since most employers check references only if they are planning to make you an offer, they don’t often expect to see them on your actual resume. The best way to prepare references for a resume is by writing up a list of references on a separate sheet of paper so that you’re ready to produce them when and if an employer requests them, but you are not using up valuable real estate on your resume.

To indicate that you have references that you are prepared to provide at a later date, add the phrase references available upon request at the bottom of your resume. Another idea is to write a cover letter that mentions your willingness to provide references when requested.

How you format your resume references will depend on how you plan to provide the information to a potential employer. Most job seekers will want to create a separate page for references, but in some cases, references will appear as a section on a resume. This is usually only done if the employer specifically requests it

Either way, your resume references will need to be formatted properly. Read on to learn how to format a separate page of resume references and how to write a resume with references on the page. And, use our handy resume references template to easily fill out your reference list or to create a resume references section if you truly need one. For more resume reference examples, review our resume examples page.

How to format references on a separate page + resume references template

Download template

For most job seekers, creating a separate page that contains resume references and their contact information is the way to go. We suggest creating a page with a header that is the same as or similar to the header on your cover letter and resume.

Each entry on the sheet should be uniformly formatted . Here is how each entry should look:

The reference description should be short, just a few words about how you know the person you are offering as a reference. It could be something like, X was my manager at the Polk Street AT&T store location from 2018-2020.

Download our resume reference example sheet above to create your own.

How to format a resume list of references section + example

If the job description explicitly states that you should include references on your resume, you can add a resume references section to your document to accomplish that. This section would sit alongside your professional summary , work experience and skills sections . Creating a section for resume references can also be easily accomplished by using our Resume Builder .

Here are some resume references examples to show you how that section might look on your document:

Typically, recruiters like to see at least three references for a role. Usually, you should provide three professional references but for students or others who are just entering the workforce, a relevant personal reference may be acceptable.

How to choose professional resume references

When choosing professional references, you should ask people who youve had positive work relationships with that can speak to your skills, experience and work ethic. This can be a former manager or someone who you managed. You can also choose a former colleague youve collaborated with who can attest to the quality of your performance. If you have limited work experience, you can also choose someone who you have worked with on a volunteer project or mentored outside of work say through a networking organization. To keep your job search private, avoid asking your current boss or co-workers for a reference.

How to choose personal resume references

A personal reference, also known as a character reference, is someone who you have not worked with in a professional setting but who can speak to your character and soft skills. This should be someone you have known for at least a year who can give examples of your values and positive personality traits. Personal references can be individuals from any area of your life school, sports, volunteer work but you should avoid adding family members or your spouse as a reference.

Choose carefully.

You only want to provide references who can speak enthusiastically about your abilities. Choose a former manager or colleague who you have worked closely with. In most cases, youll want to avoid asking your current boss or co-workers for a reference to keep your job search discreet.

Ask before you share.

Once you have created a list of references, reach out to them individually to get permission. For that reason, youll want to be sure that they have no reservations about recommending you for the role before you offer up their contact information. Ask if they would be comfortable recommending you for the role. If they say yes, proceed with the following steps.

Send an email.

Once they have agreed to provide a reference, send your contact an email with a link to the job ad, your current resume and the name of the recruiter who will be reaching out to them. Especially if an employer wants a printed reference letter, consider outlining some talking points to cover.

Set up a time to talk.

Unless you currently interact with your references on a regular basis, its a good idea to set a time for a quick catch up before the recruiter calls them. This will give you an opportunity to answer any questions they might have. If there is a certain area of your background that youd like your reference to focus on say, your keen analytics skills or your stellar customer service record this is the right time to discuss that.

Confirm their contact information.

Ask each reference for their preferred method of communication, i.e., email or telephone. Then, confirm that you have the correct contact information. Finally, confirm their current job title and company.

Follow up with a thank you.

Once a recruiter has reached out to your reference, send them a thank you note. Whether the reference is given via phone or email, it takes time and planning. Write a note that acknowledges their generosity and offer to reciprocate when needed.

Always create a separate references page unless otherwise instructed.
Choose three to five references. These should mainly be professional references and one personal reference.
Choose your references carefully only ask people who will have positive things to say about your performance and personality.
Ask permission from your references before sharing their contact information.
Use the right formatting when adding your references.

Is it ok to not put references on a resume?

What if i have no references, do employers really care about references.

Was this information helpful? Let us know!

Heather O'Neill, CPRW

Heather is the Content Strategy Manager for Resume Now and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than ten years of experience writing about job search and career topics. She is based in San Francisco.

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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

To learn more about all the elements of creating a great resume, check out our beautiful resume template designs and resume examples for inspiration!

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How to List References on a Resume in 2024 (with Templates)

A carefully crafted reference page can give you a competitive edge over other job candidates. But do you know how to list references on a resume? You’re about to find out.

Should I put references on my resume? Can I add my former colleague as a reference? Is there a reliable references template that I can use?

Those questions can give you a headache. But before you grab your favorite painkiller, remember that the answers are just a few scrolls (or swipes) away.

This guide will help you:

Decide whether you need to put professional references on your resume.
Avoid common mistakes that can make your resume references useless.
Select the right people for a reference page for your resume.
Format your resume references list like a pro.

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

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What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your resume.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan My previous resume was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Done with crafting your resume—well, except for the references? If you need extra help with resume writing, check out these guides:

How to List Education on a Resume
How to Write a Resume
Professional Resume Profile Summary
Best Resume Format
Resume Header
Resume Job Description
Resume Sections
What Skills to Put on a Resume
What to Put on a Resume

Should I Put References on My Resume?

What’s the similarity between coffee mugs and resume reference lists? Both pair well with a resume, but they shouldn’t be right on your resume .

Unless the job ad states explicitly that you need to include references on your resume, leave them out.

However, preparing a reference list and keeping it ready is a good idea. The recruiter may ask for references later in the recruitment process. Then, you’ll send it in as a separate page matching your resume and cover letter design.

Why Shouldn’t You Include References on Your Resume?

Remember that the standard length for a resume is one page . A two-page resume only makes sense if you’re a seasoned pro with decades of professional awards and achievements .

Once you realize that you’ve only got one page, space becomes a precious commodity. And a resume references list can easily take up half a page if you’re not careful!

So, don’t put them on your resume unless you're asked to.

Writing “References Available on Request” on a Resume: Yes or No?

Many people add “References available on request” to their resumes, but HR experts consider this an outdated practice. This extra sentence is just a cliché that takes up valuable space and doesn’t add any new information.

Expert Hint: Check out other common resume mistakes you could make without even knowing it. Also, discover our resume writing tips that will skyrocket your chances of getting that dream job by making your resume stand out from the crowd.

How to List References on a Resume

Let’s go through creating a references page for your resume step by step:

1. Select the Right Resume References

Your first step is to pick the right people for your resume references list.

Remember that you should only include professional references—personal references from family members and friends are usually irrelevant and heavily biased, so recruiters won’t take them seriously.

And how many references for a resume is enough?

Unless specified otherwise, aim for 3–5 professional references. Anything above five references is too many, and anything under 3 makes it look like you couldn’t find anyone who can vouch for you.

Manager or direct supervisor (current or former)
Co-worker (current or former)
Employee who reports directly to you
Academic advisor (current or former)
Academic or professional mentor

All of these people can vouch for your professional skills, work ethic, and personal qualities. And, unless they hold a grudge against you, they’ll be honest in their feedback.

It might sound obvious, but don’t invite someone who might hold a grudge against you to be your reference . They might tell nasty things about you out of sheer spite and sabotage your job-seeking efforts.

Best friend
Manager or co-workers with who you didn’t get along
Professor whose single lecture you attended a while ago
Random LinkedIn contact who liked your post three years ago

Those people don’t make good resume references. Personal references from family and friends have zero value for recruiters, and references from strangers just don’t make sense.

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, and highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You're the perfect candidate, and we'll prove it. Use our resume builder now .

2. Give Your Contacts a Fair Heads-Up

Don’t you hate when your phone number somehow lands in a telemarketer database, and you’re bombarded with unsolicited calls?

Well, this is what your former boss or academic supervisor might feel like when, suddenly, they get a call from a recruiter and have to answer questions about you. Heck, they might not even remember who you are!

Don’t give anyone’s contact information without their explicit permission.

Before you include anyone on your references page, contact them and ask them if it would be OK to mention them on your resume as a reference. If they’re uncomfortable with your request, respect their decision.

3. Craft the Reference Page for Your Resume

Now, let’s put these references on your resume, Or, in most cases, into a separate document styled like your resume and cover letter.

The first thing to put on your reference page is a header. Format it like a cover letter header :

Resume References Template—Header Example

[Your Name]

[Street Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Phone Number]

[Today’s Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[Their Professional Title]

[Company Name]

After that, add a heading. “ Professional References ” is your best choice. Now’s the time to list your 3–5 entries.

Here’s how to list each of your references on your resume reference sheet:

What to Include on Your References List

Reference’s First & Last Name
Their Professional Title
Name of Their Company
Company Street Address
Company City, State & Zip Code
Reference’s Work Phone Number
Reference’s Work Email Address

Let’s look at a real-life reference list example:

Jesse M. Sanders

Senior Project Manager

DeerSweater Inc.

1945 Raintree Boulevard

Minneapolis, MN, 55402

763-976-1599

[email protected]

This is what great references on a resume look like.

Now let’s look at a different example:

651-263-5930 (please call in the evenings)

[email protected]

This one is wrong on quite a few levels. Can you spot all the mistakes?

Jesse’s job title probably isn’t “PM.”
The reference contains his personal phone number.
It also includes his very personal email address.

Expert Hint: Before creating an entry on your references page, do a quick LinkedIn search to check whether that person still works at the same place and has the same job title. If they’ve changed their job, provide the most recent contact information, so if someone was your boss at ABC Inc. but has since moved to DEF Inc., list DEF Inc. as their company.

4. Format Your Reference List

Format your professional references just like you would format your cover letter :

1-inch resume margins on all sides
An easy-to-read resume font
All paragraphs aligned to the left
Double-spacing between entries

To add that little extra, you can put your reference’s name in bold letters and their job title in italics .

These are the basics. But… let’s be honest, do you want a basic job application or a job application that stands out ?

If you find the second option more exciting, opt for a professional resume builder and cover letter builder combo. Our great resume templates & cover letter templates will get the formatting exactly right, and all the documents in your job application will have a matching design.

To create your references list, just use the cover letter builder.

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

Key Takeaways

Here’s what you should know about putting references on a resume:

Don’t put your professional references directly on your resume unless the job ad clearly says otherwise.
Create a separate document with resume references and only submit it if requested.
Aim for 3–5 references from people, such as managers, colleagues, or academic mentors.
Always ask your contacts for their permission to mention them on your resume.
Use a cover letter builder to ensure your references list matches your resume and cover letter.

Any questions on how to write a references page for your resume? Any tips or advice on how to make a reference list for a resume? Let’s chat about it in the comments below, and, as always, thanks for reading!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Olga is a career expert with a background in teaching. At ResumeLab, she writes actionable guides to help job-seekers highlight their unique strengths and unlock their career potential.

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How to Write a Resume Reference List With Examples

Quick Navigation:

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.

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 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.

[Featured image] Woman in a yellow sweater with glasses looking at a resume

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.

[Sample Resume Reference List] Black text on a white background

Create your own resume reference list using this template .

Get ready for your next job search with Coursera

You can never be too prepared for a new job search. Whether you're a first-time job seeker or an established professional, you might consider taking a cost-effective, online course to help you develop job-relevant skills.

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.

Keep reading

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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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A quick guide on how to list references on a resume

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Should you include references on your resume?

Choosing the right references, what information do you need for a reference, tips and tricks for creating a reference sheet, a resume rolodex on the ready.

Job searching is nerve-wracking . We want our resume to leave a good first impression on hiring managers and don’t want to waste applying to positions we won’t hear back from.

Some trial and error is inevitable when applying for jobs. There’s always a learning curve if you’re entering the workforce or switching industries. But one piece of advice will help ease the process: always tailor applications to the job posting. This includes references.

Choosing whether to include a reference section on your resume depends on several factors, including your work experience and the job ad. We’ll discuss how to list references on a resume and when to include them.

We’ll also note how to write and format a reference list and include templates and tips to get you started.

In most cases, including references on your resume isn’t necessary — but that doesn’t mean it’s always a bad idea.

When hiring managers look at a resume, their main focus is auditing your skills and work experience to see if you qualify for the role. Based on that information, they’ll decide whether or not to invite you for an interview. Contacting references usually happens after you move past this first meeting.

Resumes are most effective when they’re clean and concise. They get through applicant tracking systems more successfully and are easier for hiring managers to read.

When you submit a resume online, it often goes through an applicant tracking software which detects specifics the employer has outlined. If it notices these specifications, your resume moves to the next stage. According to Jobscan, 99% of Fortune 500 companies use applicant tracking systems , so it’s worth simplifying your resume by omitting references to successfully move through these.

But that doesn't mean requiring references for a job is obsolete. You should always prepare to provide references to a potential employer by creating a resume reference list, should they ask for one.

A resume reference list is a separate document with all your references’ contact information. Recruiters, hiring managers, or direct managers may contact people on your resume reference list to verify your work history and job performance or ask behavioral questions to understand your character.

While in most cases you should only offer references when a hiring manager requests, if you’re a university student, recent grad, or a candidate applying to an entry-level position, providing references will help bolster your application.

Even if a recruiter doesn't call your references before the interview, including them is a great way to demonstrate that you’ve taken initiative to build professional relationships .

Some of the best career advice to take in earnest is to tailor your resume to each job posting. This is the best way to align your skills and experience with the company culture and job description.

Using similar language to the job description when advertising your hard and soft skills makes it easier for recruiters to immediately notice you qualify for the position.

The same rings true when sending references.

Imagine you’re a graphic designer applying for two positions. One is client-facing, while the other requires you to work exclusively with an internal project manager.

In the first scenario, you’ll want to include a former client that can attest to your work ethic and ability to meet deadlines and manage projects. In the latter, you’ll want to include former managers and direct supervisors to vouch for your ability to work in a more collaborative setting .

Woman-reading-folder-at-desk-in-living-room-how-to-list-references-on-a-resume

When narrowing down your choices, consider people that’ll give good character references . Choose contacts who will sing your praises and highlight your strongest qualities, skills, and qualifications.

These are the best people to include as references:

Current or former manager or direct supervisor
Current or former colleague
Current or former client
Academic advisor, professional mentor, or career coach

Make sure you’re comfortable with your references knowing you’re actively looking for a job, especially if they’re people you currently work with. Asking a present colleague or manager might create unnecessary tension at your job — especially if you aren’t committed to leaving.

It's also essential to ask people if they’re willing to be a reference for you before giving their information out. Confirm people’s preferred mode of contact before sending reference information.

Some companies require a lengthy phone call with your reference, while a brief email is enough for others. Be sure you respect your references' time and preferences by giving them time to prepare and a heads up if an interview goes well.

It’s also nice to send a thank you note to those who accept being your reference, especially if a potential employer contacts them, to express gratitude and strengthen your connection.

Writing a reference on a resume or reference sheet differs slightly. With a reference sheet, you have more room and should include the following:

Reference name
Company name and current job title
Brief description of your relationship (former colleague, previous employer, ongoing or past client)
Number of years you worked together
Company address, including professional phone number and email address

Female-student-listening-to-co-student-how-to-list-references-on-a-resume

The way you include references on your resume will be sparser, as you’ll have less space. Here’s how to format references on a resume:

Company name, job title, relationship
Preferred form of contact

If you’re really tight for space, just add “References available upon request” at the bottom so employers know you have some prepared if needed.

Include 2–3 references on a resume and 3–5 on a reference sheet. Never submit your reference sheet with your resume — save it for employers that ask. You can prepare one and bring it to an interview in case they request it in the moment.

You should also have an easily editable file to send with a follow-up email to the hiring manager if you’re asked for references during a phone or video interview.

A reference sheet is a valuable way to prepare for an interview. Here are three tips so your document persuades recruiters :

1. No personal info

Only include your reference's professional contact information, like a company email, address, and phone number. Don’t give away a contact's personal information unless they’ve explicitly asked you to.

Giving away someone's private information without their consent will likely catch them by surprise and could affect how they talk about you. It also looks less professional to employers.

serious-businessman-making-notes-at-workplace-how-to-list-references-on-a-resume

2. Keep it short and professional

Keep relationship descriptions short and sweet and avoid personal anecdotes or oversharing.

Here’s a good resume reference example:

Sheryl Dove, Head Project Manager

Sheryl was my direct supervisor at [company name] from 2019 to 2022. She oversaw my work on backend software development for more than 25 apps for 12 clients.

Why it works: The description gives all the appropriate, specific information (relationship, business, and years) with number-driven information that will tie into the skills and references on your resume.

Here’s an example of what not to write:

Sheryl Dove, Manager, [company name]

I loved working with Sheryl. She is an amazing project manager and I got to enjoy three great years with her. We worked together on lots of projects for many clients. I loved working on apps with her, and she also has the cutest dog.

Why it doesn't work: The description is unnecessarily personal and sounds like a recommendation for Sheryl rather than you. It also forces the hiring manager to do too much work to understand when and where you worked together.

Smiling-woman-writing-in-notebook-how-to-list-references-on-a-resume

3. Provide variety

The ideal set of references will show the breadth of your career. Try not to include too many individuals from one company or only your direct supervisor in each role. Instead, provide references that reflect the variety of experiences you’ve included on your resume.

Unless you’re new to the job market or industry, it’s best to keep references off your resume and instead include a reference sheet for requests. No matter the avenue you take, you should know how to list references on a resume or prepare a reference list for when you need one.

Scour your professional contacts and reach out to people you’ve worked directly with and had great experiences with.

Feel free to request certain information from them, like asking a reference to mention how well a specific project went or how quickly you were promoted. Your application will stand out thanks to your initiative and preparedness.

Ace your job search

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

What are professional references and how to ask for one (examples)

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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:

Example of a resume and resume references sheet with matching formats and colors

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:

Example of how to list resume references on your resume

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?

woman writing down her resume 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

man asking someone to be his reference for a new job

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).

Example of bad format or references on resume

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).

Example of a Great Resume Reference Sheet

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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Crafting the Perfect Résumé Reference List: Tips and Tricks

Résumé references are people who can vouch for you as an employee or colleague. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced professional , knowing how to choose and present the right references can impact your chances of landing your desired job. In this guide, we’ll show you who to include as references, how to format your résumé reference sheet, and how to list references on a résumé.

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What is a résumé reference?

A résumé reference is a person who can provide information about your character, work ethic, skills, and qualifications to support your job application. Potential employers contact references to gather insights into your abilities and suitability for a particular role. References for a résumé are typically presented in a reference sheet, which includes three to five references and their contact information. These references aren’t usually required to write a reference letter ; they just affirm your skills over the phone.

When do you need to provide references?

Typically, you’re asked to provide references toward the end of the job application process, after you’ve successfully completed initial screenings and interviews. Employers may request references when they’re seriously considering you as a candidate and want to gather additional information to help make a final hiring decision.

Who should you list as references?

It’s good practice to have a list of references ready when you’re applying for a job. How many references should be included in your application? Three to five are usually sufficient. The following are examples of contacts who might make good references:

Former or current* manager or supervisor
Former colleagues or coworkers
Former direct report
Former client or customer

If this is an application for your first job , these examples might work better for you:

Professors or academic advisers
Mentors or professional contacts
Internship supervisors

*Use your best judgment when approaching a current manager; if you don’t think they would support your application for another position, seek out a different person to be a reference.

Note, if someone is reluctant to be a reference, thank them and ask someone else. That person may not be comfortable giving you a reference or may not feel they know you well enough to attest to your skills.

Who should you avoid as a reference?

Don’t approach people with whom you did not have a positive working relationship for references—it puts them in an awkward position and could result in a reference that doesn’t highlight your best qualities. Steer clear of asking people you know through your job but you didn’t work with directly; they don’t have enough information about you as a co-worker to make a strong reference. Lastly, avoid personal friends or family members. They may be able to speak to your character, but they don’t have any insights into who you are as an employee, co-worker, or manager. The following people would not make solid references:

Co-workers or managers you’ve had a difficult relationship with
Colleagues you didn’t work with
Family members

What information should be included on a reference sheet?

Your résumé reference sheet should start with a header. In the header, include your full name, email address, and phone number. You don’t need to include your address, but if you’re applying for an in-person job, you may want to include the area where you’re located.

For each reference, you should list the following information:

Current position
Phone number
Email address
Reference description or how they know you

Reference sheet example

Here’s an example of a well-formatted reference sheet.

Amanda Appleby | 919-555-1234 | [email protected]

_________________________________________________________________________

Steve Schmidt

Lead Product Engineer, Apple

530-555-1234 | [email protected]

Former Supervisor

Leigha Sabounjian

Senior Product Development Engineer, SunTech

919-555-8765 | [email protected]

Matthew Fleck

Product Engineer, Esri

508-555-1234 | [email protected]

Former Colleague

Résumé reference FAQs

A résumé reference is someone you can list on your résumé who can vouch for your skills and qualities. They can help employers better understand who you are and why you’d be a great employee.

Usually you provide résumé references after you’ve submitted your résumé, completed interviews, and the employer is interested in hiring you.

Who should you list as your references?

Résumé references could be your previous bosses, professors, co-workers, mentors, or even someone you volunteered with.

A reference sheet should have a header with your name and contact information. Then list three to five references and include the following information for each one:

Reference description

When and How to List References on a Resume

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re wondering “Should I put references on my resume?” Don’t worry! You’re not alone and we’re here to help.

Is it OK to put references on a resume? The short answer is no (with exceptions), and here’s why:

A resume with references looks outdated to most and takes up valuable space that could be used to highlight your job skills and work experience. Plus, you don’t want to appear too eager. You’ll have your chance to provide a list of job references, but the start of your job application is not the time.

Now you’re probably thinking, “But wait! How do employers take you seriously without a list of qualified people who can vouch for your job qualifications?”

Keep reading! We’ll explain:

Why you shouldn’t put references on a resume (and the exceptions)
How to list references on a resume (if needed)
How to write a professional list of references (with examples)
How to choose the best references for a job application (and how many you need)

When should you put references on a resume?

You should only include a list of job references on a resume if the job description explicitly tells you to — which happens rarely.

Otherwise, keep your resume clear of any professional references and don’t write the phrase “references available upon request” — that’s a given.

How to list references on a resume?

Job seekers responding to a job ad that asks for resume references upfront are likely wondering how to write references in a resume.

Good question.

If you have room on your resume (remember, a professional resume should only be one to two pages long!) for three references, place them at the bottom of your document.

For each reference, include:

Their first and last names.
Their professional title.
The name of their workplace.
The company’s address, including city, state and ZIP code.
Their business phone number.
Their email address.

That’s a lot of information to add three times to your resume! We have another idea for job references to save you precious room on your resume. If you want to save all your valuable resume space for your job qualifications, the next section is for you.

How to create a reference page for a resume

So, if you shouldn’t include references on a resume, what should you do instead?

Create a separate document with your list of references!

Use the following steps to create a strong reference page for a resume filled with people who can speak highly of you and help your job application.

1. Consider your best three professional references.

Look through your contacts and see who can be a professional reference. It’s good to have a wide range of references in your pocket, from past jobs, classes or different departments, ready when needed.

After searching through your contacts, tailor your list of references to the job. Make sure that they can speak to your skills and how valuable you are. For example, an IT manager as a reference for an IT position or your business professor for a position in a sales company.

2. Create a separate reference page for your resume.

We’ve established that you shouldn’t list references on a resume. Instead, create a document with the same look and feel as your resume template and follow this resume references format:

Your contact information at the top of the page.
The reference’s name.
The reference’s position in the company.
The company’s name and address.
The reference’s phone number and email address.
A brief description of who the reference is.

The most valuable reference should be at the top of the list. Remember to keep their information strictly professional. Don’t include personal information, a phone number or email address they didn’t give you permission to use or their home address.

For a clearer picture, take a look at this resume reference page example:

3. Have your resume references template ready to send.

The best way to provide references is to prepare a separate reference page ahead of time and have it ready to send with your resume if required or to the hiring manager when asked. You will likely need to send it via email, so make sure to save it in a universal format like PDF. You can also save it as a Word document.

Remember, there’s no need to send your list of references with your resume unless the job description explicitly requests references with the application, nor should you include references on a resume.

Resume references examples

Use these resume references examples as inspiration to create your list of references. If you’d like to have one cohesive job application, feel free to explore resume templates and resume examples .

Resume references example 1

Carmen Sharp Creative Director POV Agency 3987 Cherry Camp Road Junction City, CA 96048 773-477-2686 909-227-4436 [email protected]

Carmen Sharp was my former supervisor. She can talk about my professional and artistic growth in the company. Under her supervision, I created a unique and creative campaign for one of the agency’s biggest clients.

Darlene R. Callahan Graphic Designer POV Agency 3987 Cherry Camp Road Junction City, CA 96048 909-142-0788 [email protected]

I worked with Darlene on multiple projects and commercial campaigns. She can talk about my work ethic, creative thinking, and time management skills.

Julian McFadden Art Director We Create, Inc. 8765 Thomas Road Junction City, CA 96048 773-903-6512 909-887-2235 [email protected]

Julian McFadden pushed me to become a better designer, and I learned new Photoshop skills with his guidance. He can vouch for my ability to learn quickly and not buckle under pressure.

Resume references example 2

Paul D. Grimes Director of Sales LMT Company 2877 Grey Road Williamsport, PA 17701 570-327-9954 570-279-0654 [email protected]

Paul Grimes witnessed my negotiation and marketing skills getting better with time. I helped him during meetings with clients and eventually started negotiating independently.

Ruby Moreno Regional Sales Manager LMT Company 2877 Grey Road Williamsport, PA 17701 570-223-0756 [email protected]

Ruby can testify to my great organizational skills and work ethic. With her guidance, I helped the team exceed sales goals in the north region.

Sean Brandt Professor, Patterson School of Business Pennsylvania State University 7898 Oak Avenue Williamsport, PA 17701 570-477-1580 [email protected]

During my MBA, Sean Brandt was my professor on various courses and thesis supervisor. He can testify to my hard work and ability to adapt and learn quickly.

How many references should you include?

A good number of professional references to include is three to five .

If you’re a job seeker with no experience or a couple of years under your belt, we recommend going for three people in your list of references.

If you’re a senior professional or a manager, however, your references list can be longer, with five to seven references that can vouch for your expertise.

How to choose the right references

You know how to create a list of references, so let’s now talk about who to list as references. There’s more to it than just selecting someone you know and worked with.

1. Focus on quality professional references.

Be selective of the references you choose to send to a potential employer like you’re selective when writing a resume .

Remember, these are people the recruiter or hiring manager will be asking directly about you, so don’t choose just anyone.

When considering references for a resume, they should:

Be familiar with your abilities and achievements.
Enthusiastically advocate for you.
Be able to think on their feet and answer questions without missing a beat.
Be trustworthy enough not to jeopardize your application.

Professional references shouldn’t:

Be people who didn’t work closely with you.
Be family members who can’t speak to your abilities.
Be someone who fired you.
Be made up – recruiters will notice if something doesn’t add up.

2. Choose references based on your career level.

Your list of references should be varied and include people in other positions and departments — don’t just include your manager or supervisor.

If you’re a manager, your professional references should be:

Someone in a position higher than yours.
Someone at your same career level.
A team member in a position below yours.

Each of them will talk about what it’s like having you as a manager. So, for example, you can select your supervisor, another manager and employees from the department you managed.

If you’re a mid-level candidate, your references list should include:

Someone in a higher position.
Someone at your career level.
Someone from another department.

For example, if you’re a copywriter , you can ask your creative director , the graphic designer you worked most with and an account manager you interacted with to be your references.

Recent graduates or candidates with little work experience can go for a professor or a teacher they have built a relationship with — ideally through a specific career-related project. If you volunteered with an organization, you could find a reference there.

3. Search for references outside your current job.

A professional reference may not always be someone from your current or latest job. It can be someone you previously worked with or even vendors you spoke with as part of your job responsibilities. Take into consideration what you’ll be doing at the job you’ve applied for and tailor your references accordingly .

4. Contact your resume references.

You should contact your references and ask for their permission before including them on the reference page for your resume. By having a conversation with them, either in person or by a phone call, they’ll be aware that a recruiter or hiring manager will eventually reach out to them and ask about you, so the chances of them not answering are lower.

When talking to the people you want in your list of references, it’s important to:

Inform them of the role and the company you’ve applied for.
Ask them if it’s okay to have them as a professional reference.
Have an honest conversation with them about your work experience.
Ask them to speak to a specific work accomplishment or special project that was important to you.
Get their preferred method of contact.

You could begin your conversation with your reference by saying something like: “I’ve applied for a copywriting position in an advertising agency, and I would like to include you in my list of professional references because we worked together closely for many years. Is that OK with you?”

If they’re willing to be your professional reference, discuss your skills and prepare them for a phone call with recruiters or hiring managers.

Key takeaways

Here’s a quick recap of everything we learned about professional references:

Should references be included on a resume? No, you shouldn’t include references on a resume.
The phrase “references available upon request” isn’t needed and it’s a thing of the past.
The only time you should submit a resume with references is if it’s requested in the job description.
Create a separate document with your list of references. Be sure to include their updated contact information and a description of who that reference is.
Tailor your references to the job and your career level. Choose them carefully.
Include three to five references on your list. If you’re a senior professional or a manager, it’s okay to add more references.
Reach out to your references and ask for their permission before including them on the reference page for your resume.
Use the examples on this page as a resume references template to determine what to write on your page and how to format it.

References on a resume FAQ

How should i format my resume.

When formatting your resume, it is recommended to use a clean and professional layout. Start with your contact information, followed by a summary or objective statement, work experience, education, skills and any additional relevant sections. Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and responsibilities in each job role.

How long should my resume be?

The ideal length for a resume is typically one to two pages. However, this can vary depending on your level of experience and the industry you are applying to. It is important to include relevant information that showcases your skills and qualifications while keeping the document concise and easy to read.

Should I include a cover letter with my resume?

Including a cover letter is generally recommended, as it allows you to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications and explain why you are interested in the position. A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.

How far back should I go with my work experience on my resume?

It is generally recommended to include the past 10-15 years of work experience on your resume. However, if you have relevant experience from earlier in your career, you can include it as well. Focus on highlighting the most recent and relevant positions that showcase your skills and achievements.

Should I include references on my resume?

It is not necessary to include references on your resume. Instead, you can create a separate document with a list of references and have it ready to provide when requested by the employer. Make sure to choose references who can speak positively about your work ethic, skills and qualifications.

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How to List References on a Resume (Examples + Templates)

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Kellie Hanna, CPRW

Career advice expert.

Kellie is a Certified Professional Resume Writer with 20+ years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She earned a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.

35+ Transferable Skills Examples To List on Resumes

By Kellie Hanna, CPRW

April 05, 2024

‡ Results derived from a study responded by 1000 participants of which 287 created a resume online.

*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with MyPerfectResume.

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When and how to include references on a resume · Resume.io
How To Write A Reference List For Resume
How to List References on a Resume [And If You Should]
40 Professional Reference Page / Sheet Templates
Resume Reference Page Setup Tips & Template
How To List Your Resume References [With Formatting Examples]

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How To List References on a Resume (With Examples)
How to write a resume reference list. As you begin putting together a list of references for employers to call on during the hiring process, consider the following steps to guide your document. 1. Determine how many references to include. The number of references you list depends on your career level. For example, if you're entering the job ...
How to List References on a Resume (Dos and Don'ts)
On your reference sheet, you should list each reference with the following information: Name. Current Job/Position. Company. Phone Number. Email Address. Reference Description: Write one sentence explaining how you know or have worked with this person, where, when, and for how long.
How to List References on a Resume (Examples + Template)
To expand upon Eva's advice, here are three straightforward tips for listing your references correctly: 1. Create a dedicated list of references separate from your resume. If you haven't done this yet, gather your references onto a page and label it " Professional References .". Having a dedicated references page that's separate from ...
How to List References on Your Resume (With Examples)
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 ...
How to List References on a Resume [w/ Examples]
Here's the right way to list professional references on a resume: 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.
When and How to List References on a Resume [+Examples]
Here's how to list references on a resume: 1. Put your name and "References" on top of a separate page. 2. Format all references the same way: list full names, job titles, companies, and contact info. 3. Add at least 3 professional references. 4.
How to List References on a Resume in 2024 [+Examples]
Choose three to five references. These should mainly be professional references and one personal reference. Choose your references carefully only ask people who will have positive things to say about your performance and personality. Ask permission from your references before sharing their contact information.
How to List References on a Resume in 2022 (with Examples & Tips)
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.
How to List References on a Resume in 2024 (with Templates)
After that, add a heading. " Professional References " is your best choice. Now's the time to list your 3-5 entries. Here's how to list each of your references on your resume reference sheet: What to Include on Your References List. Reference's First & Last Name. Their Professional Title. Name of Their Company.
How to Write a Resume Reference List With Examples
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.
How to List References on a Resume (Templates Included)
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.
How to List Resume References: A Job Seeker's Guide + Sample
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: Full name. Job title. Company name. Address. Contact information (phone number and email address) Description of relationship to the reference. Your references should also be listed from top to bottom ...
How to List References on a Resume [Full Guide with Examples]
Reference No. 3. [Reference Name] [Reference Current Occupation] [Reference Current Work Place] [Reference Contact Information] [Description of the Reference] etc. As you can see, there are no drastic changes in terms of style —we have the same font style and size throughout the entire section.
How to List References on a Resume (Examples and Tips)
Your reference. Next, add at least the full name and job title of your job references. Include the company name where you worked with them and the company address, the reference's phone number and email address. Ensure their contact information is up to date, as the recruiter or hiring manager will use it to contact them.
How to List References on a Resume and When to Do So
Preferred form of contact. If you're really tight for space, just add "References available upon request" at the bottom so employers know you have some prepared if needed. Include 2-3 references on a resume and 3-5 on a reference sheet. Never submit your reference sheet with your resume — save it for employers that ask.
How To List References On A Resume (With Examples)
An example of how to list references on a resume can help you decide what you need to do. Here, we have a few different scenarios for you to consider. How to format a resume references section. If you are adding a dedicated references section to the bottom of your resume, here's the resume format you should follow: [Name of individual]
How To List Your Resume References [With Formatting Examples]
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.
How to Write a Resume Reference List (With Examples)
Select your resume references. Decide how to send your reference list. Ask your contacts to be a reference. 1. Determine how many references to include. There is no set number of references that you should include on your resume reference list. You should at least add two references, though the standard is usually three.
Effectively Listing References on Resume [+ Examples & Templates
Reach out to the people who you want as references. Ask your contacts if they are willing to be listed as references on your resume and request their contact details, including email, phone number, and address. 4. Determine how you want to list the reference on your resume. Lastly, it is up to you if you want to make a section on your resume or ...
When and How to List References on a Resume (w/ Examples)
Step 2: Determine how to add the references. When you are adding references to a resume, there are typically two different ways that you can do it. You can add a separate section for the references at the end of the resume. Some people opt to create a separate document just for the references.
Crafting the Perfect Résumé Reference List: Tips and Tricks
Your résumé reference sheet should start with a header. In the header, include your full name, email address, and phone number. You don't need to include your address, but if you're applying for an in-person job, you may want to include the area where you're located. For each reference, you should list the following information:
References on a Resume: To List or Not to List?
No, you shouldn't include references on a resume. The phrase "references available upon request" isn't needed and it's a thing of the past. The only time you should submit a resume with references is if it's requested in the job description. Create a separate document with your list of references.
How To Write a Resume Reference List (2024 Examples)
For example, if you are applying for a sales role and you have listed a manager from a hospitality role, the employer may choose to contact a reference you have recorded from a previous sales job instead. 2. Choose references to include on your resume. When considering who to choose as a reference, think back to the people you have worked with ...

How to List References on Your Resume (With Examples)

Are you supposed to put references on a resume?

Why not include references on a resume?

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

Resume references example: how to write your references

Who should you ask to be a reference?

For the professional references

For the personal references

Maximize resume space to improve job search impact

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Who is a Good Reference For Your Resume?

3+ Good & Bad Resume Reference Sheet Examples

Key Takeaways

When and How to List References on a Resume [+Examples]

Do References Go on a Resume?

How to Put References on a Resume

Here’s how to list references on a resume:

Should resume references be on a separate page?

Should I put “references available upon request” on my resume?

Hold Your Endorses

How to Choose Professional Resume References & How to Request Them

How many references should you have on a resume?

Who is a good reference for a resume?

How to ask someone to be your reference?

Personal vs professional references

Following up

How to Format the Resume References Page

Key Takeaway

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How to choose personal resume references

Choose carefully.

Ask before you share.

Send an email.

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Confirm their contact information.

Follow up with a thank you.

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