How to List References on a Resume
Table Of Contents
Introduction
Should You Include References on a Resume?
What to Do Instead
Formatting a References Page
Choosing the Right References
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Conclusion
Should You Include References on a Resume?
What to Do Instead
Formatting a References Page
Choosing the Right References
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Conclusion
When you prepare a resume, including work experience, education, and skills, is a given. You wouldn’t submit a resume without them! The decision of whether to include certain other information, however, is not as straightforward. Case in point: references.
When and how to include references in a resume is a common question we get from clients. In this article, we will explore best practices for managing resume references, including whether to include them directly and how to format a references page that effectively showcases your professional qualifications.
In a hurry? To skip to the “References for Resume FAQ” section, click here.
Should You Include References on a Resume?
You may be surprised to hear that the general consensus among career experts is that it’s best to leave references off your resume. Here’s why:
First, resumes are typically limited to one or two pages, and every word counts. Including references within the resume takes up valuable space that is better used to highlight your skills, experience, and achievements. Employers are more interested in seeing how your qualifications and work history align with their job requirements than reading through a list of contacts.
First, resumes are typically limited to one or two pages, and every word counts. Including references within the resume takes up valuable space that is better used to highlight your skills, experience, and achievements. Employers are more interested in seeing how your qualifications and work history align with their job requirements than reading through a list of contacts.
Additionally, references typically come into play during the later stages of the hiring process, often after interviews have taken place. That is when employers will want to verify the information you provided and get a more detailed perspective on your work ethic and professional conduct. Therefore, knowing how to put references on a resume itself is usually not necessary.
Even the phrase “References available upon request,” which was once common, is now perceived as outdated and redundant. Employers don’t need to be told that they can ask for references if they need them.
In summary, unless the job description explicitly states that references should be included on the resume, it’s best to keep your resume focused on showcasing your skills, experiences, and achievements.
What to Do Instead
Since adding references directly to your resume is usually not ideal, let’s look at some steps you can take to ensure you're prepared when employers do ask for them. Below are some best practices to follow.
First, before you consider using someone as a reference, be sure to reach out and confirm that they’re comfortable speaking to a potential employer on your behalf. Even if they’ve previously expressed that they are willing to act as a reference, it’s polite to give them a heads-up. It can also be helpful to send them your career documents and a description of the job you’re applying for. This will help them understand your career goals so they can provide relevant and supportive feedback.
Next, prepare a separate document for your references. It should include their names, job titles, companies, phone numbers, and email addresses. Make sure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
If you are just beginning your career, you may need to use personal references who can speak to your skills and work ethic. However, if possible, it’s ideal to have at least three professional references. These might include a current or former manager, a colleague, or even a client if you work in a client-facing role. We’ll go into more detail about choosing the right references in another section.
Keep your reference list updated and easily accessible so that you can quickly provide it when requested.
Formatting a References Page
When formatting a references page, it is essential to maintain a professional and organized layout. Here are some guidelines that will help you ensure your reference page is well-structured and easy to read.
Header and Title
At the top of your references page, list your name, address, and phone number, aligned in the same way they appear on your resume and cover letter. Below this, use a clear and bold title, such as "Professional References" or simply "References.”
(In the rare case that you are required to list references within your resume itself, you will not need a separate header.)
Layout and Spacing
For consistency, use the same line spacing, margins, and font as on your resume (preferably a standard font such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman). Give each reference its own paragraph, with two spaces between them. This makes the page easy to read and scan.
Organizing References
Keep your reference list clear and organized. Below is a suggested format for each entry.
- Name
- Job title and position
- Company name
- Company address (if specifically required)
- Phone number
- Email address
- A brief description or context of your relationship with the reference (optional, but highly recommended)
Example of a Reference Entry
Here is an example of how a reference entry might look:
Jane Doe
Manager, Marketing Department
ABC Corporation
Anytown, USA 12345
123-456-7890 | johndoe@abccorporation.com
Former Supervisor
Consistency and Accuracy
Ensure that all entries have consistent formatting and that all information is up to date. Double-check contact details and job titles regularly to ensure accuracy.
Choosing the Right References
By the time a potential employer asks for references, they are likely close to making a decision and want to verify that the information you’ve given them aligns with what previous employers say about you. Here are some guidelines to help you choose references who can effectively vouch for your skills, work ethic, and professional abilities.
Supervisors and Managers
Current or former supervisors and managers are highly credible references because they have firsthand knowledge of your job performance. They can provide detailed examples of your skills and accomplishments as well as your job competencies, impact on the organization, and professional growth.
Peers and Colleagues
Peers and colleagues can offer potential employers a different perspective on your work style and strengths. They can share what it is like to work with you, how well you collaborate within a team, and what your overall strengths are. Including someone you’ve worked with as well as people you’ve worked for can provide a well-rounded view of your professional abilities.
Recipients of Your Work
If your experience includes working on projects or providing services to clients (or even internal teams), including someone who was a recipient of your work can be another way to demonstrate your skills. They can provide first-hand feedback on how you managed a specific project and speak to the quality of your work.
Personal References
If you are a recent graduate or otherwise new to the workforce, you can provide personal rather than professional references. If you’ve been involved in academic or athletic activities, community organizations, or volunteer work, the mentors, advisors, or others who have observed your efforts can serve as valuable references. They can provide information about your skills, knowledge, and work habits in contexts outside professional employment.
Criteria for Selection
When deciding who to use as references, consider the following criteria:
- They need to know you well enough to provide specific examples of your skills and accomplishments.
- They should be relevant to the job you are applying for, meaning they can speak to the skills and experiences that are required by the job.
- They should have known you for a minimum of three months, preferably longer.
- Avoid using family or friends unless they have interacted with you in a professional capacity, such as a family business or as part of volunteer work.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are some common mistakes that can result in your references having the opposite impact on your job application than they’re intended to. Below are some errors to watch out for.
Not Getting Permission
It’s worth repeating—one of the most fundamental mistakes is not asking for permission before listing someone as a reference. A reference who is caught off guard by a call from a potential employer may struggle to respond to their questions, which can reflect poorly on you. Always obtain explicit permission, ideally each time you intend to provide their name to an employer.
Not Preparing Your References
Informing your references that they might be contacted is critical, but if you want them to be able to present you positively, you need to prepare them. Explain the role you are applying for, its duties, and how you presented yourself in the interview. This ensures they are on the same page and can provide a strong, supportive recommendation.
Choosing Irrelevant or Inadequate References
Using references who are not relevant to the role you are applying for or who do not know you well can be detrimental. Make sure your references are recent and can attest to your skills and cultural fit for the organization you’re applying to. Avoid using personal references who can’t provide specific examples of the professional skills required for your target job.
Using Fake References
Using fake references is a serious mistake that could result in your application being rejected outright. Hiring managers are experienced in making reference calls and can usually tell when a reference is not genuine. This can seriously damage your professional reputation and trustworthiness.
Assuming a Glowing Review
Do not assume that a reference will provide a positive review. Even if they’ve agreed to be a reference, they might remember their experience working with you differently than you do, or, if you haven’t been in touch with them for a while, their memory of specific information might be vague. Always confirm that your reference is willing and able to speak positively about you.
Not “Googling” Your References
Before listing someone as a reference, it’s a good idea to do a quick online search to ensure there are no negative or unprofessional online presences associated with them. Having someone vouch for your professional worthiness if their own reputation appears questionable will not make you seem appealing to a potential employer.
Not Providing Necessary Information
Don’t leave your references guessing what they are expected to say about you. Make it easy for them by giving them all the necessary details, such as your current resume and the job description, to discuss your qualifications and experiences effectively.
Conclusion
Although including them within your resume is not recommended, managing and listing references is a vital part of the job application process. It's important to have them prepared and ready to send when they are requested. Choose—and get permission from—individuals who know your work well and can highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Present them on a separate, professionally formatted document that follows the look of your resume and cover letter.
Prepare your references by sharing your resume, cover letter, and the job description so they can provide a strong and relevant recommendation. Additionally, remember to thank your references for their support promptly.
Following these best practices, you will be able to create a polished and impactful set of references that enhance your job application and boost your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it still necessary to write "References available upon request" on my resume?
Employers generally assume you can provide references, so this line is no longer necessary. Keep a separate reference sheet ready in case of a request, which will usually come later in the process.
How many references should I have prepared on my separate list?
It’s best to include 3–5 references covering different perspectives (e.g., manager, peer, partner, client). It’s generally best to have one reference who can speak to recent performance and then 1–2 who can confirm specific strengths needed for the target role.
Do I need to ask for permission every single time I provide a reference's name to a potential employer?
Yes, it’s best to get explicit permission each time and to briefly provide some context.
- You can share the job description, describe your recent accomplishments, and 2–3 strengths the employer needs that you’d like the reference to confirm.
- If possible, let them know when to expect a call or other contact.
What should I do if an online application form requires me to list references upfront?
Include accurate, but minimal info in early stages.
- If required: list names/titles and add a note like “contact upon final stage” if comments are allowed.
- If you can’t include comments, submit the form, but inform your references immediately.
- Use professional emails over personal ones where possible to avoid surprising anyone.
Can I use my current manager as a reference if my job search is confidential?
Avoid using a current manager if your search is confidential and instead opt for former managers, senior peers, clients, or vendors.
If you’re at the offer stage and a current manager reference is necessary, ask the new employer to wait until you have a signed offer and agree on timing to make contact. Meanwhile, offer alternative references(e.g., skip‑level, former manager, project lead).
About the Authors
Katherine Metres Akbar is the founder and president of YES Career Coaching & Resume Writing Services, one of Washington metro’s two top-rated career success companies. She and her team have helped over 5,000 people and organizations perfect their resumes, master networking, get interviews, receive offers for dream jobs, resettle employees through outplacement, and optimize their teams. Katherine is the world’s only Interview AikidoTM coach, a Certified Talent Optimization Consultant, Certified Professional Career Coach, and a Certified Professional Interview Coach. An award-winning writer, she previously served as a U.S. diplomat and executive director of a civil rights non-profit. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor and a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University.
Michael Akbar is the co-owner and vice president of YES Career Coaching & Resume Writing Services. He is a Certified Professional Career Coach, Certified Federal Career Coach, Certified Business Advisor, and Certified Talent Optimization Consultant helping leaders build their dream teams. Michael leverages his business development background to help coachees get their dream job, often on the hidden job market. Michael has spent 15 years as an entrepreneur coaching business owners to break through their barriers to success. After talking his way into two jobs in order to get a work visa, Michael was inspired to create Interview AikidoTM to help people get jobs, even when they are underqualified. He holds a Bachelor of Science from McGill University and a Master of Science from the City University of London.
The home team is completed by Farah Akbar, a joyful, stubborn, and—some say—adorable terrier/pitbull mix the Akbars adopted from the shelter after a traumatic early life.
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