Including references on a resume often causes confusion for job seekers unsure about the proper format and placement. Employers value clear and professional presentation of references, which can strengthen a candidate’s application. This post explains how to list references effectively, what information to include, and when to provide them. First, it covers the basics of formatting references, then discusses selecting the right contacts, and finally offers tips on maintaining professionalism throughout the process.
Key Takeaways from How To Put References On A Resume
Understanding When to Include References
– References are typically not required directly on a resume unless specifically requested by the employer.
– It’s often better to prepare a separate reference sheet to provide upon request.
– Including References available upon request is generally unnecessary and can be omitted.
How to Format References
– Use a clean, professional layout similar to your resume style.
– Include the reference’s full name, job title, company, phone number, and email address.
– Make sure contact information is current and accurate.
Choosing the Right References
1. Select professional contacts such as former supervisors, colleagues, or mentors.
2. Avoid personal or family references unless specifically relevant.
3. Ask permission from your references before listing them.
4. Choose references who can speak positively about your skills and work ethic.
Additional Tips
– Keep your reference list concise, typically 3 to 5 people.
– Prepare your references by informing them about the job and your relevant skills.
– Update your reference list regularly to maintain accuracy.
Example Reference Table
| Name | Title | Company | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jane Doe | Marketing Manager | ABC Corp | (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] |
| John Smith | Senior Developer | XYZ Ltd | (987) 654-3210 | [email protected] |
When to Include References on a Resume
Including references on a resume depends largely on the job application instructions and the industry norms. Generally, references are not placed directly on the resume document unless specifically requested. Instead, provide them separately to keep the resume concise and focused.
Situations to Add References
1. The employer explicitly asks for references with the initial application.
2. The job posting states “references required” or “include references.”
3. You want to demonstrate confidence and transparency early in the hiring process.
4. You’re applying for positions in fields where references are standard upfront, such as academia or certain government roles.
When to Avoid Listing References
– If the job announcement does not mention references.
– When the resume is already filling one or two pages.
– If you want to protect the privacy of your contacts until the employer requests them.
– To prevent potential bias or premature judgments.
How to List References on a Separate Document
If you decide to provide references, create a dedicated document separate from your resume. This keeps your application neat and professional.
Reference Page Format
“`plaintext
Your Name
Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address
Date
References
1. Name: John Smith
Title: Marketing Manager
Company: ABC Corporation
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: [email protected]
Relationship: Former Supervisor
2. Name: Jane Doe
Title: Senior Engineer
Company: XYZ Technologies
Phone: (987) 654-3210
Email: [email protected]
Relationship: Project Lead
3. Name: Michael Brown
Title: Professor of Economics
University: State University
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: [email protected]
Relationship: Academic Advisor
“`
Tips for Reference Page Design
– Use the same font and formatting style as your resume.
– List 3 to 5 references, depending on the application requirements.
– Include full names, current titles, company or institution names, phone numbers, email addresses, and your relationship.
– Avoid including personal details like home addresses unless requested.
– Double-check contact information for accuracy.
How to Mention References on a Resume Without Listing Them
Sometimes, the best approach is to notify employers that references are available upon request without including them on the resume itself.
Where to Add This Statement
– End of the resume, after the education or experience sections.
– In a small, unobtrusive font.
Example Phrases
“`plaintext
References available upon request.
Professional references available upon request.
References furnished upon request.
“`
This lets hiring managers know you have credible contacts ready while saving valuable space.
Choosing the Right References
Selecting appropriate referees influences how your candidacy is perceived. Choose people who can vouch for your skills, work ethic, and character.
Who to Pick
– Former supervisors or managers.
– Colleagues or team members with whom you collaborated closely.
– Professors or academic advisors relevant to the field.
– Clients or vendors, if applicable.
– Volunteer coordinators or mentors.
Who to Avoid
– Family members or friends.
– Current supervisors, unless you have permission.
– Anyone who cannot provide professional insights.
– References who may give lukewarm or negative feedback.
How to Prepare References
Before listing someone as a reference, always seek their permission and brief them about the role and your goals.
Checklist for Preparing References
1. Contact each person and request permission.
2. Provide a copy of your resume and the job description.
3. Highlight skills or experiences you want them to emphasize.
4. Verify their preferred contact details.
5. Inform them about the potential timing of reference checks.
Incorporating References into Online Applications and LinkedIn
Online Job Portals
– Many application systems ask for reference contacts in separate fields.
– Follow instructions carefully and avoid copy-pasting resumes with embedded references.
– Use the same contact details as on your reference document.
LinkedIn Recommendations
– LinkedIn offers a platform to showcase endorsements and written recommendations.
– Request recommendations from past supervisors or colleagues.
– These act as informal references and strengthen your profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Listing References
| Mistake | Why It’s Problematic | How to Fix It |
|————————————|————————————————-|——————————————–|
| Including references on the resume | Makes the resume unnecessarily long and cluttered | Use a separate reference sheet or mention availability |
| Using outdated contact information | Employers cannot reach references | Verify and update all phone numbers and emails |
| Listing inappropriate references | Reflects poorly on professionalism | Choose relevant and credible contacts |
| Not informing referees | Leads to unprepared or negative feedback | Always notify and brief your references |
| Providing too many or too few | Too many can overwhelm; too few may seem unprepared | Aim for 3-5 well-chosen references |
Summary Checklist for Reference Inclusion
1. Confirm whether the job application requires references upfront.
2. Prepare a separate reference document matching your resume style.
3. Select relevant and professional contacts.
4. Obtain permission and brief your references.
5. Provide accurate and current contact information.
6. Use a simple phrase on your resume if references aren’t included.
7. Avoid listing references directly on resume unless requested.
8. Keep the reference page concise and easy to read.
Final Thoughts
Including references on a resume or application requires tact and timing. Prioritize clarity, professionalism, and respect for your contacts’ privacy. By preparing references thoughtfully and presenting them properly, you boost your credibility and smooth the path to your next opportunity.
How to List References on a Resume
Example 1: Simple Reference Listing at the End of the Resume
Include a dedicated section at the end of your resume titled “References” or “References Available Upon Request.” This is a straightforward way to inform employers that you can provide references if needed.
References
John Smith
Senior Manager, ABC Company
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: [email protected]
Jane Doe
Project Lead, XYZ Inc.
Phone: (987) 654-3210
Email: [email protected]
Make sure to:
1. List full names, job titles, company names, phone numbers, and email addresses.
2. Confirm with your references before listing their contact information.
3. Keep this section concise and professional.
Example 2: Including References on a Separate Document
If you prefer not to crowd your resume, prepare a separate reference sheet. This sheet should have the same header as your resume for consistency.
References for [Your Full Name]
1. Michael Johnson
Title: Director of Marketing
Company: Creative Solutions Ltd.
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: [email protected]
2. Lisa Brown
Title: Senior Engineer
Company: Tech Innovations
Phone: (555) 987-6543
Email: [email protected]
Tips:
– Provide this document only when requested.
– Use the same font and header as your resume for a professional look.
Example 3: Adding a Reference Statement Instead of Listing Contacts
If you want to keep your resume minimal, you can add a short statement instead of listing contacts directly.
References available upon request.
This approach:
– Saves space on your resume.
– Allows you to tailor your references based on the job application.
– Keeps your references’ contact information private until needed.
Remember to always notify your references in advance so they are prepared to speak on your behalf.