The Modern Guide to Resume References

The Big Question: Should You Put References on Your Resume?

Let’s get straight to it: No, you should not list your references directly on your resume.

This practice is outdated for a few important reasons:

• It Wastes Valuable Space: Your resume is prime real estate. Every line should be dedicated to selling your skills and accomplishments, not listing someone else's contact information.
• It's a Privacy Risk: Your references haven't given you permission to broadcast their name, phone number, and email to every single company you apply to. Protecting their privacy is a sign of respect.
• It's Presumptuous: Recruiters and hiring managers don't need your references during the initial screening. They'll ask for them when they're seriously considering you for the role. Providing them upfront is like jumping several steps ahead in the process.

What about "References available upon request"?

This phrase is also a waste of space. It’s a given. Employers know you will provide references if they ask. Use that extra line on your resume to add another powerful bullet point about your achievements.

When Is the Right Time to Share Your References?

So, if they don’t go on your resume, when do you provide them?

Typically, a potential employer will request your references after a successful interview or when they are preparing to make a formal job offer. This is the final step in their due diligence process to confirm that you are who you say you are.

The best practice is to have a separate, neatly formatted document ready to go. When they ask, you can email it over immediately, showing you’re organized and on top of your game.

Choosing Your All-Star Reference Team

Not all references are created equal. You need to choose people who can speak enthusiastically and specifically about your professional abilities.

Who Makes a Great Professional Reference?

Your goal is to select people who have seen your work ethic, skills, and character in a professional setting. Think about:

• Former Managers or Supervisors: They can speak directly to your performance, responsibilities, and growth.
• Team Leads or Senior Colleagues: Someone you worked closely with on projects can provide a fantastic, on-the-ground perspective.
• Clients or Customers: If you were in a client-facing role, a happy client can provide a powerful testimonial.

Aim for a list of three to five strong professional references.

Who Should You Avoid Asking?

To maintain professionalism, steer clear of:

• Family and Friends: They're biased and can't speak objectively about your work performance.
• Anyone You Didn't Get Along With: This seems obvious, but don't risk a lukewarm (or negative) review.
• Someone Who Doesn't Know You Well: A reference who can only say, "Yeah, they worked here," is not helpful.

The Art of Asking: How to Request a Reference (The Right Way)

Never list someone as a reference without asking for their permission first. It's not just polite; it ensures they're prepared to give you a glowing review.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step way to ask:

1. Reach Out in Advance: Contact your potential reference as soon as you start your job search. A polite email or a quick phone call works best.
2. Make a Polite and Direct Request: Don't beat around the bush. State that you're applying for new roles and ask if they would be comfortable serving as a professional reference for you.
3. Give Them an "Out": Add a phrase like, "Please don't feel obligated if you're too busy or don't feel comfortable." This takes the pressure off and is a respectful gesture.
4. Provide Them with Ammunition: This is the most important step! To help them give you the best possible reference, send them:

• Your updated resume.
• The job description for the role you're targeting.
• A quick reminder of a key project you worked on together or a specific accomplishment you're proud of.

Formatting Your Reference List Like a Pro

Your reference list should be a separate document that matches the look and feel of your resume. Keep it clean, simple, and professional.

Think of your reference sheet as the perfect companion to your resume. And just as a polished resume is crucial—something a great resume builder can help you nail—your reference list needs to look just as sharp.

For each reference, include the following:

• Full Name
• Job Title
• Company
• Professional Relationship (e.g., "Former Manager," "Team Lead on the X Project")
• Email Address
• Phone Number

Example Reference Entry:

Jane Doe

Senior Marketing Manager

Acme Corporation

Former Direct Supervisor

jane.doe@email.com

(555) 123-4567

By treating your references with respect and presenting them professionally, you add one more layer of polish to your job application.

It shows you’re a thoughtful, organized candidate—exactly the kind of person every company wants to hire. Good luck