reference sheet on resume

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.

Suggested readings:

• How to Write a Resume & Land That Job? [21+ Examples]
• What to Put On a Resume [7+ Job-Winning Sections]
• CV vs. Resume - What are the Differences & Definitions [+ Examples]

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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

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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:

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:

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?

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

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).

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).

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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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 .

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

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. 

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. 

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.

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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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Reference Sheets

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This section details how to develop and format a reference sheet.

The purpose of a reference sheet is to have a list of people who can verify and elaborate on your professional experience for a potential employer. Past employers, professors, and advisors are the best professional references to have. It is important to have a reference sheet because potential employers will often ask for a list of references they can contact. If you included a statement such as "References Available Upon Request" on your résumé, you should be able to produce a reference sheet as soon as one is requested. In any case, having a reference sheet will save you time later on during the interview process.

Things to remember

Make sure to include people who know what type of person you are and who are familiar with your work. It is important to select individuals who know your distinctiveness so that they can provide a positive and accurate description of you to the employer or company in which you are seeking employment. You should ALWAYS contact your references before including them on a reference sheet. It is also a good idea to give them a copy of your résumé and talk to them about the job you are seeking so they will know how to best represent you.

What to include

• Your present and permanent address(es)
• Department/Company
• Title/Position
• Telephone number
• Brief statement as to how you know this person.

Sample reference sheet

CARRIE E. COMPLETE

PRESENT ADDRESS 123 Hawkins Graduate House West Lafayette, IN 47906 (317) 555-1123

PERMANENT ADDRESS 12334 N. College Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46220 (317) 555-1829

1. Professor John English Sociology Department Purdue University Stone Hall West Lafayette, IN 47907 (317) 555-6000

Professor English is my academic advisor and is presently supervising my research in an independent study sociology course.

2. Mrs. Diana Handie Food Services Supervisor Hawkins Graduate House Purdue University West Lafayette, IN 47907 (317) 555-2323

Mrs. Handie was my supervisor when I worked in the Hawkins Cafeteria.

3. Mrs. Jennifer Active Activity Therapy Staff Wabash Valley Mental Health Center 2900 North River Road West Lafayette, IN 47906 (317) 564-9600

Mrs. Active is my current employer.

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How to List References on a Resume [And If You Should]

Should you include references on your resume? Learn whether you should include professional references on your resume and how to list references when needed.

A professional reference is a potential employer’s inside look at what you are like to work with.

Sometimes, a glowing reference from the right person can be exactly what lands you your dream job.

Are you writing “References Are Available on Request” on your resume? Maybe you have your mom as your first choice for references.

Neither of these is advised.

This article will give you guidance as to exactly how to present your professional references to a potential employer.

From who to ask to provide references, to how to approach that issue, and much more, we will show you how to best handle the matter of references on resumes.

Should You Include References on a Resume?

Most of the time, you’ll find that the answer is actually a straight, “No!”

If there are 250 applicants for a job, can you imagine a hiring manager calling 750 to 1250 references?

Not really. References are usually requested far down the line when the number of candidates has been whittled down.

What about saying “References Available Upon Request” on my resume? Is that a good compromise?

That’s like saying, “Applicant has a pulse.” It’s obvious.

Your resume is short and sweet. Do not waste space with an out-dated sentence like that.

And if you don’t have references available, then that is a mistake as well.

Consider also that if you are applying online, you do not want to include a list of references for another reason.

The reason is that you will be giving the contact details of your references to whoever sees your resume.

That is not ideal. Your references may not agree to be referenced for you again.

A general rule is just that, general. Specific instances will be different.

Do not just assume that your resume will never need a reference page.

Perhaps references on your resume will be explicitly requested, in which case, include a professional reference page.

If references on your resume are requested and you do not include them, then that isn’t going to end well for you. You have shown that you cannot follow directions and now the recruiter may need to contact you for the missing information, if they take the time to do so.

If you can’t decide whether or not to include references, don’t. Wait for them to be specifically requested.

How to List Professional References on a Resume

If you have determined that you do need to include references on your resume, we will explain how to do this correctly.

Regardless of how many references that you have listed, always put your best reference at the top.

That may be your highest ranking reference, it may be your reference that already works where you are applying to, it may be the reference who can best state your skills.

In every case, you want to be prudent about who you list. You will receive advice on exactly how to approach this later on.

This is how you should list professional references on a resume:

• Reference’s first and last name
• Reference’s current job title
• Company reference currently works for
• (Optional) Company’s address
• Reference’s email address
• Reference’s phone number
• (Optional) Background information on your relationship with your reference

With that order, your reference will look something like this:

You may wish to give some background on the nature of the relationship with your reference.

It is not essential to include details, provided that you state their role in your list, but sometimes your relationship helps give context as to why they are a reference.

How Many References Should You Include?

How many references you have really depends on your prior experience and the job that you are applying for.

If you have just graduated, and have limited experience, it is perfectly acceptable to have 3 or 4 references.

However, if you have worked for a long time and are applying for an executive role, you should have at least 5, even up to 7 references.

However, read the job posting carefully.

If your potential employer says that they want 4, then provide them with 4.

You do not want to make it look like you are already not following their instructions.

If you provide 7 references, remember that your potential employer may only contact a few people. Ensure that your references are solid as stand-alone references, rather than as a group as you do not know who will be contacted.

Resume References Example

Even if your resume does not end at the bottom of the page, you should still be sure to start your reference list on a separate page.

Carry over your contact information section from your resume and use the same formatting.

After that, begin with your references.

As stated above, list your references with your best one at the top. Oftentimes, that will be the most relevant reference at the top.

A reference list with three references may look like this. Click the image to download the template.

As stated before, having three references is not a mandatory amount at all. Submit as many as were requested.

If there isn’t a specific number requested, add according to experience and what you are applying for.

(Read How To Make a Resume That Gets Past the Robots for more information on writing the other sections of your resume.)

Resume References Format (to Submit After Your Resume)

A reference list on your resume will be included in the same document.

A reference sheet is a separate document that you can submit when references are requested during the hiring process and is not attached directly to your resume.

Much like with the reference page on your resume, emphasis will be in the very same places. The document is essentially the same.

While either of these formats can be used to list your references, here is an example of a reference sheet that is more simplified than the sample above. Click the image to download the template.

Ensure that the font, font size, margins, and color scheme match those on your resume and cover letter.

This will ensure that the document looks similar to what you have already submitted.

How to Ask for a Reference

There are many ways that you can ask for a professional reference.

If you are on the phone with a potential reference, ask them then.

If you are talking with them in person, it will be a good idea to ask them then.

You definitely want to ask your references for permission before giving out their personal information.

You do not want them to be surprised by an unexpected call regarding your application.

You also want them to have time to prepare. With adequate preparation time, you will get a better reference by virtue of the fact that they could plan ahead.

That person might not actually want to provide a reference.

If they do not want to be a reference for you, then being surprised by a call is even less likely to yield positive results for you.

Asking for permission also helps ensure that you provide the correct contact details of your references.

Who Are Good References on a Resume?

Selection is vital.

Perhaps you have worked in a number of jobs and have access to reference options from countless colleagues. In addition, you may have a significant number of former subordinates, supervisors, and bosses.

Your go-to should not just be to pick out the most prestigious ones. Relevance matters.

A mix is great, as it allows for a fuller character picture based on how you are perceived by both your superiors and your subordinates.

Below is a list of potential references:

• Former or current supervisor
• Former or current colleague
• Former of current subordinate
• Former or current professor/teacher
• Business partner

If your job search is discreet, it goes without saying that your current coworkers will not be a good option for you.

Remember to be specific when talking to your references.

Do you recall that time that you collaborated on a project with your reference and you saw a 10% rise in net profit in that area? Remind them. Then when called, they can say:

Yes. I worked with Mr. Smith for 7 years at ABC Company. We achieved a lot together, but a highlight was when we collaborated on a project which led to a 10% rise in net profit. It was a shame that he had to leave us, but I would absolutely give my recommendation.

That is a lot better than them receiving a call out of the blue and saying:

Yes. I worked with Mr Smith for some time. He was a good worker who I liked working with. Yeah, I’d recommend him.

Being on the same page as who is giving your reference will help you a lot.

Additionally, advice about confidential applications is different.

If you don’t want your current employer to know, be smart.

You want to avoid asking anyone currently working for, or in contact with, your employer.

No matter who you ask, and if they promise to keep it confidential, they still can reveal your secret, even by accident.

Eliminate that risk by asking people who aren’t connected to your current job.

If you struggle to think of a specific achievement that your reference can highlight, remember to check key achievements in that shared job on your resume.

Who Are Bad References on a Resume?

Apart from colleagues and your current boss (if you are applying elsewhere discretely), there is a general rule that will you do well to remember.

When considering who should be a reference on your resume, remember that it is almost always a drawback to have personal rather than professional references.

A colleague that you worked with for years is a far better option than an aunt of yours that thinks your lemon drizzle cake is worth dying for.

It is great to make these personal connections and memories, but a potential employer will doubt a good reference from a relative as they are unlikely to mention any drawbacks, no matter how messy your bedroom is.

Friends are generally a no-no as well. However, if they currently work where you are applying, that may be more acceptable.

Also, remember anyone that you have clashed with is not someone you should list as a reference.

Even if things are better between the two of you now, you never know for sure that they are not going to mention it.

They might say something like this:

In our time working together, Ms. Smith was a diligent worker who endeavored to do her job to the best of her ability. However, she was occasionally prone to butting heads with colleagues if she disagreed about something. That may not be an issue now, but it was in my experience.

Being on better terms as you leave is great, but your history with that colleague remains.

In times like these, it is certainly best to err on the side of caution.

If there are two colleagues of note in the same job, but you only butted heads with one of them, then it should be obvious as to who to go with.

Stay on the safe side.

Shortlist the Perfect References

As stated before, you need to select the best references.

Depending on what role you are applying for, you can often select what references are better than others.

What references can highlight your skills that are the most relevant to this job?

What references currently work in that field, or a similar field?

Always aim to have these targeted references.

If you are a graduate in your early 20s, getting a reference from a professor is great. However, in your 40s, it is not nearly as ideal. They can only vouch for your aptitude a long time ago.

Be as up to date as you can, especially for key references.

Always have individuals lined up for references if you are beginning a job search. That way, you don’t have to pull a list together on very short notice.

Sample Email to Request a Reference

You may have to ask for a reference via email rather than on the phone or in person.

You have the opportunity here to choose your words carefully. Make the most of this by keeping the email from being vague.

Below is a sample of how an email to a reference might look:

Hi [Reference Name],

I hope you are well and having a great week!

We had talked previously about you providing a reference for me. I have since applied for [Job] at [Company]. I believe that I will likely be considered, in which case, references would be required. If you do not wish to provide a reference after all, that is absolutely fine.

However, the work that we did together remains one of the fondest professional memories that I have. I especially recall when we worked on [project] and saw [results]. I would be very grateful if you were willing to talk a little about this.

Best Wishes,

[Your Name]

See what that accomplishes?

It doesn’t only ask for a reference.

The email says where you have applied, and it provides some ammunition for the reference to use.

The reference is up to speed on your application because of your email. This is definitely better than expecting them to figure it out for themselves.

Even if they are not up for it, the worst that can happen is that they say no.

Once you have sent a number of these emails out, you should have a large enough list of references. Send individual messages though. Do not copy and paste the same message for everyone.

Remember to Follow Up

Make sure that whoever is giving your reference is fully up to speed with where you are in the process.

Tell them what jobs you have applied to, let them see your resume. Tell them that they are listed as a reference, even remind them of key things to think about highlighting.

If they agree and then give a reference for you, thank them.

That may be taking them for a coffee, or sending them a nice email.

If they help you land the job, do the same again. Giving a special thanks to individuals is a good thing to do, and it helps if you need another reference another time!

Always be willing to return the favor if a reference asks.

Key Takeaways

To summarize then, we can consider these as key takeaways:

• Ensure that you select references wisely, and have them fully up to speed on your job search. Ensure that you ask permission before using a reference.
• Do not include references on your resume unless specifically instructed to do so.
• The number of references you give can correlate with your experience and where you are applying to. A graduate can get away with 3, an executive applicant may need as many as 7.
• Format your reference sheet in the same way as you format your resume.

Not getting asked for your references?

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Including References on Your Resume: Formatting Examples

As much as we would like to land our dream job based solely on our skills, experience, and qualifications, references still play a significant role in the hiring process. Including references on your resume can provide potential employers with valuable insight and reinforce the skills and achievements you’ve highlighted in your application.

Quality references can speak to your work ethic, interpersonal skills, and overall fit for the role you’re applying for. They can also give employers peace of mind that you’re a reliable and trustworthy candidate. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that the references on your resume reflect positively on you and align with the job you’re pursuing.

With the right formatting and placement of references, you can enhance the overall impact of your resume and improve your chances of securing the job you’ve been dreaming of. So sit back, take some notes, and let’s dive into the world of including references on your resume.

Who Should You Ask for a Reference?

When it comes to including references on your resume, choosing the right individuals to provide these references is crucial. The three main types of references you might want to consider are professional, personal, and academic.

A. Professional References

Professional references are often the most important type of reference to include on your resume, especially if you are applying for a job in a specific industry or field. These references should be individuals whom you have worked with or for in a professional capacity, such as former managers, supervisors, or colleagues who can speak to your work ethic, job-related skills, and achievements.

When choosing professional references, it’s important to consider the relevance of their experience and expertise to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in marketing, a former supervisor who can speak to your digital marketing skills and experience would be a valuable reference.

B. Personal References

While personal references may not carry as much weight as professional references, they can still be valuable additions to your resume. Personal references can include individuals who know you well outside of a professional setting, such as mentors, coaches, or community leaders who can speak to your character and personal qualities.

When choosing personal references, it’s important to choose individuals who can speak to your strengths as they relate to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in customer service, a personal reference who has interacted with you in that capacity could be a valuable addition to your resume.

C. Academic References

For recent graduates or individuals who have limited professional experience, academic references can be a great addition to your resume. These references should be individuals who have served as your instructors or academic advisors and can speak to your academic achievements, work ethic, and potential.

When choosing academic references, it’s important to choose individuals who are familiar with your academic achievements in the field related to the position you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a job in engineering, a reference from a professor who taught you in an engineering course would be more valuable than a reference from a professor in a different field.

Choosing the right individuals to provide references on your resume is an important part of the job search process. By including professional, personal, and academic references who can speak to your skills, abilities, and character, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

When Should You Include References on Your Resume?

When it comes to resumes, the question of including references always arises. Is it necessary to include them? Should they be included before or after a job interview? In this section, we will explore the appropriate times to include references on your resume.

A. Preparing for Your Job Hunt

When preparing for your job hunt, it is not necessary to include references on your resume. Your focus at this stage should be on creating a compelling resume that grabs the attention of potential employers. Your resume should highlight your skills, accomplishments, and experiences that make you the best candidate for the job. Keep in mind that employers will likely ask for references during the interview process, so it is important to have them ready.

However, it is recommended that you prepare a separate reference sheet to provide to potential employers. This sheet should include the names, titles, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least three professional references. Make sure to obtain their permission before listing them as references.

B. Before a Job Interview

As you prepare for a job interview, it is a good idea to include a line on your resume stating “references available upon request.” This indicates to potential employers that you have references available and are willing to provide them.

At this stage, you should also review your reference sheet to ensure that your references are still appropriate and available. If any of your references have changed jobs or contact information, make sure to update their information on your sheet. You want to make sure that your potential employer can easily contact your references to gain insight into your work experience and qualifications.

C. After a Job Interview

After a job interview, it is appropriate to include your references on your thank-you email or letter. This not only keeps your references informed of your job search progress, but it also provides potential employers with easy access to your references. Make sure to only include references that you have obtained permission from and are willing to vouch for your qualifications.

You should not include references on your resume when preparing for your job hunt. Instead, create a separate reference sheet that you can provide to potential employers upon request. Before a job interview, indicate that your references are available upon request and review your reference sheet to ensure that your references are up-to-date. After a job interview, include your references on your thank-you email or letter, but only if they have given consent to be listed as a reference.

How to Format Your References on Your Resume

When it comes to adding references on your resume, there are some basic formatting guidelines that you should adhere to. In this section, we’ll cover these guidelines, as well as choosing the right references and listing them in the correct order. We’ll also discuss how to incorporate your references into your resume effectively.

A. Basic Formatting Guidelines

When it comes to adding your references on your resume, you should always include a separate section titled “References” or “Professional References.” This section should be placed after your work experience and education sections.

Each reference should be listed on a separate line, and you should include the following details:

• The reference’s full name
• Their job title and company
• Their email address and phone number
• The relationship you have with the reference (e.g. supervisor, colleague, etc.)

Make sure that you have obtained permission from your references before including their information on your resume. It’s also a good idea to let them know when you apply for a job and give them an idea of what the company is looking for.

B. Choosing the Right References

When choosing your references, it’s important to select the right people who can speak to your strengths and work experience. Your references should be professional contacts who you have worked closely with and who can provide insights about your work personality, character and abilities.

It’s important to note that not all references carry the same weight. Hiring managers and recruiters will be more interested in people who can provide insights into your most recent job experience, as well as those who have worked with you for a longer period of time.

C. Listing References in the Correct Order

It’s important to list your references in the correct order so that hiring managers can quickly find the most relevant references. Here’s an example of the order you may want to consider:

• Direct supervisors (e.g. current or former managers)
• Colleagues who you have worked closely with
• Professional contacts (e.g. people with whom you have collaborated on a project or worked on a committee)

D. Incorporating References in Your Resume

There are two ways you can incorporate your references into your resume: by including them in the “References” section or mentioning them in your work experience section.

If you choose to mention your references in your work experience section, make sure to include the name, job title and company of the reference. For example:

“Collaborated with [Reference Name], [Reference Job Title] at [Reference Company] to successfully launch a new product line.”

If you use this approach, make sure to also include a separate “References” section at the end of your resume.

Formatting your references correctly is an important part of creating an effective resume. Be sure to follow the basic formatting guidelines and choose the right references who can help support your candidacy.

Examples of Including References on Your Resume

Example 1: entry-level resume.

Mike Smith Manager, ABC Inc. (123) 456-7890 mike.smith.

@example.com

John Johnson Supervisor, XYZ Company (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Example 2: Experienced Professional Resume

Jane Williams Vice President, DEF Corporation (555) 123-4567 [email protected]

Sam Davis Senior Manager, GHI Company (444) 555-6666 [email protected]

When to Include References on Your Resume

It is generally recommended not to include references directly on your resume. Instead, you can create a separate document called a “References List” or “Professional References” to provide to employers when requested. This approach allows you to tailor your resume to highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications, while keeping the references readily available when needed.

However, if the job posting specifically requests references or if you have been explicitly asked to provide references upfront, you can include them on your resume. Make sure to seek permission from your references beforehand and inform them about the jobs you are applying for, so they are prepared to speak positively about your qualifications and abilities.

Remember, references are typically contacted at later stages of the hiring process when the employer is seriously considering your candidacy. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the individuals you list as references can provide relevant and positive insights into your professional abilities.

How to Format References on Your Resume

If you decide to include references on your resume, you can follow these formatting guidelines:

• Create a separate section titled “References” or “Professional References” at the end of your resume.
• List the names of your references, along with their professional titles, companies, phone numbers, and email addresses.

[Reference Name] [Professional Title] [Company] [Phone Number] [Email Address]

• Include at least two to three references, preferably from different professional contexts (e.g., former supervisors, colleagues, or clients).
• Inform your references that you have listed them on your resume and provide them with a copy of your updated resume.

Remember to keep your references list updated, removing or replacing references as needed. It’s also a good practice to thank your references for their support and provide them with updates on your job search progress.

Should You Include “References Available Upon Request” on Your Resume?

When it comes to including references on your resume, there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of stating “References Available Upon Request.” Here are some pros and cons to consider before including this phrase:

A. Pros and Cons of Including This Phrase

• It informs potential employers that you have references available if needed.
• It can show that you are comfortable and confident in providing references.
• It can save space on your resume by not listing specific references.
• It can be seen as outdated or unnecessary, as most employers assume references are available.
• It can take up valuable space on your resume that could be used for more relevant information.
• It can make you seem inexperienced or unsure of your references.

B. Alternatives to Mentioning References

Rather than stating “References Available Upon Request”, consider the following alternatives:

• Create a separate document listing your references, with a header that matches your resume format. This can show a more professional approach and allow for more detail on your references.
• Use a more proactive approach by stating “References provided upon request” or “Available to provide references upon request” in a cover letter or during an interview. This shows initiative and that you are willing to provide references if needed.
• If the job application specifically asks for references, include them in a separate section of your resume or provide them when asked.

It’s important to keep in mind that the decision to include or not include references and the manner in which they are presented can vary depending on the industry, job position, and personal preference. It is important to prioritize the most relevant and impactful information on your resume.

How to Ask for a Reference for Your Resume

If you’ve been asked to include references on your resume, you may be wondering the best way to go about asking for them. Follow these tips for requesting a reference, crafting a reference request letter, and following up with your references.

A. Tips for Requesting a Reference

When you’re looking to request a reference, there are a few things you should consider:

Choose the right people: Make sure the people you’re asking are the ones who know your work the best. Try to select people who can speak to your skills specifically related to the job you’re applying for.

Ask early: Be respectful of your references’ time and ask them at least a few weeks before you need their response.

Be clear about expectations: Let them know what kind of job you’re applying for, why you think they’d be a valuable reference, and what specific skills or experiences you’d like them to highlight.

Offer information: Providing your references with your resume and job description can be helpful in drafting a reference letter.

B. Crafting a Reference Request Letter

When you’re ready to ask someone for a reference, consider crafting a reference request letter. Some tips for a strong letter include:

Be professional: Use formal language and proper formatting.

Be specific: Provide the recipient with all necessary information, such as the job you’re applying for, the hiring company’s name and contact information, and the specific skills or experiences you’d like the reference letter to address.

Show gratitude: Express your thankfulness for their time and support.

Include your resume: Enclose a copy of your resume to provide additional context.

Be courteous: Allow them to decline if they can’t provide a reference, and thank them for their consideration.

C. Following Up with Your References

After requesting a reference, it’s important to follow up to ensure that they have submitted the letter by the deadline. Here are some steps to follow up:

Provide reminders: Send regular reminders leading up to the deadline, including a final reminder a few days prior.

Show appreciation: Thank them once again for their time and effort in providing the reference.

Notify them of the outcome: Let them know whether or not you got the job and how much you appreciate their support in the process.

Asking for a reference may seem daunting, but by following these tips, crafting a strong reference request letter, and following up appropriately, you’ll be on your way to securing a great reference for your resume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Including References on Your Resume

When it comes to including references on your resume, there are a variety of common mistakes that can be made. In order to ensure that your references section is as strong and effective as possible, it’s important to avoid these common errors.

A. Using the Wrong References

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when including references on your resume is using the wrong references. This can include references who are not relevant to the job you’re applying for, or those who may not have a positive opinion of your work.

Before including references on your resume, take some time to carefully consider who you want to include. Make sure that the individuals you choose are relevant to the job you’re applying for, and that they have positive things to say about your work experience and skills.

B. Failing to Contact Your References Ahead of Time

Another big mistake is failing to contact your references ahead of time. It’s important to reach out to your references and ask for their permission before including them on your resume. Additionally, you should let them know which specific jobs you’re applying for, so that they can tailor their reference accordingly.

By failing to contact your references ahead of time, you run the risk of them being unprepared to speak to your skills and qualifications. This can reflect poorly on you as a candidate, so it’s important to take the time to properly communicate with your references before including them on your resume.

C. Incorrectly Formatting Your References

Correct formatting is key when it comes to including references on your resume. There are a few key things to keep in mind when formatting your references section:

• Include the name, job title, company, phone number and email address of each reference
• Use a legible font and clear formatting to make your reference section easy to read
• Make sure that your references section is consistently formatted throughout your resume

By paying close attention to the formatting of your references section, you can ensure that it is professional, easy to read, and aesthetically pleasing.

D. Including Unnecessary Information

Finally, it’s important to avoid including unnecessary information when including references on your resume. This can include personal information of the references or excessive details about their job role and responsibilities.

Instead, focus on including only the most relevant and important information about your references. This can include their name, job title, company, phone number and email address. By keeping your references section concise and to the point, you can help ensure that it is as effective and impactful as possible.

Avoiding these common mistakes when including references on your resume can help ensure that your references section is strong, effective, and contributes to your overall hiring potential. By taking the time to carefully consider your references and format your section properly, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

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How to Quickly Write a Modern Reference Sheet

When an employer asks for your professional references, it’s hard to tell exactly how you should send them. Your first thought might be to plop them in the body of an email or list them in an unformatted Word doc. However, there are a few strategies to make your reference sheet appear professional (instead of scrambled together last minute). 

This expert guide on how to make a reference sheet covers:

What are professional references?

• The question you must ask your professional references
• Etiquette for listing professional references
• The most common reference sheet myth
• Writing a reference sheet
• A professional references template
• A reference sheet example

By following these easy tips on listing professional references, you’ll be able to whip up a modern reference sheet in no time!

Let’s start by answering the first question you might be asking, “ What are professional references ?”

Professional references are people you’ve worked closely with in a formal setting who are willing to talk about how amazing you are!

It’s important you don’t list your family as professional references , because an employer won’t be able to trust their opinion. Instead, you can ask your former/ current:

• Supervisors
• Professors/ teachers

Wondering how you land a mentor to use as a stellar reference? Check out this awesome guide on How to Get a Mentor!

The most important part of choosing professional references for a reference sheet is using people who can talk about related skills and experiences.

If you don’t have experience in the exact job you’re applying for, choose references who can talk about related transferable skills , like teamwork, leadership, and organization.

Now that we’ve gone over what professional references are, let’s cover the question you must ask before putting someone on your reference sheet.

The 1 must-ask question for your professional references

Alright, this is mandatory advice, so listen closely!  

You absolutely must ask for permission to use someone as a reference.  

There’s no reason to surprise a reference, especially because them agreeing to be your reference means they’ll actually say nice things about you.

Btw, when it’s someone who’s said, “use me as a reference anytime,” it’s always good to just give them a heads up . That way, they’re prepared when someone calls and more likely to answer an unknown number.

Let’s go over 1 more piece of reference sheet etiquette- this one is an insider, lesser known tip, so get ready!

Professional References Etiquette

This part of listing professional references is a great way to impress your references and help them talk about how great YOU are.

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When someone agrees to be your reference, send them an updated copy of your resume. That way, they’ll have a complete picture of your career. This is also important if your reference is someone from a couple of years ago, so they get an update on where your career is now.

Emailing your references a copy of your resume is the best way to give them a little extra boost of confidence in you and all of the amazing things you bring to a company!

Now that we’ve covered the etiquette, let’s go deeper into how to make a reference sheet!

How to write a reference sheet

Writing a reference sheet is much easier than your resume or cover letter, so don’t spend time stressing about this! Once you’ve learned the basic reference sheet template, you’ll be able to make new ones super quickly!

#1 Reference Sheet Myth

Before we dive into how to make a reference sheet, I want to disprove a common myth. 

Your resume should NOT say “references available upon request.” 

Also, there’s no reason to send your reference sheet with your job application or without them asking for it.

Why?  

There are 2 main reasons:

• They already know you’ll send them your references if they ask. Don’t use up valuable space on your resume with an empty phrase about references. 
• Reference checks are usually the last step of the hiring process, so give them space to focus on your resume and cover letter first. (btw, if someone tells you they’re checking your references, it means they’re seriously thinking about hiring you- yay!!)

Alright, now that we’ve cleared up that reference sheet myth, let’s move onto what you have to put in it.

What to include when listing professional references

There are a few essential elements of a reference sheet. It’s important to optimize each step of your job app- even something as small as your reference sheet. 

By making a detailed reference sheet template, it gives them a clear idea of who they’re contacting.

Rather than just listing the names and contact info for your references, also tell them about your connection.

Overall, this is what you should include for each of your professional references: 

• Company/ office address
• Preferred phone number
• Relationship to you.

By giving them a detailed briefing of your professional references, your reference sheet will stand out!

Professional references template

Don’t overthink your reference sheet template- it’s really not complicated! Here’s an easy way to format your professional references template:

Reference sheet example

Now that you’ve checked out the professional references template, here’s a reference sheet example so you can quickly create your own!

These tips to quickly write a reference sheet will help you avoid that “deer in the headlights” moment after someone asks for your references. Remember to include a little background information for each reference, ask permission or give your references a heads up, and send your references a copy of your resume. Once you’ve done these steps, your reference sheet is ready to go!

Watch now to accelerate your career!

Over 80% of jobs are only found on the hidden market. Learn how to ditch your resume & start growing the best resource you have as a job seeker: your network!

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