References on a resume: a complete guide with examples

Resume real estate is valuable and you want to maximize your limited space. But what about references? You'll need them at some point, so shouldn't you just put them on your resume to save time? The answer might surprise you. We'll look at how to utilize your references effectively and get your resume noticed.

In this article, we’ll discuss:

• What do I put for references on a resume?

• Who should you use as a reference?

• Who should not be a reference on a resume?

• Is it okay to put “references upon request” on a resume?

• Are references required for a job?

• What are 3 things to do when asking someone to be a reference?

• 2 examples of how to ask someone to be a reference

• Example of a resume reference list

What do you put down for references on a resume?

These days, your references shouldn’t be on your resume unless it's specifically asked for in the job description. Although it used to be standard practice to include them, that’s no longer true. Recruiters and hiring managers are busy people, often dealing with hundreds of resumes at a time. They won’t check those references until they’re ready to make you an offer, so you’re better off using that space for other purposes.

A better option is to have a list of references in a separate document formatted similarly to your resume and cover letter. This way, when they ask you for your references, you have your list ready to go.

Who should you use as a reference?

When potential employers check your references, they’re interested in how you function in a professional setting. For that reason, your references should be work-related, and the people on your list should be able to speak to your skills, background, and work ethic. The best people to have as references are:

• Current or past co-workers

• Former managers or supervisors

• Clients you’ve worked with directly

• Colleagues at an internship (if it’s very recent)

• Professors or instructors (if you’re a fresh grad)

Who you should not ask for a reference

There are a few people you shouldn’t ask for a professional reference, under any circumstances. They include your family, friends, any supervisor who gave you a poor performance evaluation (or fired you), anyone you haven’t asked to be a reference, and celebrities. Also, under no circumstances should you pull a “George Costanza” (from “Seinfeld”) and create a fake reference. This never works out well, and could cost you the job when the recruiter realizes that there is no “Art Vandelay.” 

Example reference list

Once you’ve contacted your potential references (and they’ve agreed), it’s time to compile your list. It should have the same format as your resume and cover letter and should contain the following information:

1. Their name

2. Current job title

3. Where they work

4. Their email address

5. Work Phone number

6. A one-sentence description of your professional relationship.

3 Things to do when asking someone for a reference

Yes, you have to ask someone to be your reference ahead of time. You want them to have something prepared so that when the hiring manager calls, they’re not caught off guard. Don’t just list someone and think, “Oh, they won’t mind.” Trust us: they will mind. And you don’t want to risk getting a less-than-stellar reference because you didn’t take the time to ask them first. To get ready to acquire a list of references, consider the following three steps.

1. Compile your list

Creating a list of references might take some time, so you’ll want to do this in advance so you’re not scrambling around at the last minute. A hiring manager probably won’t ask for more than two or three at a time, but, just like tailoring your resume, it’s good to have a few more names handy as they might be more able to speak to particular skill sets for the job you’re applying for. 

2. Make contact with your reference

You can send an email, but a phone call is the best way to ask someone for a reference. If you haven’t spoken in a while, remind them who you are and how you know each other. When you’re asking, do just that—ask. Frame your question politely and directly, such as, “I’m beginning to look for a new job—would you be comfortable being a reference?" or "Do you have time in the next few weeks to act as a professional reference?" Always give them an “out,” especially if they seem reticent. A lukewarm reference isn’t much better than no reference, so if they don’t seem like they’re on board, don’t put them on your list.

3. Keep your reference informed

It’s also important to keep your reference “in the loop” as it applies to your progress. You don’t have to provide every single detail of your job search, but if you’ve given their name to a hiring manager, give your reference a “heads up” to let them know they’ll be getting a call or email. Make sure they have a copy of your current resume and the job description so that they can tailor their answers appropriately. And don't forget to thank them for their efforts—a personal note is always appreciated.

Example of how to ask someone to be a reference

If you’re planning on asking a professional colleague to act as a reference via email or letter, here is an easily adjustable example you can use to write your letter.

If you’re starting your job search, consider utilizing Career.io’s Job Tracker tool, which will allow you to apply, save, and track jobs, all in one convenient dashboard.

Key takeaways

1. Your references shouldn't be on your resume unless it's specifically asked for in the job description. 

2. A better option than putting references on your resume is to have a separate reference document, which can be submitted if requested by the employer. 

3. There’s no need to put “references available on request.” If the hiring manager needs them, he or she will ask for them.

4. Potential professional references include current or past co-workers, former managers or supervisors, clients you’ve worked with directly, and professors or instructors (if you’re a fresh grad).