How To List References On A Resume (With Examples)

In today’s competitive job market, knowing how to effectively list references on a resume is crucial. While having strong references can validate the claims made in your resume, including them directly on your document can take up valuable space—especially since many hiring managers prefer not to see them until later in the hiring process.

If you’re gearing up to apply for a job and uncertain about how to handle your references, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover how to create a reference list, select the right references, and properly ask someone to be a reference. Plus, we’ll provide an example reference list for your convenience.

Key Takeaways:

• Do not include references or the phrase “references available upon request” on your resume.

• Organize your references on a separate document and only provide them when requested.

• Select references who can specifically speak to your skills and experiences relevant to the job at hand.

• Notify your references at least a week in advance before they may be contacted.

• Unless otherwise specified, aim to provide at least three references.

Should You Include References on a Resume?

No, you shouldn’t include references on your resume unless the job posting specifically requests it. Your resume should ideally be one page long, or two at the most, and including references can detract from the essential information you want to highlight.

Experts agree that using the phrase “references available upon request” at the bottom of your resume is redundant. Hiring managers assume this and it’s akin to stating “interviews available upon request.” Instead, create a separate document dedicated solely to your references. Sending this document along with your resume is often unnecessary, as hiring managers typically request references only after determining you are a strong candidate.

How to Choose Your References

Selecting the right references is key. Think about individuals who can effectively vouch for your talents and experiences relevant to the job you are applying for.

If considering a current colleague as a reference, ensure they are aware of your job search. Avoid listing your current boss unless you’re confident they will support your decision to leave.

It’s beneficial to have a variety of references who can attest to different aspects of your professional abilities. Brainstorm individuals who fit into the following categories:

• Current/former supervisor

• Current/former coworker

• Current/former employee

• Current/former business partner

• Current/former educator or mentor

Proactively choosing your top references before applying for jobs can streamline the process down the line.

How to Request References

When asking someone to be a reference, it’s important to contact them in advance, provide relevant background information, and follow up with gratitude.

• Reach out to your potential references to inform them you wish to include them as a reference. This not only ensures you have the correct contact details, but also prepares them to provide a strong recommendation when contacted.

• Provide background information. Depending on your relationship with the reference, you might share a copy of your resume or the job description, allowing them to better tailor their feedback.

• Express your gratitude. Always send a thank-you email to those who agree to be your references. This keeps them informed that they may be contacted soon and helps maintain a positive rapport.

How to Write a Reference Request Email

When composing a reference request email, ensure you do so at least a week in advance, use a professional format, and provide context regarding your request.

• Provide ample notice. Busy professionals appreciate advance notice of your request, so aim to contact them at least a week before they may be contacted by a hiring manager.

• Use a professional email format. Use a clear subject line (e.g., “Reference Request for John Doe”), and ensure your email is formatted professionally.

• Introduce the request. After a brief catch-up, be direct about the position(s) you’re applying for and ask for their permission to list them as a reference.

• Explain why you chose them. Share your reasoning for selecting them as a reference, highlighting their ability to speak to your specific skills.

• Provide relevant information. Include your resume, cover letter, and job description if necessary to assist them in their recommendation.

• Thank them. Always express appreciation for their time and consideration.

Reference Request Email Examples

Here are examples of reference request emails to assist you in crafting your own:

1. Reference Request Email to a Former Colleague

   Subject: Reference Request for Ally Knope

   Dear Dana,

   I hope you and your family are doing well!

   I’m applying for a marketing director position at a school here in Kansas City, and I would like to include you on my list of references. Given our collaborative work on various marketing projects at Central High School, I believe you could provide valuable insights into my skills to hiring managers.

   If you agree, I’ve attached my current resume and the job description for your reference. The hiring manager may reach out in the next two weeks.

   Please feel free to let me know if you have any questions or if you’re unable to assist at this time. Thank you so much for considering my request, and I hope we can reconnect soon!

   Best regards,

   Ally Knope
   333-444-5555
   allyk@email.com

2. Reference Request Email to a Former Professor

   Subject: Connor Wyatt – Reference Request

   Dear Dr. Hall,

   I hope this email finds you well.

   I’m applying for a research and development position at Devon Energy in Oklahoma City and have been asked to provide references who can speak to my technical skills and character. Would you be willing to refer me for this role?

   Your mentorship at OSU has been invaluable, and I believe your perspective on my abilities as a student and research assistant would significantly enhance my candidacy.

   I need to submit my references by Tuesday, September 15, so if you could let me know at your earliest convenience, I would greatly appreciate it. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

   Thank you very much,

   Connor Wyatt
   777-888-9999
   connorwyatt@email.com

How to Format Your References List

Your references should be on a separate document, formatted in a way that complements your resume and cover letter. Here are some guidelines to format your references list:

• Contact Information. Start with your name, location, phone number, and email, using the same format as your resume.

• Title. Include a clear title in a larger font (e.g., “Professional References”) to indicate the document’s purpose.

• Order. List your references in the following order:

• Full Name

• Professional Title

• Company/Institution

• Full Address

• Phone Number

• Email Address

• A brief description of your relationship, including duration and context.

Sample Reference List

Here’s an example of a professional reference list you can use as a template:

Reference List FAQ

1. How many references should I include?

   If not specified by the company, aim for at least three references. For higher-level positions, consider providing between five and seven references.

2. How should I order my references?

   Start with your strongest references. While it’s unlikely the employer will contact every reference, they often begin with the first ones listed. If all references are of similar quality, arrange them chronologically, prioritizing those you’ve worked with most recently.

   As with tailoring your resume for a specific job, customize your reference list based on the role you’re applying for.

3. Who shouldn’t I include on my reference list?

   Avoid including family members or individuals with whom you have had poor relationships. Family references can signal a limited professional network, and references who may not speak positively about you can jeopardize your chances. If you had a legitimate working relationship with a family member, it’s acceptable to include them, especially if they have a different last name.

4. How do I include references I currently work with?

   Include current colleagues only if appropriate. If you’re discreetly job hunting, it may be wise to avoid listing current coworkers. However, if you are leaving for reasons unrelated to job dissatisfaction, feel free to include your current supervisor, provided you discuss it with them beforehand.

5. When shouldn’t I submit a list of references?

   Only submit a reference list if explicitly requested by the job posting. Unsolicited references may come off as outdated. Generally, employers prefer to receive references only when they ask, so have your list prepared but wait until they request it.

6. Can I use personal references?

   Generally, no, avoid using personal or character references. They lack the credibility of professional references. However, if a job posting requests more references than you have professionally, adding a character reference may be acceptable. Choose someone who can vouch for your skills in a relevant context.

7. How do you list a reference who no longer works there?

   When listing a reference no longer at the same company, simply include their updated contact information and a note indicating your prior relationship.

   This situation is common, so a brief explanation will suffice. The same applies if the company has changed its name—list the previous name and note its current designation.

References

1. University of California, Davis – Creating a Reference List for a Potential Job

2. Purdue Online Writing Lab – Reference Sheets

Author

Matthew Zane

Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.

Expert

Don Pippin, MHRM, CPRW, CDCS

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.