include references in cover letter or resume

The Right Way to Submit References During Your Job Search (Template Included)

As you’re applying to jobs, you may be wondering about the best way to submit your references. Should you put them on your initial application materials? And how would you even list references on a resume?

The answer is, you don’t.

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Listing your references on a resume that should be one page (or maybe two pages ) is a waste of valuable space. A hiring manager or recruiter doesn’t have the ability to contact references for everyone who applies to an open position or even everyone they bring in for an interview. So save that resume room for detailing your skills, achievements, and qualifications.

What about writing, “ References available upon request, ” on your resume?

Avoid this too.

There’s “no need to state anything about references on your resume. It is assumed that you’ll share the info when requested,” Muse career coach Leto Papadopoulos says. Don’t waste a resume line to say something that’s taken for granted. (After all, you wouldn’t write, “Available for interviews upon request,” would you?)

Read on to learn the right way to list your references, download our template, and see an example.

When Do You Need References?

“Employers will typically check your references just before they’re ready to make an offer,” Papadopoulos says. That’s why you don’t need to provide them when you’re first applying for a job. But it’s a good idea to have them ready to go before you even land an interview.

If a company is ready to hire you pending a reference check, the last thing you want is to be held up by asking people to be a reference or collecting their contact information. Instead, you should “have your references ready and keep them updated during your search,” Papadopoulos says.

Who Should You Ask to Be a Reference?

Most companies will ask for two or three references from a candidate, so it’s always best to have at least three ready to go. Some prospective employers may request a certain mix of types of references, but generally you want to list former managers (or your current manager if they know about and are supportive of your job search) and former or current colleagues; if you’re earlier in your career and don’t have many former managers, you could list professors you worked closely with. If you’d be leading a team, you may be asked for a reference from a former direct report. For some client-facing roles, like account management, companies might want to hear from a former client or customer, so be sure to read up on the norms for your industry.

(Read more about who to list as a reference here or—if you have less work experience— here .)

The Right Way to Provide Your References to an Employer

Once you know who your references will be, you want to make it easy to submit them to employers when asked. So you should compile everything you need into a reference sheet, one handy—and well-formatted—document that can expedite the hiring process in the final stages.

When the time comes, you can attach your reference sheet to an email as a Word document or PDF file, or you can simply copy and paste the information into the body of the email.

What Information to Include on Your Reference Sheet

On your reference sheet, you should list each reference with the following information:

• Current Job/Position
• Phone Number
• Email Address
• Reference Description: Write one sentence explaining how you know or have worked with this person, where, when, and for how long. (Check out the example below to see what this looks like in action.)

There’s no need to include your reference’s home or work address—companies aren’t going to be mailing them anything. And if a reference expresses a strong preference for a certain method of contact, it’s OK to put “(preferred contact)” next to that line on your reference list.

To keep things easy for the hiring manager, it’s also a good idea to include your own name, phone number, and email at the top of the sheet (see the template and example below).

Reference Sheet Template and Example

You can use our template to make sure you have everything you need for all of your references.

Download the template here.

Here’s one example of what your reference sheet might look like:

References for Monica Medina (999) 000-1111 [email protected]

Nicole Chiu Director of Engineering Sunshine Inc. (555) 123-4567 [email protected] Nicole was my direct manager from 2016 to 2018 when I worked as a software developer for Sunshine Inc.

Kwame Smith Front-End Software Engineer Zapp Co. (111) 222-3333 [email protected] Kwame is an engineer I collaborate with daily in my current position at Zapp Co.

Dr. Carol Moore Professor of Computer Science University of Pennsylvania (123) 987-6543 [email protected] Carol was my professor in four different classes and my faculty advisor for my computer science degree.

Keeping references off your resume is not only the standard now, it’s also more thoughtful toward the people you’ve asked to speak on your behalf. By only submitting their names and contact information when asked directly (usually at the end of the hiring process), you’ll know when a prospective new employer is actually going to contact them—and you can give them a heads up, pass on any important information about the job or company you’re applying for, and thank them for their help.

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How and When to Include References on a Resume

It used to be considered essential to include references on a resume — back when your dad thought a polyester leisure suit with a 3-inch-wide tie was the height of fashion. But times change, and today a resume that includes references is considered old-fashioned and undesirable — in all but a few limited circumstances. 

What happened? Did it suddenly become irrelevant if a job seeker had former employers who could vouch for her amazing talents? Did new employers lose interest in hearing from college professors who affirmed that this new grad was the most promising student they ever had?

We’ll get into the reasons in a bit. But first, just so you know we’re not crazy, allow us to quote from the first five responses we got to the Google search “Should I include references on a resume?”

• “Job references should never be included on a resume.”
• “[I]t is a best practice to leave references off your resume.”
• “Unless specifically requested, references do not belong on a resume. It is almost never a good idea to include them….”
• “As a rule of thumb, you don’t need to include references in your resume.”
• “Do not put ‘Reference available upon request’, or the names and contact points of the references themselves.” 

And those were just the first five hits! 

If you prefer to get your career advice in a video, check out Career Coaching’s “Should You Include References on Your Resume?” We would quibble with this career coach on whether a resume should be two pages instead of one, but otherwise his advice lines up with ours 100%.

This article will explore the whys and wherefores of the now-dead references list on modern resumes — and the very few exceptions where they can be included. Buckle up, references fans, because it’s going to be a rough ride! 

Many people struggle when faced with the task, do I add all my experience to my resume? While there are no hard-and-fast rules concerning your previous employment, the following tips should help you give you a better idea of whether or not it's necessary to list all of your past jobs on your resume.

Why are references on a resume no longer used?

Sort of like video killed the radio star, we can thank the internet for killing the idea of references on a resume. The short answer is: references on a resume are usually sensitive information and should not be widely distributed due to privacy concerns. There’s also the idea of digital etiquette, which dictates you shouldn’t mention people willy-nilly, opening them up to unexpected calls and messages. 

Before the 1990s, when you couldn’t send mail without licking a stamp, resumes were relatively private documents that were printed on paper, enclosed in an envelope and dropped in a mailbox. Sure, a resume might be passed around an office, hand to hand, but this didn’t make the references’ names, addresses or phone numbers accessible to millions.

That all changed with the electronic revolution, which turned resumes into digital documents that actually could be accessible to millions. Today you can (and probably should) post your resume on LinkedIn or any number of other totally public job-search websites. So do you think your old boss would be thrilled to know that you’ve put his name, title, employer, phone number and email address in front of potentially billions of people? Probably not.

Identity theft, spoofing and hacking are real-world dangers that we all face today. “Privacy” has become one of the watchwords of the information age, a shrinking commodity to be guarded as closely as possible. Even if you want to sell your car on Facebook or Craigslist, you might not want to publish your phone number or email address for all the world to see — you want people to approach you through a private channel.

So that’s the primary reason that references on a resume have fallen out of vogue, to avoid publicizing people’s private contact information. But other reasons abound. If hiring managers are looking for references, they don’t need to have their secretaries fire up their IBM Selectric and type a letter to your last employer inquiring about your job performance. 

People today are far easier to find and much easier to contact — no Pony Express needed. And if employers DO want references, you can send them in a personal email, which unlike a resume does entail a certain expectation of privacy.

When is it OK to include references on a resume?

If an employer specifically asks you to include references on a resume, forget everything we’ve said and do it! But you will rarely receive this request, so this issue will not come up very often.

If an employer is seeking references, be sure that the employer wants the references to be listed “on your resume.” It might be a better idea to include references in a separate attachment that is not actually part of your resume. 

Every resume needs to have five components: 

• Header : Your contact info
• Summary/profile : Your “elevator pitch”
• Employment history : Your professional track record
• Education : Where did you go to school?
• Skills : What are you really good at?

That’s a lot of information to include in a one-page document, and most experts agree that a resume should be only one page. Two pages are sometimes considered OK, especially if your job history is so stellar that you were both an astronaut and a brain surgeon. But for ordinary mortals, no hiring manager has ever complained that a one-page resume is too short.

So references almost always present two problems: 1) Nobody was expecting them, and 2) References will usually make your resume spill over onto a second page.

Even worse, this second reference page in a resume might be totally blank at the bottom, containing nothing but references, in just a few lines at the top. This kind of spill-over is never a good idea, and it suggests that you need to trim your text to hold your resume to one page.

Resume without references

This resume has everything it needs and fits perfectly onto one page.

Resume with references

Including references often adds an unnecessary second page.

Should I include a separate references page?

Should you include a separate references page that is not actually part of your resume? This is a much better solution if the employer has specifically requested references. Creating a separate document that is solely for references resolves the problem of putting people’s private contact info on your public resume.

In North America, the gold standard is a one-page resume. In the UK and certain other countries, however, two-page resumes are more common. But if you do choose to create a two-page resume, that doesn’t mean you should include references just because you have more room. Provide what is asked for and what is expected. Reference pages usually aren’t required, so you’re better off using the second page of a resume as additional real estate for your employment history, educational achievements, job qualifications and certifications .

How to deal with professional references

Having said all that, great professional references could be the secret sauce that seals the deal. If you were a speechwriter for President Barack Obama, hopefully that would appear somewhere in your employment history, and possibly in your summary . But if your friend Barack has offered to vouch for you to future employers, think twice before you include his private email and personal cellphone on your public resume.

You could include this info in a separate attachment, or even as part of your cover letter. But does it belong in your public resume? Most experts would say no, and Barack Obama would probably agree.

Can I include references without their permission?

No way! You’re buying a one-way ticket to unemployment hell if you blindside former employers by listing them as references on a resume without even checking with them first.

A job search is a process, and you can’t just skip a bunch of steps. If you used to be Bill and Melinda Gates’ nanny, you can’t just put their private contact info on your resume without getting their permission first. 

If you need character references on a resume, reach out to your most promising prospects. How do you ask someone to be your reference? Explain what you’re up to, what kind of job you’re seeking and why you need a reference. If you used to work for Warren Buffett, he’s probably busy earning another $1 billion today, but he might have five minutes to dash off a note saying you were a great bookkeeper.

Speaking of which, instead of seeking permission to publish their contact info, why not ask former employers for a short testimonial about what an awesome employee you were? You can probably get far more mileage from a professional reference letter than from a phone number that Elon Musk doesn’t answer anyway.

How to list references on a resume?

The name, title and company of the reference will be enough for any resume. It is not obligatory to include their email or contact details as you will be asked for these details when it comes to collecting references at the end of the process. If you include their contact details on every resume, you will find that they are contacted by lots of random employers who are curious about finding out more about you but not at the job offer stage yet. They definitely won't appreciate all this attention and will soon remember you far less favourably. You need to keep your referess on side.

If you are asked to provide references, three is ideal, two is too few and four may be too many. If you list references at all, providing three is a good rule of thumb. But always ask yourself whether references are needed at all, and if so whether they could be provided in a separate document.

The referees should ideally all be professional contacts from your previous employers, ideally more senior than you and happy to provide a reference. Some companies ask for any reference requests to be directed to HR, so it is acceptable to include the name of the HR Manager if appropriate. Always ask their permission, though - don't assume that they would be happy to be contacted directly either. Some companies prefer reference requests to filter through their generalist HR inbox.

Should I include references if my resume is too short?

No. Do not include references just to pad a short resume. If you’re just starting out in the world, like a high school or college student who hasn’t graduated yet, pump up your resume with your academic achievements, summary statement, internships , volunteer work and/or job-related skills. Tell your own story, and don’t expect someone else to tell it for you.

Should I say ‘References available upon request’?

The phrase “References available upon request” used to be popular but is widely frowned upon today. Employers will assume that references are available upon request, so there's no real need to say so. This not only takes up and extra section on the resume, it adds absolutely zero value to the person reading it. Don't be annoyingly formal.

Resume references examples

If you do want to include professional references, here are some resume reference examples:

Generally, your professional references will be from companies you’ve already mentioned in your employment history, or professors at colleges mentioned in your education section . So there may be little need to explain who these people are. But in some cases, you may also want to include a line that provides more information about who these individuals are.

Key takeaways

• Do not include references on a resume unless an employer asks you to.
• Look for alternative methods of spotlighting a former employer’s endorsement, like a recommendation letter.
• Never include professional references without first checking with each person you list.
• If you do include references, list three of them.

Best of luck in your job hunt — and should any employer ever ask why you didn’t include any references on your resume, feel free to cite Resume.io as a reference!

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How to List References on Your Resume (With Examples)

7 min read · Updated on July 30, 2024

To include references on your resume or not? That is the question

At some point in your job search, an employer, recruiter, or HR professional is likely to ask you for a list of resume references. Many people will include a list of references right on their resume, or at least allude to the fact that references are available. The big question is… should you do either of these things?

If you're at the point of your job search where you need to know how to list references on your resume (or whether you should include them at all), you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll cover the following topics:

Whether you're supposed to put references on a resume

Why you should (or shouldn't) include resume references 

Where your references belong – and how to write them up

Who qualifies as a good resume reference

Let's get started!

Are you supposed to put references on a resume?

No, you are not supposed to put references on a resume

Instead, focus on providing the details that will convince a recruiter or hiring manager to contact you for an interview. Remember, your cover letter and resume are designed to get you the interview. The details you highlight on the resume during the job search should support this goal.

While it varies from company to company, most employers won't ask for your resume references until they're ready to reach out to them. This typically doesn't happen until you've made it through the initial interview rounds and are among the final candidates for a job. If, for any reason, an employer wants your references earlier in the process, rest assured they'll give you a chance to provide them. There's no need to place references on your resume when they won't be used until you're one of the final candidates.

That said, you should brainstorm a list of potential resume references as soon as you start submitting job applications, so you're ready when a prospective employer has specifically requested your professional references.

Why not include references on a resume?

Including references on a resume is simply a waste of space

Resume real estate is valuable and, as you know, when it comes to writing your resume, you only get so many pages to work with. Don't waste that space by putting a resume references section or adding the phrase “References available upon request.” 

Many employers usually won't ask for this information until you're further along in the interview process - and they know you'll provide references if they request them. Additionally, adding references to your resume can cause your application to get hung up in the applicant tracking system, or ATS , the software the company uses to manage candidates.

ATS can be programmed to automatically email references when they're found in the scanning process. If your reference doesn't respond to the automated message sent out by the ATS, your application could get caught in a pending status.

Where do you put references, if not on a resume?

Rather than putting references on your resume, type them up on a separate document

On a separate reference page, include the person's first name and last name, current job title and company name, email address, and phone number. Be sure to check with each of your professional references ahead of time, to confirm that the person is willing to be your reference and to verify which phone number and email address they'd like you to share with employers.

It's also helpful to add a line that explains to the reader how you've come to know this reference. For example,

It could be as simple as mentioning that you “worked together in Company XYZ's marketing department from July 2015 to November 2017,” or 

That your professional reference was your “direct supervisor at ABC Institute between 2018 and 2019.” 

You don't have to write a paragraph explaining your relationship to a reference, but it's nice to provide the employer or hiring manager with a little context.

When you type up your best resume references, consider using the same header information and font style that was used for your resume, so that the documents appear to be part of one overall package - even if they're not attached to one another. 

Resume references example: how to write your references

For example, if we were writing up resume references to accompany Alexa Campbell's resume , they might look something like this: 

Who should you ask to be a reference?

When choosing your professional references, select three to five people who have insight into your hard and soft skills and who you trust to say good things about you and your job performance. 

A good rule of thumb is to have at least three professional references – five if you're applying for an executive position. 

EXPERT TIP: If you opt to have more than three to five professional references, then the extras can be personal references. 

As you approach each person you want to have as a reference, give them an idea of the position you're applying for and how your skills match the role. This will help them know what to say when they're contacted. 

For the professional references

Try to find professional references who know about your skills and can talk about your career achievements in a way that aligns with what the job wants. Most of the time, your professional references will be talking about your hard skills – the things you know how to do from education and experience. 

Professional resume references examples include:

Former supervisors or managers

A leader at a place you volunteer

For the personal references

It is okay to have personal references, but you should never provide personal references INSTEAD OF professional references. Always, always give professional references first and then personal ones. You'd list the same details about your personal references as you do the professional references – Name, Title (who they are to you), phone, and email. Adding a couple of personal references can help boost your candidacy, as these folks will probably talk a lot about your soft skills , which employers value. 

Personal resume references examples include (note that not a single personal reference in the following list is a relative – your mom and grandma should not appear on your reference list!):

Academic Advisors

Sports Coach

Members of your network

Maximize resume space to improve job search impact

Having a good set of resume references to lean on while you search for a job is great, as they can help you get from interview to job offer. However, because of the limited space on your resume, you should create a separate document that contains just your references.

Remember, the goal of your resume is to get an interview. Before you sit down to speak with the hiring manager or recruiter, your references aren't going to help you. As such, you should aim to include only those details on your resume that will win an interview. 

When it's time to give your references to a hiring manager, make sure that you have a carefully curated list of contacts that can confidently speak to your abilities and how your skills match up with what the company is hiring for. 

Is your resume not getting results? Request a free review to find out how your resume is falling short .

This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Marsha Hebert. 

Recommended reading:

What to Remove From Your Resume Right Away

How to Keep a Bad Reference From Ruining Your Career

Everything You Need to Know About References for Your Job Search

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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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 Add References to a Resume (And Should You Even Bother?)

3 key takeaways

• The importance of professional references
• Listing references on a resume
• Managing your references with the free Teal Contacts Tracker

Getting your resume just right is crucial in today's job search. That means optimizing every single detail, including how (and whether) to include references on your resume.

Including a few character references on your resume used to be standard practice, but is this still the right move in today's job market? 

If you're wondering how to add references to resume sections, below you'll learn when to include them, what kinds of references to use, how to format them, and more—all to help you craft a better resume.

Importance of professional references

References are the people who can best vouch for your professional success and experience.

But they aren't just an endorsement.

References are also a catalyst for career growth and success—offering a tangible record of your capabilities and a glimpse into your character, work ethic, and potential cultural fit. Having the right references can open doors to new opportunities.  

For hiring managers, references validate the claims you've made in your resume and during the interview process. They provide an external perspective and give weight to the achievements and skills you've highlighted.

Track your references with Teal

Want to save all of your references in one central location without having to worry about messy spreadsheets, losing cell phone contacts, or updating across platforms? Use Teal's Contacts Tracker for easy access.

With Teal's Contacts Tracker you can keep track of details like the last time you contacted someone and automatically assign dates to follow up in the same place where you manage your entire job search and write your resume!

The role of references in a resume 

Traditionally, resume references were considered an important part of the application process. However, modern hiring practices indicate that it's no longer relevant (or even acceptable) to list references on a resume.

Why resume references on a resume are often irrelevant

A hiring manager or recruiter usually won't take the time to contact your references until later in the hiring process—after they've already interviewed you. 

Well, if the rest of your resume doesn't align with what they're looking for or the hiring manager decides during the interview that you're not a good fit, then references are irrelevant.

Changes in modern resume formats

Resume best practices indicate that every word of your resume should should showcase the top 10% of your experience that's relevant to the role you're applying for.

This means your resume real estate is precious.

You have limited space to stand out and make an impression with that top 10%. Every detail of your resume should be strategically optimized for that purpose. Including references is not only irrelevant to highlighting the most important and pertinent parts of your experience, but it also just takes up unnecessary space.

Simply put? You shouldn't include references on a resume. (And the same guideline applies to your cover letter, too!)

Understanding when to include resume references 

While excluding resume references is the general rule, there might be some very specific circumstances where including a resume reference list, or letter of recommendation is acceptable or required.

For example, if the job description asks you to provide references, then you should.

Some industries or jobs—think agencies or therapists—also request client testimonials or professional references during the initial application process.

Providing a resume references section or a separate references page is acceptable in these rare instances.

How to add references to a resume

Here are some resume references examples of how listing professional references might look.

References for Belle Deshowdilon

Madi Smith (preferred contact)

• Former CEO and Chair, TechWiz
• 206.555.5555
• [email protected]
• Madi coached and mentored me in my early career while I worked at her firm.

Ryan Peshias

• Chief Marketing Officer, SavTech
• 411.623.8974
• Direct Supervisor
• Ryan oversaw the marketing department during my time at SavTech.

Note: If you're including more than one reference, be sure to format each of them exactly the same way.

3 Types of references

Job references (or character references) usually fit into three categories. Sometimes, an employer will ask for specific types; in others, you'll have to decide what makes the most sense.

1. Professional references  

Professional resume references are people in your professional network. They could be coworkers, managers, industry peers, or someone you often go to for career advice or guidance, like a mentor.

A good professional reference will know:

• You (who you are, your basic professional temperament)
• Your capabilities (the jobs and skills you've demonstrated)
• Your value (why the recruiter should hire you)

Choose professional references who know you well and can speak to the work you'll be doing in the new position. 

Often, this would be your direct manager, a former manager at a former employer, a career coach, or a former colleague who has worked closely with you. Anyone in your professional network who can vouch for your job performance and work experience to a potential employer could be a good choice.

But, be mindful that professional references can be challenging to navigate.

If you don't want your current employer to know you're looking elsewhere, you might not be able to choose your direct supervisor.  

If you don't see any obvious choices, consider those who can only speak positively to your relevant professional skills, even if they've seen those skills in a different context.

2. Academic references  

Academic resume references are those who know you from an educational setting. It could be a high school guidance counselor, a college professor, or even a thesis advisor.

Typically, you'll need to provide an academic reference for entry-level jobs where the employer doesn't expect applicants to have much professional experience. (These also tend to show up in academic job listings.)

Choosing an academic reference is usually straightforward:

Select someone from your academic career who knows you and your educational background well. You also want to select someone from whom you earned your highest academic credential, if possible.

3. Personal references  

A personal reference is any other person who knows you but doesn't fall into the professional or academic categories. 

Some jobs (such as those in the government or military) want to hear from people who've known you for a long time. People like friends you grew up with (or even their parents). In these cases, the prospective employer will probably give specific instructions.

If it's up to you to choose a personal reference, think through the people who know you personally. If you can list someone with some social standing or high degree of trust (like a well-known businessperson, civil servant, or community leader), doing so might be a good strategy.

How to request a reference

Figuring out who to use as a reference is tricky enough; now, you need to ask them whether they are willing to be a reference. 

Yes, requesting references can feel awkward—but a small amount of discomfort now is better than a lot later.

Ask permission, not forgiveness 

Reach out to a prospective reference before listing them anywhere, and make sure they are willing to serve in this way.

Verify contact information 

The contact information you have for your reference might be too personal (e.g., [email protected] ) or too professional (e.g., a business-only phone extension).

Asking your reference what contact information they want to be included is courteous (and it'll help get a faster response when prospective employers reach out to them).

Choose wisely

Make sure you're asking people who truly know you well. Your CEO might seem like a prestigious reference, but if you've only spoken once, two years ago, they might not be a good reference (or a willing one!).

Maintain family boundaries

Unless your mother or father is the CEO, family members don't belong on your reference list.

If in doubt, don't

If you're unsure how a person feels about you, don't reach out.

You want to be sure the people you list as references will actually say good things about you, not bring up that argument you had last February!

Best Practices for resume references 

1. don't use phrases like "reference available upon request".

While it might have a formal or professional ring, this phrase isn't useful. 

Typically, including "reference available upon request" is just as unnecessary as including the references themselves. Both take up valuable space.

If a prospective employer makes it clear they want references early on, give them references. Don't just tell them you could provide that information.

2. Maintain relationships with your references

It's vital to maintain relationships with anyone you're using as a reference—and to let them know you've put their contact information on a job application.

Put yourself in the reference's shoes for a minute. 

Imagine you're a high-powered executive, senior manager, or academic advisor. Your cell phone rings, and you don't recognize the number. 

How often are you picking up that call?

Instead, you let it go to voicemail. Later, you check the voicemail and find out that someone at a company name you've never heard of is asking you for a reference for someone else you hardly remember. It's been years since you were in contact with the candidate.

How strong of a reference would you give—or would you even call the recruiter back?

Here's the point: Your reference is only valuable if they give a good impression of you. If they don't respond to the recruiter or sound baffled, then the reference is doing more damage than if you hadn't given one at all.

3. Limit references to 3-5 contacts

How many references do you need? No recruiter wants to get hit with a list of references that rivals the company directory in length. And the more you include, the harder it will be to keep those relationships current.

Consider three references to be the minimum number of references. Usually, somewhere around three to five separate references is an ideal number.

4. Use a dedicated resume reference page

If you're including references with your resume (because the job posting explicitly calls for them), make them stand out by placing them on a dedicated separate document or reference sheet.

This way, if your second page gets lost or overlooked, you'll still be giving the recruiter everything essential. When they ask about the missing references, you can point out the second page.

Keeping your references on a separate page also makes it easier for people to handle and share your resume. If they don't care about references, they can simply ignore them. 

Keep track of references and streamline your job search

Gathering the right set of professional references is an important step in the job search journey. 

Storing their contact information in one easy-to-access location like the Teal Contacts Tracker is convenient and efficient because it ensures that you're organized, reduces the risk of misplacing crucial details, and allows quick retrieval when tailoring applications or responding to potential employers.

This centralized approach can expedite the hiring process (and leave a positive impression on hiring managers!).

And just like an organized reference system can elevate your professional image and streamline the application process, a well-crafted resume is also a key piece in showcasing your expertise and fit for a role.

Teal is an end-to-end career growth platform with a built-in AI Resume Builder and Job Application Tracker so you can create a resume that stands out from the rest—one you can easily tailor to custom-fit—every time you hit apply.

Ready to streamline your professional contacts and get one step closer to that dream job? Sign up for your free Teal account today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should you include references on a resume.

References should not be added on a resume unless they're requested. If they're required or requested, make sure to include: 

• Title and organization
• Phone number
• Email address
• Relationship
• One sentence about that relationship or person

Want to save time digging through cell phone contacts? Store all of your references in one place with Teal. Sign up, it's free ! 

How do you list references?

If asked for references, list them on a separate document. Provide each reference's name, title, organization, phone number, email address, your relationship, and a brief statement about that relationship.

Store all of these details in in one place with Teal. Sign up, it's free ! 

What should you do if you don't include references on your resume?

If you opt not to include references on your resume, be prepared to provide them during the interview process or when the employer requests them.

Want to save time digging through email addresses and phone numbers? Store all of your references in one place with Teal. Sign up, it's free ! 

Kayte Grady

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We help you find the career dream.

Cover Letter & References Examples

Cover letter & reference examples.

Get started on your cover letter and reference page materials using these examples to apply tips on formatting, structure, and content.

Cover Letter Example

References Example

Who could you ask to be a reference? Professional references include people who can attest to your skills and qualifications. Consider using a current supervisor, past employer, colleague, instructor, coach, or advisor.

How to Write a Resume, Cover Letter & List of References

Three documents you'll need when conducting a job search are a resume, cover letter and list of references. Each document has a specific purpose. You can prepare them yourself, using formatting guidelines you find online from resources such as the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) or an employment website.

Writing Your Resume

The purpose of a resume is not to get you a job, but to get you a job interview. A strong resume will capture the attention of a hiring manager, highlighting your skills and qualifications and demonstrating why you would be a good candidate for hire.

There are basically two types of resume formats: chronological and functional. Consider drafting both types of resumes, then choose the one that you feel best represents what you have to offer prospective employers. HR Dive reports that recruiters look at a resume for an average of 7 seconds before deciding whether to read further. Limit your resume to a single page if you can, focusing on your most relevant experience and skills.

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How to present yourself on a job application, medical records resume samples, how to create a guerrilla resume that stands out, how to match qualifications to a job description in a resume, how to format business references, chronological vs. functional resume.

As explained by the employment website Indeed, the chronological resume lists your work experience, beginning with the most recent and typically going back no more than 10 years. The chronological format is easy for employers to read. It is best suited to job candidates who have a consistent work history and can demonstrate increasing responsibility over time.

The functional resume, as defined by the employment website Monster, uses a skills-based format. In a functional resume, you group important skills into categories to demonstrate your expertise. It's a format best used by those who do not have much experience, who have a gap in their work history or who have had a series of short-term, unrelated jobs.

Quantify Your Achievements

Whether you choose a chronological or functional format, your resume is essentially your marketing document, which you're using to sell yourself to prospective employers. Don't just list your duties – that only tells what you were supposed to do, and not how well you did it. Instead of saying "responsible for," use action verbs. Quantify results whenever possible.

Here are some examples of resume statements using action verbs and outcomes:

• Implemented new filing system, increasing office efficiency by 10 percent.
• Earned Employee of the Month recognition 3 times in one year.

Visit the website of Oklahoma City University for more examples.

Introduce Yourself with a Cover Letter

When sending a resume via email or postal mail, use a cover letter to introduce yourself and to highlight the skills and experience you detail in your resume. As with the resume, tailor your cover letter to a specific employer or position rather than using a generic, one-size-fits-all approach. Greet the addressee by name instead of "Dear Sir or Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern."

Be sure you proofread your cover letter and your resume. Typos, spelling errors and grammar mistakes can immediately disqualify you in the mind of a hiring manager, no matter how strong your credentials are. Take the time to look over your documents. You may want to enlist the aid of a friend or trusted colleague.

List of References

A prospective employer will want to check references to verify items on your resume such as work history and education. References should not be included in a resume or cover letter but typewritten separately on a sheet of paper that you can give to a hiring manager when asked. Be sure to get permission first before listing someone as a reference. Include current contact information: name, job title, phone number and email address.

• Purdue Online Writing Lab: Sample Resumes
• Indeed: Chronological Resume Tips and Examples
• Monster: Resume Format Tips for Functional Resumes
• Oklahoma City University: Accomplishment Statements and Action Verbs
• HR Dive: Eye Tracking Study Shows Recruiters Look at Resumes for 7 Seconds
• Use 24-pound resume paper for your application materials -- it gives your resume, cover letter and references list a professional appearance.
• Fragmented sentences are acceptable for a resume. Insert action verbs wherever appropriate for maximum impact.
• Prepare electronic and hard copy versions of your resume.

Denise Dayton, M.Ed., M.S., is a writer whose work has appeared in national publications in print and online. A Certified Master Gardener, she has gotten her hands dirty in the Midwest, the Deep South and way out West. She currently lives and gardens in New England.

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Types of cover letters: a complete guide

A cover letter introduces you to potential employers, highlighting your suitability for the role. Getting it right can make a strong first impression, differentiate you from other candidates, and increase your chances of securing an interview.

Taralika crafts compelling narratives that illuminate modern hiring practices and HR technology trends.

A cover letter accompanies a candidate’s resume when applying for a job. It is a personal introduction to the hiring manager, highlighting relevant skills, experiences, and reasons for applying.

Unlike a resume, which provides a structured overview of the career history, a cover letter offers a narrative that can showcase a candidate’s personality and passion for the role. 

74% of recruitment decision-makers prefer to receive job applications that include cover letters apart from CVs. According to their findings, good cover letter examples are highly valued by employers, with many considering them crucial for explaining career objectives, motivations, and employment gaps.

Even if a cover letter is optional, over 75% of recruiters tend to give preference to candidates who attach a cover letter in the correct format along with their resume.

Types of cover letters

Before writing a cover letter, it is vital to go through the various types of cover letters accepted by different organizations, each catering to a different role or purpose: – 

• Application cover letter

The application cover letter responds to a specific job posting. It should be a basic cover letter tailored to the job description, highlighting how the candidate’s qualifications match the requirements. Using this letter can expand on the achievements listed in the resume and explain the person’s motivation for applying. 

• Prospecting cover letter

Also known as a cold-contact letter, a prospecting cover letter is used when you want to inquire about potential job openings at a company. This type of letter demonstrates a proactive approach and interest in the organization, even if there are no current vacancies. 

• Networking cover letter 

A networking cover letter is sent to contacts within the professional network to ask for job search advice or referrals. It’s a great way to leverage connections and uncover hidden job opportunities. The letter should mention the mutual contact and explain the candidate’s job search goals.

• Career change cover letter

If an individual is transitioning into a new career, a career change cover letter is perfect for them! It is a short cover letter highlighting examples from experiences in the current role and how they make a suitable candidate for the new role. This letter should also explain the reasons for the career shift and highlight any transferable skills.

• Referral cover letter

When someone within an organization refers a colleague for a position, it is generally in the form of a referral cover letter. Mentioning the referrer in your letter can immediately capture the hiring manager’s attention and add credibility to your application. 

• No experience cover letter 

A no experience cover letter is for those who lack direct work experience in the job they are applying for. An ideal no experience cover letter will contain examples emphasizing the candidate’s enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and any relevant skills or coursework that can compensate for the lack of professional experience.

Cover letter examples 

Checking out a few good cover letter examples is a great way to get a head start towards crafting the perfect cover letter. 

Also read: Top 3 Cover Letter Template Samples .

The cover letter examples for a job provide a clear understanding of how to format and phrase cover letters for different scenarios.

Tips for writing a good cover letter

According to the Business and Professional Communication Quarterly , 56% of employers prefer cover letters with job applications. Here are some useful tips on how to type a cover letter that will help you stand out amongst others:

Customize each letter

Statutory warning – generic cover letters are easily spotted and often disregarded! Tailor the cover letter to the specific job and company. While it may be cool to generate cover letter formats through an AI tool, it is crucial to personalize and write the main content of the cover letter. 

Use a professional format

Follow a standard cover letter format with your contact information, the employer’s contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. 

Be concise and focused

Keep your letter to one page and avoid unnecessary details. Stick to relevant points that highlight your suitability for the job. Workable has a list of short cover letter examples that you can check out here . 

Showcase your achievements

Unlike a resume, a cover letter has examples from a person’s real life, showcasing key abilities and accomplishments and how they’re suitable for the job. 

Also read : Rise above the crowds: how to stand out in a crowded market

Include a strong introduction

Your cover letter introduction should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to learn more about you. 

Proofread thoroughly

Ensure no grammatical or spelling errors. A clean error-free letter shows your attention to detail and professionalism.

A well-written cover letter can significantly boost a candidate’s chances of landing a job interview. 

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