Remember that job you had a while back? You left on good terms, and your manager even said you could use them as a reference. That was years ago — is it time to take them up on that offer?
You could list your office bestie. But do you want to risk your boss catching wind of your job search? It’s also tempting to ask your friend to put on their best managerial act. But what happens if the hiring manager throws them a curveball? You don’t want to jeopardize losing that dream job.
And after all that — do you even need to put references on a resume?
Keep reading to find out. This post will show you:
- If you need to include resume references for a job.
- How to list professional references on your resume.
- Reference examples and tips on who to include.
What Are References on a Resume?
Resume references are people who can vouch for you professionally or personally. These include past bosses, colleagues, teachers, or even mentors who can talk about your skills, professional background, and what kind of person you are.
People used to list their references directly on their resumes. But nowadays, with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and the sheer number of applicants for most jobs, it’s better to use that valuable resume space to highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments.
Employers don’t need references upfront. They usually ask for them after they’ve interviewed you and are seriously considering moving forward. At that point, they want to fact-check all the great things you said about yourself during the interview. Moral of the story: Don’t over-embellish in your interview (it could backfire).
Here’s a breakdown of what to include in your resume reference:
Michael Thompson
Regional Sales Manager
Apex Marketing Group
456 Market St, Suite 100
Chicago, IL 60601
(555) 123-4567
[email protected]
Michael was my mentor at Apex Marketing, where I developed my sales strategy and client relationship skills.
Do You Put References on a Resume?
The short answer? No, you don’t include references on your resume.
Most hiring managers are too busy to sift through references for every applicant right away. Their priority is narrowing down candidates based on their resumes by scanning their experiences, skills, and fit for the role.
Many resumes won’t even reach an actual human if filtered out through ATS scanners. So, leave references off unless a job listing specifically asks you to include them in your resume (I wouldn’t count on it).
But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have references ready to go. Just avoid saying “References available upon request”. It’s an old-fashioned phrase, and hiring managers likely already assume you'll provide if they ask for them.
If an employer wants your references, they’ll usually ask for them during the interview process, or even later when they’re considering making you an offer. Until then, your resume should focus on selling you and your qualifications, not your references.
In the rare case that the job description says to include references on the resume, go ahead and follow those instructions. Otherwise, keep that information in a separate document and only send it when requested.
How to List References on a Resume Document?
So you don’t need to put references directly on your resume, but it’s still smart to have them on standby. So, where do they go? The best move is to create a separate reference document you can send over when the interviewer asks.
Even though it’s a separate file, it still needs to look as polished and professional as your resume and cover letter. And yes, that comes with some rules. Hint: listing people who’ve never actually seen you work (like your sibling) isn’t one of them.
Check out these five tips for writing your resume references.
1. Consider who to list as a reference
Think about people who can vouch for your professional strengths. Check your network and pick those who’ve seen you in action — whether at work, school, or any other setting where you’ve shown what you can do. It’s smart to have a variety of references ready, so you can select the ones that best fit the job you’re applying for.
You should also tailor your references to match your career level. Aim for 2 to 3 solid references if you’re just starting out. For more senior roles, you can choose up to 7, since employers may want a broader view of your experience.
Remember: quality over quantity. Pick people who will give specific, positive examples of your work ethic, skills, and character.
Drawing a blank? Here are some examples of people you can reach out to:
- Former manager
- Colleague
- Mentor
- Professor/instructor
- Project lead
- Client
- Vendor/supplier
- Former internship supervisor
- Team leader
- Volunteer coordinator
2. Ask your references for permission
Always ask your references for permission before you list them. It’s not just polite — it gives them a heads-up that someone may reach out to ask about you. You don’t want them mistaking your potential boss for a spammer and hanging up (or worse).
And if you’re applying to a bunch of jobs, you don’t want your references getting hit with surprise calls left, right, and center. Giving them advance notice ensures they’re prepped and ready to sing your praises when needed.
It’s also a good idea to send them a copy of your resume so they know what you’re highlighting and can back it up with examples. Maybe even ask them to focus on a particular project or skill set when they speak about you.
Lastly, double-check their contact details and make sure they’re cool with you sharing that information. Don’t hand out their phone number or email without permission, and skip sharing personal details like their home address.
Not sure how to reach out? Find out more: How to Ask for a Reference
3. Create a resume reference document
Your resume is about showing off your skills and experiences — not listing random names and phone numbers. Instead of cramming your references onto your resume, keep them in a separate file that matches the formatting of your resume.
If a hiring manager asks for references, you can send them over quickly without scrambling to put one together. It’s best to save the document as a PDF, so it looks consistent no matter who opens it. A Word or Google Doc document works too, just make sure it’s clean and easy to open.
4. Include reference contact information and details
When providing references, make sure you include just the right amount of information — enough for the hiring manager to contact them easily, but not so much that you’re oversharing.
Here’s what you should include for each reference:
- First and last name
- Professional title (their current role)
- Company name (where they work)
- Business address (optional, but include city, state, and zip)
- Phone number
- Email address
Stick to the basics, and avoid adding personal details like home addresses or personal email addresses unless your reference specifically gives you the green light. Most people like to keep their personal information under wraps, so you don’t want to accidentally overshare.
You can also throw in a quick description to explain who each reference is and how you’re connected. Let’s say your boss wants to hear more about those customer service skills you raved about during the interview. With a short blurb about each reference, they can easily pick the one best suited to give more context for that specific skill.
5. Choose the right resume reference format and order
Having a clean format isn’t limited to your resume and cover letter. Even at the interview stages, you’re still trying to make a strong first impression — don’t slip up at the last hurdle.
Always put your best reference at the top. This should be someone who knows your work well and can give you a glowing recommendation. Employers are busy, and they might only call the first one or two people on your list, so don’t bury your best reference at the bottom.
And don’t forget — your reference page should look like it’s part of the same package as your resume and cover letter. Use the same professional font, layout, and style. Consistency shows you’re detail-oriented, which always scores points.
Need help structuring your resume? Use our free Rezi AI Resume Builder to generate and organize your resume in minutes.
Who to Put as References on Resume?
I know it’s tempting to ask your friend to play the role of your old coworker Pam — but it’s a risky move. You never know what kind of questions the hiring manager might throw at ‘Pam,’ and one slip-up could ruin your chances. The good news? You’ve probably got more options than you think.
Choose people who really know your skills and can vouch for your work ethic.
If you’re a student or recent grad without much work experience, your references could be professors, guidance counselors, mentors, or career advisors. They can speak to your academic achievements and your personal strengths.
Are you further along in your career? Aim for references that reflect your professional growth. This could be former bosses, colleagues, or someone you’ve worked with from another department. Even project supervisors from your advanced studies (like during your master’s or Ph.D.) are solid options.
For those in management roles, aim for a mix — someone who supervised you, a close colleague, or someone you mentored. This gives a complete view of your leadership and teamwork.
If you have a friend working at the company you’re applying to, that’s a bonus. They can speak to both your skills and your fit for the company culture. Just avoid asking friends from outside work — your potential boss doesn’t need to hear about your legendary bar crawl planning skills.
Choose people who know your abilities, are enthusiastic about supporting you, and can think fast when asked about your work. Make sure they’re trustworthy and will have your back when it counts.
Does your employer want to dig deeper? Take a look: How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation
Who should you not list as a reference?
When it comes to who not to list as a reference, the first rule is: don’t use family members. Yes, your mom is probably your biggest cheerleader — but employers need someone less biased who can speak to your skills in a professional setting.
Avoid listing current coworkers unless you really trust them — you don’t want your current employer to know you’re job hunting. If you’re keeping things low-key, asking a colleague for a reference could backfire if word spreads around the office.
And it goes without saying to steer clear of anyone you’ve had beef with at work. The time you accidentally ate your colleague’s snack? Well, that grudge could still be alive and kicking.
You want your references to speak positively about you, so don’t include anyone who might have mixed feelings.
Resume References Examples
Deciding on the right references is about choosing people who can back up your strengths, but this can change as your career progresses. Going for a management position? Employers probably want to learn more about your leadership skills, not how much fun you were to work with at your very first job.
Here are some examples of resume references tailored to different career stages: student, mid-level position, and senior position.
Student reference examples
If you’re still in school or just graduated, you might not have tons of work experience yet, but there are still people who can vouch for your skills and dedication.
- Professors or instructors: They can speak to your academic skills and dedication to your studies.
- Advisors or guidance counselors: They know you well and can discuss your goals and growth during your time at school.
- Internship supervisors: If you’ve done any internships, your boss can provide insight into your work ethic and skills.
- Mentors: Someone who’s guided you in your career path can talk about your potential and drive.
Check out these student reference examples:
Sarah Johnson
Academic Advisor
University of California
123 College Ave, California, CA 62701
(213) 555-0123
[email protected]
Sarah guided me through my academic journey, helping me select courses and navigate university resources.
Tom Williams
Professor of Marketing
University of California
456 University Dr, California, CA 62702
(213) 555-0345
[email protected]
Tom taught my marketing courses and engaged me in hands-on projects that developed my analytical skills.
Emily Chen
Internship Coordinator
Tech Innovations Inc.
789 Business Rd, Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 555-0567
[email protected]
Emily oversaw my internship, providing valuable insights into professional practices in the tech industry.
Are you applying for jobs at college? Find out more: 10 of The Best Student Resume Examples
Mid-level reference examples
Have you been in the workforce for a few years and looking to move up? You’ll want references who can speak about your professional experience and skills that align with the job description.
- Former managers or supervisors: They can highlight your skills and contributions in past roles.
- Colleagues or peers: Someone you’ve worked closely with who can speak to your teamwork and collaboration.
- Clients or vendors: If you’ve worked with clients, they can vouch for your customer service and relationship-building skills.
- Project leaders: If you’ve led or been part of significant projects, a project leader can discuss your contributions and impact.
Here are some reference examples if you have years of experience under your belt:
John Smith
Senior Project Manager
Marketing Solutions LLC
321 Commerce Blvd, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 555-0789
[email protected]
John was my supervisor during several key projects, guiding my professional development and project management skills.
Lisa White
Marketing Assistant
Creative Agency
654 Design St, Chicago, IL 60617
(312) 555-0912
[email protected]
Lisa and I collaborated on multiple campaigns to focus on finding creative and innovative solutions through strong teamwork.
Kevin Brown
Operations
Global Logistics Inc.
987 Logistics Way, Chicago, IL 60618
(312) 555-0234
[email protected]
Kevin worked alongside me in optimizing operations and boosting efficiency under tight deadlines.
Senior reference examples
The best leaders are respected by their team — so yes, the opinions of others matter. You want references who can give the full picture and reveal that you have the right leadership skills for the job.
- Direct supervisors: Someone who has managed you can provide insights into your leadership style and decision-making.
- Colleagues: A peer at a similar level can talk about your ability to work collaboratively on projects.
- Board members or advisors: If you’ve interacted with board members or mentors in senior roles, they can discuss your vision and strategy.
- Cross-departmental leaders: Leaders from other departments who’ve worked with you can share how you navigate challenges.
Here are the types of references to include if you’re aiming for a senior position:
Dr. Angela Roberts
Vice President of Operations
Advanced Solutions Corp.
159 Corporate Park, New York, NY 10001
(212) 555-0432
[email protected]
Dr. Roberts and I collaborated on strategic initiatives that significantly improved company performance across departments.
Michael Green
Chief Financial Officer
Financial Dynamics Inc.
357 Finance St, New York, NY 10002
(212) 555-0654
[email protected]
Michael and I worked closely on financial strategies, such as budgeting and forecasting processes.
Rebecca Taylor
Director of Human Resources
Financial Dynamics Inc.
246 HR Blvd, New York, NY 10003
(212) 555-0789
[email protected]
I helped Rebecca develop employee engagement initiatives, focusing on enhancing workplace culture and team dynamics.
Summary
Here are the key things to keep in mind when including references on your resume:
- Create a separate reference sheet rather than including references directly on your resume.
- Choose references who can speak positively about your skills and experiences, preferably in a professional context.
- Always get your references’ permission before listing them, so they’re not caught off-guard by your potential employer.
- Match the style and format of your reference sheet to your resume for a cohesive look.
- Include only necessary contact information (name, title, company, phone, and email), and avoid sharing personal addresses.
- Aim for 3 to 5 strong references instead of a long list of everyone you’ve ever worked with. Each should be able to provide specific examples of your abilities.
- Keep your reference list current. If someone has moved jobs, or you’ve lost touch, replace them with someone who’s more relevant.
- Include references from different but relevant stages of your career to show a well-rounded view of your professional journey.
- Choose references who align with the specific job you’re applying for, emphasizing relevant experiences and skills.
FAQ
Where do you put references on a resume?
You don’t need to list references directly on your resume. Instead, keep it clean and professional by creating a separate reference sheet. This way, you can send it if the employer asks for references during the later interview stages.
Your reference document will be easiest to read as a downloaded PDF from Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Make sure the reference sheet matches the formatting of your resume and cover letter to keep everything looking cohesive.
How to send references for a resume?
You can attach your reference sheet as a separate document, like a PDF or Word file. However, only send it over if your employer specifically asks, as references are not required for many jobs. Before sending, always double-check that the contact details are accurate and that your references are aware they might be contacted.
How to list a friend as a reference?
Only list a friend if they’re someone who knows your work ethic or skills well — preferably someone you’ve worked with in a professional capacity. When you include them, treat them just like any other reference. Provide their name, current job title, company, phone number, and email address. Also, add a brief note about how you know each other, like if you worked on a project together or collaborated in a volunteer setting.
What to put for relationship on references?
When listing the relationship on your reference sheet, keep it straightforward. Just state your connection, like “Former Manager,” “Colleague,” or “Mentor.” If it’s a friend, you might say “Peer” or “Collaborated on Projects.”
The goal is to give potential employers a quick understanding of how this person knows you and your work. This context helps them gauge how relevant the reference is to the position you’re applying for.
How to make a reference sheet?
Start by using the same formatting and font as your resume and cover letter for a consistent look. Include your name and contact information at the top, followed by a list of references. For each one, write their name, professional title, company name, phone number, email address, and a brief description of your relationship. Make sure to proofread everything to avoid any typos or errors.
How many references should you have on a resume?
Typically, it’s good to have about 3 to 5 references ready to go. If you’re just starting out or applying for entry-level positions, 2 to 3 solid references are enough. For mid-level roles, aim for 3 to 4, while senior positions might call for 5 to 7. Just don’t fall into the trap of listing as many as possible. Choose references who can genuinely speak to your skills and experiences, so you can confidently provide the right people when asked.
