How to list references on your resume

References are a great way to back up the claims you make in your resume, and provide potential employers with proof of your skills.

But should you include references on your resume?

If so, how and why?

And if not, what else can you do to prove your abilities?

 

 

Should You Include References on Your Resume?

Generally, you don’t need to include references directly on your resume.

Employers won’t expect to see them right off the bat. They usually ask for references after an interview – and technically they aren’t really allowed to ask for them until they’ve offered you a job in Australia.

Plus, listing references can take up space you could use to showcase your skills and experience.

So, unless a job posting specifically asks for references, it’s best to leave them off your resume.

 

 

Resume templates 

 

When Is It OK to Include References on Your Resume?

There are times when it’s alright to include references on your resume.

If the job listing specifically asks for references to be included in your application, go ahead and add them.

Also, if you’ve got permission from your referees and they’re happy for you to share their details, it can be a nice touch, especially if they’re respected in your industry.

Just make sure they’re comfortable with it and ready to give you a glowing review.

 

How to Include References on Your Resume

If you need to include references, here’s how to format them without cluttering your resume.

 

 

Where to Include References on Your Resume

Pop your references at the bottom of your resume in the “Additional Info” section – this ensures that they don’t stop recruiters from seeing any of the important info in the important parts of your resume.

 

What to Include in a Reference

Here’s what you should include:

• Referee Name: Clearly state the full name of your referee.
• Referee Job Title: Mention their current job title.
• Referee Company/Employer: Note the name of the company or employer they are associated with.
• Referee Email Address: Provide a professional email address for contact.

 

It’s also a good idea to write a sentence which tells anybody reading the resume not to contact any of the referees without your permission.

 

 

Who Can You Use as a Reference in Your Resume?

Choosing the right people to be your referees is important.

You want people who can speak positively about your work, and who are respected iin their field. Good choices include former bosses, managers, or colleagues you’ve worked closely with.

Clients or business partners can also be great referees, you can also use school teacher or university lecturers if you are a junior candidate.

 

Examples of References on a Resume

Here are five examples of how to list references.

 

 

 

 

 

 

What to Do Instead of Including References on Your Resume

If you’re skipping references (which I recommend) here are a few ways to beef up your resume and back up your abilities.

 

Resume templates 

 

Show Your Reporting Lines in Your Jobs

One way to show the seniority of who you work with is to include the titles of the people you reported to in your previous roles.

For example, you could write, “Reported directly to the Chief Marketing Officer” or “Worked under the Sales Director”

This gives potential employers a better idea of the level you work at, and the type of colleagues you report to.

It subtly boosts your credibility without taking up much space.

 

 

Add Quantified Achievements to Your Jobs

Employers love to see hard evidence of your accomplishments.

Instead of just saying “Improved sales” try “Increased sales by 20% over six months.”

Or instead of “Managed a team,” you could say “Managed a team of 10, improving project delivery times by 15%.”

Numbers and specific results make your achievements more impressive and help your resume stand out.

 

 

Get Recommendations on Your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn recommendations are like mini-references that can really enhance your job search.

Ask colleagues, supervisors, or clients to write you a recommendation on LinkedIn, highlighting your skills and successes.

Then, add a link to your LinkedIn profile on your resume so employers can easily check out your profile and see these endorsements.

It’s a great way to add credibility and show you have a strong professional network – and it means that your references can be seen hundreds of time, without having to repeatedly pester the people providing the references.

 

 

How to ask for a Linked in recommendation

Copy and paste this template for a polite and friendly way of asking one of your connections for a recommendation.

 

 

Final thoughts

In summary, while including references on your resume isn’t usually necessary, knowing when and how to do it can make a difference.

Instead, focus on detailing your achievements, reporting lines, and LinkedIn recommendations to create a strong, comprehensive application that impresses potential employers.