A job references page is a major component of any job search process.
It is advisable to create a separate page on a resume and include a list of references only if the list is impressive and contains individuals such as CEOs, high-level executives, professors, famous politicians, etc.
Otherwise, one should be prepared to provide their references list upon request during a job interview.
The Importance of Employment References in Your Job Search
Professional references or employment references are a critical part of a job application, and it is best to have a well-prepared list of references available in advance.
A well-prepared list of references can make a significant impact on your future career when an employer asks for references.
Including the phrase “References available upon request” in your resume is optional.
However, it is recommended to avoid using this phrase as it is unnecessary. It is evident that you will provide the references list if the employer expresses interest.
This article provides guidance on professional references on resumes, including how to write references and examples of job references. It also discusses the format of the reference sheet and how to write a job reference.
Crafting a Strong Job References List
Writing Job References – Information
- How should you list references on a Resume?
- How many references to include?
- What is the standard?
As a ‘rule of thumb’:
- Do not give too many references. If you have many, select 2 to 4 of the best – Select three to four of your best references.
- List your best professional references: Choose people whom you have worked with in your professional past, such as: managers, supervisors, customers and even colleagues.
- List only professional references and not personal references.
- To list your references, create a separate page – the References Page.
This page can be part of the resume coming after the other resume essentials.
You can also keep it apart, until an employer asks for it or until you get an interview.
About “References available upon request:”
You can use this phrase in your resume if you are a relative beginner and perhaps have little work history which would speak for itself.
Otherwise, it may be a bit redundant.
How to Choose and Contact Your Professional References.
- Prepare a list of potential references.
Make sure you contact your references and ask for permission to include them on your list. - Tell them about the positions you are applying for.
- Send them your resume – highlight your skills, qualifications, and objectives.
- Keep them updated on your job search.
- Give them some preparation time prior to the phone call from an employer.
Employment References Format: Best Practices
- Write the references on a single separate page.
- Title it “List of References”, or “Professional References”, etc.
- Include your personal and contact information if you keep the list apart from the resume.
- Use a standard font and font size: Times New Roman, size 12.
Resume Reference Page: Dos and Don’ts
Double Check your References.
Don’t Forget:
- Contact your references to ask to include them in the list. Do this sometime in advance of handing out references to recruiters.
- Provide your past employers with an updated resume/CV and your current professional objectives. This will help them give the best feedback about you.
- After they agree, it’s a good idea to ask them what they plan to say, to make sure you want their reference at all.
Choose Carefully and Double Check:
- Once you have compiled your list of employment references, review it to make sure all contact information is correct.
- Choose your references carefully.
Your choice depends on each position you apply for. Make a logical choice. Often it will be best to choose only those that are relevant to the position you seek. - Sometimes, however, a reference is less relevant technically, but is so impressive, or speaks so much about your enthusiasm, creativity, responsibility, etc. that it is better to include than a strictly technical one.
How to Format Your Job References for Maximum Impact
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The job references format is a simple layout –
- A separate page
- Microsoft Word document
- One single paper – a separate piece of paper
- Letterhead that includes your contact details – in case it gets separated from your resume.
- Entitle this page – “Professional References list” or “List of References”.
- Standard fonts, font size – 12
For each reference, include:
- Bold: Reference name, company, their job title/position
- City, State, Country
- Office Phone number: with the area code
- Cell Phone number
- Email address
Then, go ahead to the next reference, examples are listed below.
Examples of Successful Job References and How to List Them
Below is a sample template for a job reference list:
Moshe Levi, “contact details.”
List each reference entry this way:
Professional References List
Barack Obama, US Gov, President
Washington, USA
Office: 324-534-3245
Cell: 111-552-1111
Email: xxx
David Cohen, Google, CEO
New York, NY USA
Office: 324-444-3245
Cell: 312-554-1234
Email: xxx
Bill Gates, Microsoft, CEO
Chicago, IL USA
Office: 388-522-3785
Cell: 123-577-1871
Email: xxx
Professional References List – Template
In bold: name, company name, and title of the person
Address (city, state, USA)
Office number + area code
Cell phone
Email address
In bold: name, company name, and title of the person
Address (city, state, USA)
Office number + area code
Cell phone
Email address