How and when to include references on a resume

Listing references on a resume — though generally a no-no these days — can give you a competitive edge under the right circumstances. In network-focused industries, or when specifically requested to do so, listing references on a resume can be the key to getting an interview. In this chapter we will dive into references on a resume to examine: 

• Different scenarios when you should list references on a resume
• Different scenarios when you shouldn’t list references on a resume
• How to list references on your resume
• How to prepare your references

Situations when you should or shouldn’t list references on a resume.

✅ YES: References are requested in the job posting

Here’s one lesson from middle school that still rings true: read the directions. Employers often include specific requirements in their job postings to ensure that applicants spent quality time reading through their posting. If the job posting asks to include a certain number of references on a resume, this is an appropriate opportunity to include them on your resume. A strong network is clearly influencing their decision, so you want to make the info as accessible as possible.

❌ NO: You are new to the field

If the job posting does not specifically ask for references and you’re new to the field, don’t make your network the highlight of your resume. Breaking into a new business or jumping in after school could mean that you have an underdeveloped circle of well-known people in the industry. A network will surely come with time, but if the references on your resumes aren’t directly connected to the company or a striking name from the field, save them until requested.

✅ YES: You have space for references on a resume

Let’s say your dream employer requests references, but your one-page resume is already packed and busy with important information. If there isn’t anything you can leave off, include your references in a cover letter or application email. If you do have space — perhaps from some creative formatting — make it work. The margins are a great location for this type of additional content. References on a resume should not be the reason your resume leaps onto a second page or looks overcrowded.

❌ NO: Fewer than three references

Three professional references are the general rule of thumb. Less than this and it may seem you have little experience or don’t have the standard number of willing references. Unless you are directly asked for only one or two references, plan to include at least 3 references. These connections should be able to tell your potential boss how you’ll respond to the challenges of the position. Again, make sure to read the job posting instructions — if they only ask for two references on a resume, then two is great — but otherwise, foster a list of at least three trusted former colleagues or mentors to make it on the resume.

✅ YES: Your network got you the interview

If someone in your network specifically reached out after having referred you to the employer, include their name and information in a clear spot. Even if your connection alerted the hiring manager of your resume on the way, the chaos of the hiring process and disconnected departments can always benefit from soft reminders.

❌ NO: You haven’t asked your references yet

Before you list contact information for the references on your resume, you should always ask your references for permission first. Not only is this a common courtesy, but it prevents a confused or unhelpful reference call. Even if your old boss adored working with you, they may not put you in the best light if they were caught off guard with a sudden phone call. A prepared reference will also show your potential employer that you took the time to chat with them beforehand. Ask your references for permission via phone or email — or in person if you can — by presenting how excited you are about your new job hunt. Showing this enthusiasm will get you a reference tailored to the job itself. Be sure to personally thank your reference for taking the time to help you in this crucial way. Oftentimes a potential employer will tell you during the hiring process that it is time for the reference check, which is a good opportunity to reach out to your references again to make sure you and your new potential job are top of mind.

✅ YES: Reference on the resume is an industry leader

Know someone or worked with someone who has name recognition? If your reference is a highly respected leader in your industry — and they’ve agreed to act as a reference ahead of time — this could make your resume shine. Save this instance for incredibly specific situations, such as knowing the founder of an industry-changing product or a household name within your field.

❌ NO: If you could justify it somewhere else

In some situations, listing required references on your resume is your only option. For example, if the company accepts applications through an online portal and your resume is the only attachable document, it may be worth using all the space you have. If you’re unsure if you fit the other categories above and there is somewhere else they could go — cover letter or within an application email for example— free up the resume space for something else. Often hiring managers will only ask for references after an interview has gone well, so no need to waste the space up front.

✅YES: Your field depends on reference

One last justification for adding references on a resume is understanding your industry and its relation to its own network. Knowing the right people in a creative field may showcase your ability to bring in new clients or connect with top-level professionals in your field. Specific tech-focused industries have been found to be the most network-dependent fields as well as working in politics, venture capitalism, and management consulting.

How to list references on a resume

If you do fit into one of these “YES” categories and you’re ready to include references on a resume, depending on your resume layout, always include the following information: Name Title and company Phone number Email Choosing the right resume template and format is critical. Writing your resume , including references, in an easy-to-read format should help you stand out enough to land an interview. When references make the cut, they’re often listed at the bottom of the resume. Though they can impress the reader, this is the icing on the cake after your experience, skills, and education. Who you know can be that final push to get you in the door. Never be afraid to leverage your network, even if you find advocating for yourself a bit uncomfortable.