Last updated on Jul 7, 2024

Here's how you can manage references on a resume.

Managing references on a resume is a crucial step in your job application process. When done correctly, it can significantly enhance your chances of landing the job. References can vouch for your skills, work ethic, and experience, providing potential employers with a credible source of information about your professional background. In this article, you'll discover how to select the right references, format them appropriately, maintain their relevance, communicate with them effectively, and handle the delicate matter of references if you're currently employed. By mastering the art of managing references, you'll present a stronger, more compelling case to hiring managers.

1 Choose Wisely

When selecting references, think about who can speak positively and accurately about your professional capabilities. Choose former supervisors, colleagues, or clients who have directly observed your work and can provide specific examples of your achievements. It's important to pick individuals who can articulate your strengths and are aware of the job you're applying for. Remember, quality trumps quantity; a few strong references are better than several lukewarm ones.

Add your perspective

Betania Scarponetti

Tu Partner en tu búsqueda de empleo | 🎯Experta en empleabilidad | 💡Asesorías integrales/CV de impacto | ✔Cientos de clientes satisfechos a nivel LATAM | 🥇LinkedIn TOP VOICE 2020 | Head Hunter | +295K⭐
Report contribution
No pongas referencias en tu CV. A fin de cuentas, es información confidencial y no sabes a manos de que persona puede llegar tu CV. Las referencias debes darlas cuando ya te encuentra participando en el proceso de selección.

Translated

Like

Unhelpful
Christos Charalambous

HR & Recruitment Team Leader at HR Innovate | TA Expert 🧑🏼🚀🚀
Report contribution
Select references who can vouch for your skills, work ethic, and character. These should be people you have worked closely with, such as supervisors, colleagues, or mentors. "I chose references who have seen my work first-hand and can speak to my strengths, like my former manager who can discuss my project management skills."

Like

Unhelpful

2 Format Right

Your references should be formatted consistently and professionally on a separate document from your resume. Include their full name, current title, company, phone number, and email address. Ensure the layout matches your resume for a cohesive look. This separate references page should only be provided upon request, not with the initial application materials, unless the job posting specifically asks for it.

Add your perspective

Md. Mushahid Ali

Director General at Mushahid Aero
(edited)
Report contribution
Details of referral Referencing should be more clear. If you add a different paper for referencing, you can be note down the referrals relationship with your job perspectives or your candidacy. In this case you must be acknowledged the data of your referral person's from him.

Like

Unhelpful

3 Keep Updated

Ensure that your references are current and relevant to the position you're applying for. Regularly update their contact information and touch base with them to keep the relationship warm. If you've gained new experience or skills since they last worked with you, let them know so they can speak to these developments if contacted by a potential employer.

Add your perspective

Christos Charalambous

HR & Recruitment Team Leader at HR Innovate | TA Expert 🧑🏼🚀🚀
Report contribution
Make sure your references are aware that you are using them as a reference and that their contact information is current. "I regularly check in with my references to ensure their contact details are up-to-date and to inform them about my job search progress."

Like

Unhelpful

4 Communicate Clearly

Before listing someone as a reference, always ask for their permission. Explain the role you're applying for and why you think they would be an excellent reference for you. Provide them with a copy of your resume and the job description so they can tailor their recommendation to the position. Clear communication helps your references prepare for potential calls or emails from employers.

Add your perspective

Christos Charalambous

HR & Recruitment Team Leader at HR Innovate | TA Expert 🧑🏼🚀🚀
Report contribution
Inform your references about the job you are applying for and what skills or experiences you’d like them to highlight. This ensures they are prepared if contacted. Always send your references a copy of the job description and a brief note about what aspects of your work they might highlight to align with the job you are applying for.

Like

Unhelpful

5 Navigate Employment

If you're currently employed and job searching discreetly, managing references can be tricky. You may not want to list your current employer as a reference for obvious reasons. Instead, use former supervisors or colleagues who are not associated with your current employer. Be explicit with your references about your need for confidentiality during your job search.

Add your perspective

6 Use Tactfully

Only provide references when requested by an employer, typically after an interview. When the moment comes, inform your references that they might be contacted, providing them with details about the company and position. This heads-up allows them to prepare and ensures they aren't caught off guard, which can reflect positively on you.

Add your perspective

Christos Charalambous

HR & Recruitment Team Leader at HR Innovate | TA Expert 🧑🏼🚀🚀
Report contribution
Use references strategically, especially when it comes to roles that require specific endorsements. Tailor your list of references to the job you are applying for. Select references that best match the requirements of the job you are applying for. For a leadership role, you might want to choose a reference who can speak to your management skills.

Like

Unhelpful

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

Here's how you can manage references on a resume.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Choose Wisely

2 Format Right

3 Keep Updated

4 Communicate Clearly

5 Navigate Employment

6 Use Tactfully

7 Here’s what else to consider

Resume Writing

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Resume Writing

More relevant reading

Here's how you can manage references on a resume.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Choose Wisely

2 Format Right

3 Keep Updated

4 Communicate Clearly

5 Navigate Employment

6 Use Tactfully

7 Here’s what else to consider

Resume Writing

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills