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How to Write Job References on a Resume

References are people who can vouch for your work. On your resume, you usually do not list full reference details; you provide them when the employer asks.

Do I List References on My Resume?

In most cases, no. Do not put full names, phone numbers, and emails of references on the resume. Use "References available upon request" or omit the line entirely. Provide references when the employer asks, usually after an interview.

When to Provide References

When the employer asks (e.g., "Please provide 2–3 references"), send a separate document or email with names, titles, company, phone, and email. Ask your references for permission first and give them a heads-up that they may be contacted.

Who to Choose

Choose people who know your work: former managers, colleagues, or clients. Avoid family or friends unless they worked with you professionally. Make sure they are willing to speak positively and are reachable.

What to Say on the Resume

If you want to mention references at all, use one line: "References available upon request." No need for more. Save the actual list for when it is requested.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Should I put references on my resume?
    No. Do not list full reference details on the resume. Use "References available upon request" or omit. Provide references when the employer asks.
  • When do I give references?
    When the employer asks, usually after an interview. Send names, titles, company, phone, and email in a separate document or email.
  • Who should I use as references?
    People who know your work: former managers, colleagues, or clients. Ask permission first and choose people who will speak positively.
  • How many references do I need?
    Usually 2–3. Employers often ask for 2–3 professional references. Have them ready when requested.