So, do references go on a resume? In most cases, they should not. Instead, prepare a separate page and provide it when the employer requests one. This guide explains who to choose, how to format the document, and when to send it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Should You Include References on Your Resume?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
In most cases, you should not include references directly on your resume. Employers typically request them later in the hiring process when they are ready to contact your chosen references. This is different from getting referred by an employee<\/a>, where someone within the company recommends you for a position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keeping them separate also gives your resume more room for information that directly supports your application. You can use that space for your skills, work history, education, certifications, and achievements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is especially relevant as, according to Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)<\/a>, 92% of employers conduct background checks as part of the hiring process. This makes accurate and credible candidate information an important part of hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You also do not need to add \u201cReferences available upon request\u201d at the bottom of your resume. This line takes up space without giving the hiring team useful information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, always follow the employer’s instructions. If a job posting asks for references with your application, provide them as requested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A list of references is a separate document that provides contact information for people who can discuss your skills, work history, or character.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A typical reference document includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also add a brief explanation of how you know the person. This gives the hiring team helpful context before they make contact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep every detail accurate and current. Before listing anyone, ask if they are comfortable serving as a reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Creating this document does not have to be difficult. Follow these steps to build a clear and useful list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Start with the employer’s instructions. A company may request a specific number of references. If no number is provided, three references can be a practical starting point for many job seekers. You can provide more if the employer asks for additional people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Try to include people who can offer different perspectives. For example, one person may discuss your leadership skills, while another can speak about your technical abilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Avoid listing several people who know you in the same professional capacity. A balanced list can give the employer a broader view of your experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose people who know your work well and can provide specific examples of your strengths. Former managers, supervisors, senior colleagues, clients, professors, and professional mentors may be suitable options. Your choice should depend on your experience and the position you want.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a recent graduate, a professor or internship supervisor may be a good choice. An experienced professional may prefer a former manager or senior colleague who can discuss their workplace performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Character references can also be useful in certain situations. They can speak about qualities such as reliability, responsibility, and integrity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Avoid using close family members or friends unless the employer specifically asks for a personal reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep the document separate from your resume unless the employer requests a combined file. A PDF is often a practical format because it helps preserve your layout across different devices. You can also use a clear file name, such as Alex_Morgan_References.pdf.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you submit your application through an online portal, follow its instructions for uploading supporting documents. For an email application, attach the document only if the employer requests it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep the design consistent with your resume. Use similar fonts, spacing, and contact details so your application looks organized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ask each person for permission before listing them. Contact them before you submit your application. Tell them about the role and explain why you believe they can speak about your experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also share your updated resume and the job description. This gives them useful context and helps them prepare for a possible call or email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A simple request could look like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n A reference page should be simple and easy to scan. Avoid adding unnecessary design elements or personal information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Place your name and contact details at the top. Then, list each person using the same format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A basic structure looks like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use the same structure for every entry. This makes the document easier to read.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You generally do not need to include a reference’s home address, age, or other private details. Focus on information that helps the employer identify and contact the person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here is an example of a completed reference page:<\/p>\n\n\n\n ALEX MORGAN Sarah supervised Alex for three years. She can discuss his communication, organization, and team coordination skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Daniel worked with Alex on several customer service projects. He can discuss Alex’s teamwork and problem-solving skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Emily has known Alex for several years. She can speak about his reliability, responsibility, and commitment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This example shows how you can organize different types of references while keeping the page clear and professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Different types of references can serve different purposes. Understanding these differences can help you select people who fit the position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Professional references can discuss your skills, performance, and workplace behavior. A former supervisor or manager is often a strong choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose someone who has seen your work firsthand. They should be able to provide specific examples instead of giving only general praise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Work references come from people who have worked with you directly. These may include coworkers, team leaders, supervisors, or clients. For example, a former coworker may discuss how you handled deadlines, supported team members, or solved workplace problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Character references focus on your personal qualities. They may discuss your reliability, integrity, communication, or sense of responsibility. These can be useful when you have limited professional experience. They may also be appropriate when an employer specifically requests one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A few simple mistakes can weaken an otherwise polished application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Select people who can provide specific and honest examples of your abilities. A person with limited knowledge of your work may struggle to give useful feedback.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check every phone number and email address before submitting the document. An incorrect detail can make it difficult for an employer to reach your reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Is a List of References?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n Marketing Manager, ABC Solutions<\/em>
\n Phone: 555-123-4567<\/em>
\n Email: maria.johnson@example.com<\/em>
\n Relationship: Former Direct Manager<\/em>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nHow to Write a Resume Reference List<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.jumpresumebuilder.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/How-to-Write-a-Resume-Reference-List-1024x512.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Determine How Many References to Include<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Select Your Resume References<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Decide How to Send Your Reference List<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Ask Your Contacts to Be a Reference<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to Format a Reference Page<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n Phone Number | Email Address | City, State
\n Reference Full Name
\n Job Title, Company Name
\n Phone: 555-123-4567
\n Email: name@example.com
\n Relationship: Former Supervisor\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nResume Reference Page Example<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
555-987-6543 | alex.morgan@example.com | Chicago, IL<\/p>\n\n\n\nProfessional Reference<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n Operations Manager, Northstar Logistics
\n Phone: 555-321-4567
\n Email: sarah.williams@example.com
\n Relationship: Former Direct Supervisor\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWork Reference<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n Senior Operations Coordinator, Westline Services
\n Phone: 555-654-3210
\n Email: daniel.lee@example.com
\n Relationship: Former Senior Colleague\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nCharacter Reference<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n Community Program Director, City Youth Center
\n Phone: 555-789-0123
\n Email: emily.carter@example.com
\n Relationship: Professional Mentor\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nChoosing the Right Resume Reference Type<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Professional References<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Work References<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Character References<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Common Reference Page Mistakes to Avoid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Choosing Someone Who Does Not Know Your Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Using Outdated Contact Details<\/h3>\n\n\n\n