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How to List References on a Resume

Do not put references on your resume, and do not write “references available upon request”. Keep a separate references page ready, with the same header, and send it when you are asked. The formatter builds that page.

  • Why references stay off the resume
  • Who to ask and what to tell them
  • A formatter for a ready-to-send references page

References page formatter

Use the same name and contact line as your resume. Ask each person first. Nothing you type leaves your browser.

Reference 1

Reference 2

Reference 3

References page

[Your name]
[Your contact line]

References

[Add at least one reference]

Should references go on a resume?

Usually not. A resume’s space is for your achievements, and employers expect to ask for references later in the process, so listing them early takes room you need and shares your contacts’ details with strangers. “References available upon request” is also unnecessary: everyone knows you can provide them.

The exception is when the posting or application form asks for references up front, or when the country or industry expects them (some public-sector, academic and international applications do). Follow the instructions you are given.

Who to ask

  • Three people who have seen your work: a recent manager, a colleague, and a client or project partner if you have one.
  • Recent and relevant. A reference who knows what you did in the last few years is worth more than a famous name.
  • Not family or friends. A character reference from outside work is only for when you have no work history.
  • If you are a student, a professor, a placement supervisor or a coach can do the job.

What to do before you give a name

  • Ask permission, every time, and check they are happy to speak well of you.
  • Send them the job description and your resume so they can speak to the right things.
  • Confirm the best phone number and email and the time of day they prefer.
  • Thank them, and tell them how it went.

What a references page looks like

A separate page that matches your resume’s header and font, titled “References”, with each person’s name, job title, company, how they know you, and phone and email.

Good: One reference
Priya Raman
Director of Operations, Northline Logistics
Former manager (2020–2024)
(555) 013-9921 · priya.raman@northline.example

Frequently asked questions

Should I include references on my resume?
No, unless the employer asks for them in the posting. Use the space for achievements, and send a separate references page when you are asked.
Should I write “references available upon request”?
There is no need. It takes a line you could use better, and employers assume you can provide references. Leave it out.
How many references do I need?
Three is the usual number, though some employers ask for two or for as many as four. Have at least three ready.
Who makes a good reference?
A recent manager, a colleague and a client or project partner who can speak to your work. Choose people who know your recent work and will say something specific.
Can I use a personal reference?
Only if you have no work history to draw on, such as a first job search after school. Then a teacher, coach or volunteer supervisor is better than a friend.
When do employers ask for references?
Usually near the end of the process, once you are a finalist. Have the page ready so you can send it quickly.

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