Should You Put References on Your Resume? (2026 Guide)

One of the most common resume questions: should you list references on your resume, or just write “references available upon request”? The short answer for most job seekers in 2026: neither. Here’s what you should do instead—and when the rules change.

The Modern Rule: Skip References on Your Resume

For the vast majority of job applications, you should not include references on your resume. Here’s why:

• It wastes valuable space: Every line on your resume should sell your qualifications—references don’t do that
• Employers expect it: Hiring managers assume you have references; you don’t need to state the obvious
• References come later: Companies check references after interviews, not during initial screening
• Protects your contacts: Sharing names and phone numbers publicly exposes references to unwanted calls
• “Available upon request” is outdated: This phrase adds nothing and takes up space

Bottom line: Use that resume space to highlight achievements, skills, and experience that will get you the interview. References can wait.

When You SHOULD Include References

There are specific situations where references belong on your resume:

1. The Job Posting Explicitly Requests Them

If the application says “include three professional references,” do it. Ignoring instructions is an easy way to get rejected. Follow the posting exactly.

2. Academic or Research Positions

Academic CVs typically include references or letters of recommendation. This is standard practice for faculty positions, postdocs, and research roles.

3. Government or Security Clearance Jobs

Federal positions and jobs requiring security clearance often need references upfront as part of background check processes.

4. Senior Executive Roles

C-suite and board positions sometimes expect references from other executives or board members included with application materials.

5. Industry Norm in Your Field

Some industries (legal, medical, certain trades) have established norms around references. Research what’s standard in your specific field.

How to Format References (When Required)

If you do need to include references, here’s the proper format:

REFERENCES

Jane Smith
Senior Marketing Director, ABC Company
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: jane.smith@abccompany.com
Relationship: Direct supervisor (2021-2026)

John Davis
VP of Operations, XYZ Corporation
Phone: (555) 987-6543
Email: jdavis@xyzcorp.com
Relationship: Cross-functional partner

Include for each reference:

• Full name
• Current job title and company
• Phone number
• Email address
• Your professional relationship to them

Create a Separate Reference Sheet

The best practice is to prepare a standalone reference document that matches your resume’s design. Keep it ready to send immediately when employers request it.

Your reference sheet should include:

• Your name and contact information at the top (matching your resume header)
• 3-5 professional references with full contact details
• Brief context on your relationship with each reference
• The same fonts and formatting as your resume

Having this document ready shows you’re organized and prepared. When an employer asks for references, you can send it within minutes.

How Many References Do You Need?

Most employers expect 3-5 professional references. Here’s how to think about it:

• 3 references: Minimum for most positions
• 4-5 references: Ideal range—gives employers options if someone is unavailable
• 6+ references: Usually unnecessary; can appear as overcompensating

Quality matters more than quantity. Three strong references who can speak enthusiastically about your work beat five lukewarm ones.

Who Should Be Your References?

Choose references strategically based on their ability to speak to your qualifications:

Best Reference Choices

• Former managers/supervisors: They can speak to your work performance and growth
• Senior colleagues: Peers who worked closely with you on projects
• Clients or vendors: External contacts who experienced your professionalism
• Cross-functional partners: People from other departments you collaborated with
• Mentors: Professional mentors who know your capabilities

References to Avoid

• Family members: Obvious bias makes them ineffective
• Friends (unless professional): Personal friends who haven’t worked with you
• Current employer: Unless they know you’re job searching
• Anyone who might give lukewarm feedback: If you’re not sure they’ll be positive, don’t use them

For Students and Recent Graduates

No work experience? These references work well:

• Professors who know your work
• Internship supervisors
• Academic advisors
• Volunteer coordinators
• Club or organization advisors

How to Ask Someone to Be a Reference

Always ask permission before listing someone as a reference. Here’s how to do it right:

Step 1: Ask in Advance

Contact potential references before you start applying. This gives them time to prepare and ensures they’re willing.

Step 2: Be Specific

Tell them what types of roles you’re targeting and what skills you’d like them to highlight. This helps them prepare relevant talking points.

Step 3: Make It Easy

Send them your updated resume and a brief summary of achievements they can reference. Don’t make them guess what to say.

Step 4: Give Notice

When you’re in final interview stages, let your references know a call might be coming. Nobody likes being caught off guard.

Step 5: Say Thank You

Whether you get the job or not, thank your references for their time. A brief email or note goes a long way.

What Employers Actually Ask References

Understanding what employers ask can help you prepare your references:

• “How do you know the candidate and for how long?”
• “What were their primary responsibilities?”
• “What are their greatest strengths?”
• “What areas could they improve?”
• “Would you rehire them?” (most telling question)
• “How did they handle pressure or conflict?”
• “Is there anything else I should know?”

Coach your references on specific achievements they can mention. The more concrete examples they provide, the stronger their recommendation.

“References Available Upon Request” – Use It or Lose It?

Lose it. This phrase was standard decades ago but is now considered outdated filler. Hiring managers know you’ll provide references when asked—you don’t need to state it.

That resume line is better used for:

• An additional achievement
• A relevant skill
• A certification or credential
• White space (less clutter is good)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use LinkedIn recommendations instead of references?

LinkedIn recommendations can complement traditional references but don’t replace them. Employers still want to have direct conversations with people who know your work. However, strong LinkedIn endorsements do boost your profile’s credibility.

What if I don’t have professional references?

If you’re new to the workforce, use professors, internship supervisors, volunteer coordinators, or anyone who’s seen you work in a professional capacity. Even part-time job supervisors or coaches can work if they can speak to your work ethic.

Should I warn my references before each application?

Not for every application—that would be exhausting for them. But do give them a heads-up when you reach final interview stages and expect reference checks soon. A quick email saying “Company X may be calling this week” is sufficient.

Can I use the same references for every job?

Usually yes, but consider tailoring when possible. If you’re applying for a technical role, prioritize references who can speak to your technical abilities. For leadership positions, choose references who’ve seen you manage or lead.

What if a reference gives me a bad review?

Only list references you’re confident will speak positively about you. If you’re unsure, ask directly: “Do you feel you could give me a strong recommendation?” Their hesitation will tell you everything. It’s better to know upfront than be surprised.

How long are references valid?

References from the past 5-7 years are generally acceptable. Older references may not remember specifics about your work. Keep relationships warm by occasionally checking in with former managers—even just a LinkedIn message every year or two.

Reference Sheet Template

Need a professional reference sheet that matches your resume? StylingCV templates include matching reference page designs that keep your application materials consistent.

Key Takeaways

• Don’t include references on your resume unless specifically requested
• Skip “references available upon request”—it’s outdated and wastes space
• Prepare a separate reference sheet with 3-5 contacts ready to send
• Always ask permission before listing someone as a reference
• Choose references strategically based on the role you’re targeting
• Give references advance notice when a call is likely coming

Need more resume help? Check out our guides on listing skills effectively, resume examples by industry, and ATS-friendly resume templates.