References on Resume: Should You Include Them? (2026 Guide)

Should You Include References on Your Resume?

The short answer: No, you should not include references directly on your resume in 2026.

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This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of resume writing. While references are an important part of the hiring process, they don’t belong on your resume for several key reasons:

1. Space Constraints: Resume real estate is precious. Using valuable space for references means less room for your skills, experience, and achievements.

2. Timing: References are typically checked late in the hiring process, after you’ve already interviewed. Including them on your resume is premature.

3. Privacy: Your references’ contact information should be protected, not distributed with every application you submit.

4. Outdated Practice: The phrase “References available upon request” was once standard but is now considered unnecessary and dated.

5. Assumed Availability: Hiring managers assume you have references. You don’t need to state the obvious.

The Modern Approach to Resume References

Instead of including references on your resume, here’s the professional approach:

Step 1: Create a separate reference sheet with the same header as your resume (name, contact information, professional branding).

Step 2: List 3-5 professional references with their full contact details, current job title, company, and relationship to you.

Step 3: Keep this document ready to provide when requested—typically during or after the interview stage.

Step 4: Always ask permission from your references before listing them and give them a heads-up when a potential employer might contact them.

Step 5: Prepare your references by sharing the job description and reminding them of your key accomplishments they can speak to.

When References ARE Required on Your Resume

While rare, some situations do call for including references directly on your resume:

1. Job Posting Explicitly Requests It: If the application instructions say “include references with resume,” follow those directions.

2. Academic Positions: Some academic job postings require reference contact information upfront, especially for faculty positions.

3. Federal Government Applications: USAJobs applications sometimes require supervisor contact information for each position.

4. International Applications: Some countries expect references on CVs as standard practice.

5. Industry-Specific Norms: Certain fields like education or non-profit work may have different conventions.

Even in these cases, you’re often better off providing references on a separate page rather than cluttering your resume—unless specifically instructed otherwise.

What About “References Available Upon Request”?

This once-common phrase has become completely unnecessary in modern resumes. Here’s why you should remove it:

❌ It’s Redundant: Of course your references are available upon request. That’s assumed.

❌ It Wastes Space: That line could be used for an additional achievement or skill.

❌ It Looks Dated: Using this phrase signals you’re using outdated resume practices.

❌ It Adds No Value: It doesn’t differentiate you from other candidates or strengthen your application.

❌ It’s Obvious: Employers know how to request references if they want them.

Simply remove this line and use the space more effectively to showcase your qualifications.

How to Create a Professional Reference Sheet

When the time comes to provide references, here’s how to create a professional reference sheet:

Header (Match Your Resume)

Use the same header design and contact information from your resume for consistency and professional branding.

Title

Center the title “Professional References” or “References for [Your Name]” below your contact information.

Reference Details (For Each Person)

Include:

• Full name
• Current job title
• Company/organization
• Relationship to you (e.g., “Former Supervisor,” “Direct Manager,” “Client”)
• Phone number
• Email address
• Optional: LinkedIn profile URL

Example Reference Entry:

Sarah Johnson
Senior Marketing Director
Tech Innovations Inc.
Former Direct Supervisor (2020-2026)
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: sarah.johnson@techinnovations.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarahjohnson

Who Should You List as References?

Choose references strategically—they can make or break a job offer. Here’s who makes the best references:

✅ Excellent Reference Choices:

1. Direct Supervisors: Your most valuable references are managers who directly oversaw your work and can speak to your performance, skills, and work ethic.

2. Senior Colleagues: More experienced coworkers who collaborated with you on projects and can attest to your abilities and contributions.

3. Clients or Customers: For client-facing roles, a satisfied client who can speak to your professionalism and results is powerful.

4. Professors or Academic Advisors: For recent graduates or career changers, academics who know your work quality and potential.

5. Cross-Functional Partners: People from other departments who worked with you and can speak to your collaboration and communication skills.

6. Previous Direct Reports: For management positions, someone you supervised can speak to your leadership style (use sparingly).

❌ Poor Reference Choices:

Family Members or Friends: These references lack objectivity and professional credibility.

Coworkers at Your Current Company: Unless your current employer knows you’re job searching, this could jeopardize your position.

People Who Don’t Know Your Recent Work: References from 10+ years ago have limited value unless that person has seen your recent work.

People You Haven’t Spoken to in Years: Always reconnect and get permission before listing someone as a reference.

Anyone Who Might Give a Lukewarm Recommendation: A neutral reference is sometimes worse than a missing one.

Character References Only: Unless specifically requested, professional references carry more weight than personal character references.

How Many References Should You Have?

The standard is 3-5 professional references. Here’s why:

3 References Minimum: This gives employers multiple perspectives on your work. One reference might be unavailable or provide a single viewpoint.

5 References Maximum: More than five becomes excessive. Employers typically only contact 2-3 references anyway.

Quality Over Quantity: Three strong references who can speak specifically to your achievements beat five generic references who barely remember working with you.

Ideal Reference Mix:

• 2 recent direct supervisors (from last two positions)
• 1 senior colleague or cross-functional partner
• 1 client or external stakeholder (if applicable)
• 1 additional supervisor or colleague from earlier in your career

Reference Preparation: The Secret to Great Recommendations

Don’t just list references and hope for the best. Prepare them properly:

Before Listing Someone as a Reference:

1. Ask Permission: Never list someone without asking first. Send an email explaining the role and asking if they’re comfortable serving as a reference.

2. Confirm Current Contact Info: Verify their current phone number, email, and job title. Outdated information reflects poorly on you.

3. Assess Their Enthusiasm: If someone hesitates or seems lukewarm, thank them and find someone else. You want enthusiastic advocates.

4. Respect Their Time: Acknowledge that providing references takes time and express your appreciation.

When You’re Actively Interviewing:

1. Send a Heads-Up Email: Let your references know they might be contacted soon.

2. Share the Job Description: Help them tailor their recommendation by providing details about the role.

3. Remind Them of Key Accomplishments: Refresh their memory about specific projects or achievements they can mention.

4. Provide Context: Let them know what stage you’re at in the process and what the employer is likely looking for.

5. Thank Them: After they provide a reference, send a thank-you note. If you get the job, let them know and thank them again.

Sample Reference Preparation Email:

“Hi Sarah,

I hope you’re doing well! I’m currently interviewing for a Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company, and I was hoping you’d be willing to serve as a professional reference for me.

The role focuses heavily on digital campaign management and team leadership—two areas where we worked closely together during my time at ABC Corp. I’ve attached the job description for your reference.

If you’re comfortable serving as a reference, the hiring manager may contact you within the next week or two. I’d be happy to discuss the role in more detail or remind you of any specific projects you’d like to highlight.

Thank you so much for considering this—I really appreciate your support!

Best,
[Your Name]”

Reference Check: What Employers Actually Ask

Understanding what employers ask your references can help you prepare them better:

Common Reference Check Questions:

• “How do you know [candidate] and in what capacity did you work together?”
• “What were [candidate’s] primary responsibilities?”
• “What are [candidate’s] greatest strengths?”
• “What areas could [candidate] improve or develop?”
• “Can you describe [candidate’s] work style and how they collaborate with others?”
• “How does [candidate] handle pressure or tight deadlines?”
• “Would you rehire [candidate] if you had the opportunity?”
• “Is there anything else we should know about [candidate]?”

What References Can (and Can’t) Say

Many people believe references can only confirm employment dates and job title due to legal concerns. This is largely a myth.

References CAN legally discuss:

• Job performance and work quality
• Work habits and attendance
• Skills and qualifications
• Reasons for leaving (if they know)
• Whether they’d rehire you

References SHOULD NOT discuss:

• Protected class information (age, race, religion, etc.)
• False or defamatory statements
• Private medical information
• Unverified rumors or gossip

Most companies have policies limiting what current employees can say about former employees, which is why many only confirm employment dates and job title. However, personal references (people no longer with the company) can usually speak more freely.

References Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Keep a separate reference sheet: Don’t include references on your resume
• Choose people who know your work well: Recent supervisors and colleagues are ideal
• Ask permission before listing anyone: And ask again for each new job search
• Keep references informed: Let them know when they might be contacted
• Provide context: Share the job description and remind them of relevant accomplishments
• Verify contact information: Ensure all details are current and accurate
• Send thank-you notes: After they provide a reference, express your appreciation
• Offer to reciprocate: Be willing to serve as a reference for others
• Update your reference list: Refresh it for each new job search
• Have backup references: Keep 5-7 people in your network in case someone is unavailable

❌ DON’T:

• List references without permission: This is unprofessional and can backfire
• Use outdated contact information: Verify details before submitting
• Include “references available upon request”: This phrase is outdated and wastes space
• List only people from one company: Diversify your references across employers
• Assume references remember everything: Refresh their memory with specific examples
• List personal friends or family: Stick to professional references
• Provide references too early: Wait until requested, typically after initial interviews
• Forget to thank your references: They’re doing you a favor
• List current supervisor without their knowledge: Unless they know you’re job searching
• Use people who might give lukewarm recommendations: Enthusiastic references are crucial

Common Questions About Resume References

Q: What if I’m asked to provide references on the application itself?
A: Some online applications have required fields for references. In this case, include them as requested, but still keep them off your resume PDF.

Q: Should I tell my current employer I’m job searching so they can be a reference?
A: This is risky. Instead, use previous supervisors or note on your reference sheet “Current supervisor available upon offer” to indicate you haven’t told your current employer yet.

Q: What if I don’t have professional references?
A: Recent graduates can use professors, academic advisors, internship supervisors, or volunteer coordinators. Career changers can use professional contacts from any capacity—doesn’t have to be paid employment.

Q: Can I use a coworker as a reference?
A: Yes, but supervisors carry more weight. If you use coworkers, choose senior colleagues or people you worked closely with on significant projects.

Q: How recent should my references be?
A: Ideally, include at least 2 references from the past 3-5 years. One older reference is fine if they’re particularly strong.

Q: What if my previous employer has a “no reference” policy?
A: Use your direct supervisor’s personal contact information (with their permission) rather than going through HR. Many managers will provide personal references even when company policy restricts official references.

Q: Should I submit references with my application?
A: No, unless specifically requested. Wait until asked, which typically happens during or after interviews.

Q: Can I use someone I’m not connected with on LinkedIn as a reference?
A: You can, but it looks better if you’re connected. Send a connection request when you ask them to be a reference.

Q: What if a reference gives me a bad review?
A: This is why you should only list people who you know will speak positively about you. If you’re unsure, ask directly: “Do you feel comfortable providing a strong reference for me?”

Reference Alternatives and Professional Recommendations

LinkedIn Recommendations

LinkedIn recommendations serve as public references that employers can review before even contacting you. Request recommendations from:

• Current and former supervisors
• Colleagues and team members
• Clients or customers
• Direct reports (for management positions)

Aim for 3-5 LinkedIn recommendations, and offer to write recommendations for others in return.

Letters of Recommendation

More common in academia and some industries, letters of recommendation are formal written endorsements. Keep these on file but only submit them when requested.

Professional Portfolio

For creative roles, a portfolio of work samples can supplement traditional references by demonstrating your capabilities directly.

Performance Reviews

While not typically shared during the application process, positive performance reviews can be valuable if you make it to final interview stages.

Expert Tips for Managing References

1. Build Your Network Continuously: Don’t wait until you need references. Maintain relationships with former colleagues and supervisors throughout your career.

2. Keep a Reference Master List: Track potential references in a spreadsheet with current contact info, when you worked together, and what projects they could speak to.

3. Rotate References: Don’t overuse the same people. If you’re applying to multiple jobs, spread reference requests across your network.

4. Stay Connected: Periodically reach out to former supervisors and colleagues via LinkedIn or email, even when not job searching.

5. Document Your Achievements: Keep a running list of accomplishments with dates and metrics. This helps you prepare references with specific talking points.

6. Be a Good Reference Yourself: The best way to ensure others will help you is to help them. Offer to serve as a reference when appropriate.

7. Handle Bad References Proactively: If you left a job on bad terms, be prepared to address it. Consider using other references from that company or having a prepared explanation.

8. Consider Timing: Let references know about seasonal busy periods in your industry so you can time reference checks appropriately.

9. Use Technology: Tools like SkillSurvey, Checkster, or reference checking platforms automate the process and provide structure to reference feedback.

10. Follow Up After Hiring: Always let your references know the outcome of your job search and thank them for their support.

Create Your Complete Application Package

Understanding how to handle references professionally is just one piece of a successful job application. You also need a compelling, ATS-optimized resume that gets you to the interview stage in the first place.

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