While including a list of references directly on a resume is no longer common practice, job seekers should still prepare a separate document with contact information for professional references. This list typically includes three to five individuals who can attest to one’s skills, experience, and work ethic. A well-prepared reference list should include each individual’s name, title, current company, phone number, and email address. It’s also helpful to briefly note one’s relationship to each reference (e.g., former supervisor, colleague, client).
Having a readily available list of references demonstrates preparedness and professionalism. It signals to potential employers that candidates are organized and have colleagues willing to vouch for their abilities. Historically, including references directly on resumes was standard practice, especially when resumes were primarily physical documents. As the application process moved online and resumes became more concise, the practice of listing references directly on the resume diminished. However, the importance of having credible references hasn’t changed. Employers frequently request references later in the hiring process, typically after the interview stage. Providing them promptly can expedite the hiring decision.
