The practice of providing a list of professional contacts who can vouch for one’s skills and experience has long been a component of the job application process. Typically, these contacts are previous supervisors, colleagues, or clients who can offer insights into a candidate’s qualifications and work ethic. For example, a potential employer might contact a listed individual to verify employment dates, discuss performance on specific projects, or gain a better understanding of a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses.
Offering such a list can signal preparedness and transparency to potential employers. It allows candidates to proactively address potential questions about their background and provides a readily available avenue for verification. Historically, including these contacts directly on a resume was standard practice. However, evolving recruitment practices and the rise of online professional networking platforms have shifted this norm. In the modern job market, holding space for this information on a resume can be valuable real estate better used to showcase skills and accomplishments. Furthermore, contacting these individuals without prior consent can be disruptive and inconsiderate.
