Including References on Your Resume

Updated June 18, 20221.8k

To get your dream job, you first need to secure an interview. Here’s one phrase you shouldn’t use on your resume if you want to stand out to employers.

Should You Put “References Available Upon Request” on Your Resume?

While it used to be common to put “References available upon request” on your resume, there are several reasons to avoid this phrase. For one, most hiring managers or recruiters expect your references to be included with your resume if they ask for them. So just saying that they are available is unnecessary, and wastes space on your resume you could devote to more information about your qualifications. Additionally, the phrase “References available upon request” might come off as off-putting to some hiring managers, who may interpret it to mean that you are trying to avoid giving references.

When To Include References on Your Resume

Including references with your resume can be a crucial part of the hiring process. That said, including references within the body of your resume is usually not the way to go. Instead, include your list of references on a separate dedicated references page. Additionally, if you are sending your resume to a potential employer over email, you can send your reference page as an attachment, similar to how you would send a cover letter.
Even if a hiring manager doesn’t ask for references right away, it’s a good idea to have them handy. So if any of your previous managers or supervisors are serving as references, keep their information in a separate document. That way, you can easily send them to a prospective employer along with your resume and job application, if they are required.

What To Focus On in Your Resume (Instead of References)

When you start your job search, the end goal is to secure a job interview and score the job. First, you need to impress your future employer by showcasing your best skills and qualifications for the job. That said, references alone typically won’t get you your dream job. Hiring managers and recruiters will need to see that you have the skills to complete the job.

That said, make sure your resume is formatted properly and includes the most relevant information. First, start off by including your name and contact information at the top of your resume. Make sure to leave your phone number, email address, and a link to a professional portfolio, such as your LinkedIn profile.

Then come up with a resume objective or resume summary to explain why your top skills and achievements, giving employers an understanding of your strengths. Next, come up with a list of your best skills, including hard skills and soft skills. This is where you should address key skills listed in the job description and tailor your resume to the job.

Moving on to your job experience section, make sure to list jobs you’ve held within the past 10 years. Additionally, ensure your most recent job is listed first on your resume, along with your most important accomplishments and duties for each job. Then you can list your education credentials as well as certifications and awards you’ve received through school or work.

For more help creating a professional resume, consider using a resume template to ensure you have the right layout for your resume, and include all the important sections outlined above.

FAQ: “References Available Upon Request”

Are professional references important to have on your resume?

While references aren’t usually included with your resume, it’s always great to have a list of trusted references on hand. References are important because they give potential employers a good idea of how your colleagues view you. Additionally, it gives employers a resource whom they can ask about your capabilities, character and any notable achievements.

What if I don’t have any references?

If you don’t have any references from a past employer or work professional, don’t worry. You can use unbiased character references from someone outside your family, like a past teacher or professor. Depending on the job application and hiring process, you can give your potential employer a written reference or provide your reference’s contact information.
Additionally, you don’t need to include references if they aren’t requested by the job application.

What are some better phrases to use instead of “References available upon request”?

You don’t have to say “References available upon request” at all because if your hiring manager wants to see a list of references, they will ask. There’s no need to use this phrase on your resume, as it takes up valuable real estate that you could use for relevant skills or notable qualifications.

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About The Author

Jessie Oleson Moore

Jessie Oleson Moore is a Philadelphia-based freelance writer / ghostwriter and artist. As a writer, she has written extensively on finance, day trading, personal growth, and career development and has extensive experience producing in-depth, research-based articles and guides. In addition, she is an accomplished illustrator and author who has appeared on The Today Show and been featured in Publisher's Weekly. In her free time, she’s an avid traveler, Ashtanga yoga practitioner, and unicorn enthusiast.