By Stephanie Trovato

“Show me the receipts!” We’ve all heard the phrase, and when it comes to your new job search, those “receipts” are your references on a resume. The difference between snagging that dream job or being left in the dust can sometimes come down to the glowing endorsements of your professional network.

In today’s competitive job market, it’s crucial to stand out, and a cover letter alone may not be enough — but having a well-prepared list of references can be the ace up your sleeve.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the nitty-gritty details of adding references to your resume — from how to notify and list them to formatting them like a pro.

• Should you list references on your resume?
• Should you say “References available upon request”?
• How to Notify Your References
• How to Ask People to Be Your References
• Email Template for Potential References
• How to List References on Your Resume
• How to Format References on Your Resume
• References on Resume vs. Letter of Recommendation
• Resume References Examples

Should you list references on your resume?

The answer, as you might expect, is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, such as the industry, the job you’re applying for, and the stage of your career.

Let’s break down when you should and shouldn’t include references on your resume.

When to Include References on Your Resume

1. When specifically requested. If a job posting explicitly asks for references, it’s essential to provide them. In this case, including your references shows that you pay attention to detail and can follow instructions.
2. For entry-level positions. If you’re just starting in your career and don’t have much professional experience, including references can help validate your skills and work ethic. In this scenario, consider including references from internships, volunteer work, or even professors.
3. When transitioning industries. If you’re switching industries and your work experience isn’t directly related to the job you’re applying for, references from people who can vouch for your transferable skills or your ability to adapt to new environments can be beneficial.

When Not to Include References on Your Resume

1. When space is limited. Your resume should ideally be one to two pages. If you’re struggling to fit all your relevant experience and skills, it’s best to save that valuable real estate for showcasing your accomplishments and abilities, rather than including references.
2. When not requested. In most cases, employers will ask for references later in the hiring process, while some may list the requirement directly on the job application. Providing them upfront can make your resume look cluttered and may even give the impression that you’re trying too hard.
3. When you have limited or weak references. If you’re unable to secure strong references or your references have limited knowledge of your …read more

   Source:: HubSpot Blog

         

   

   Author: Aaron