How to List References on Resume: A 2025 Career Guide

Including references on a resume can be helpful. While it is no longer the norm, there are still instances where you need to provide them. In case you do, it is important to know how to list them, so your references are clear and professional.

This article shares guidance on how to list references on a resume, including when and what to include, with examples for different backgrounds. We'll also provide reference tips and highlight common mistakes to avoid.

When to Include References on a Resume?

References on a resume are generally not recommended unless the employer specifically asks for them, according to career experts. Although it was once a standard practice, experts advise skipping references to save space for achievements and qualifications that match the job description.

Also, including 'references available upon request' on a resume is no longer necessary, as employers already know references can be provided when needed. Most employers specifically request references later in the interview process.

The following are other reasons it is not a good practice to list references on your resume:

• Takes up valuable space
• References are often requested later
• It can appear outdated
• Protects your contacts' privacy

So, how many references are enough? If an employer happens to request references, it is recommended to list between 3 to 5. Make sure to meet the minimum, as too few can seem like a weak network and raise concerns.

How to List References on a Resume

In case you're tasked to put references on your resume, choose the right people who can speak about your work. Follow these steps to list them clearly.

1. Select and inform your references: First things first, choose people who can speak well about your work, such as a former direct manager, colleague, or professor. Always ask their permission before listing them so they know they may be contacted.
2. Write a heading and list your references: Create a clear heading, such as References or Professional References, and list each one beneath it. For every reference, include their full name, job title and company, phone number, email address, and a brief description of your relationship with them.
3. Make a separate document if possible: It's best to create a separate references list or page. This keeps your resume clean and helps the hiring manager focus on your qualifications. Only submit reference information when requested, with your name at the top and your references' contact details listed below.

References on Resume Template

Only use this template as your guide and customize it to fit your experience and skills.

[Reference name]
[Reference position]
[Reference company]
[Reference company address]
[Reference phone number]
[Reference email address]
[Reference description showing where and when you worked together and your working relationship.]

Resume References Examples

Now you know what a references section on a resume looks like, here are some examples you can use, depending on your background.

• Reference in Resume for Experienced

  For experienced individuals, a reference can be a former manager or colleague. Here are some examples:

  Example #1

  John Decoroso
  Senior Copywriter
  Creative Solutions
  456 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022
  (212) 555-8790
  john.decoroso@email.com
  
  John was my senior at Creative Solutions from 2020 to 2023, where we collaborated on advertising and branding projects. He can speak about my writing skills, creativity, and ability to meet deadlines.

  Example #2

  Raquel Martinez
  Direct Supervisor
  Market2You
  123 Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
  (310) 555-7890
  raquel.martinez@email.com
  
  Raquel supervised my work at Market2You from 2021 to 2023. She can attest to my expertise in marketing, strategic thinking, and my ability to deliver results on time.

• Reference in Resume for Freshers

  For freshers with limited or no professional experience, references can be your professors, academic advisors, internship supervisors, or volunteer leaders.

  Example #1

  Dr. Liam Philips
  Professor of Medical Sciences
  University of Chicago
  5801 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637
  (773) 555-1234
  liam.philips@uchicago.edu
  
  Dr. Philips was my professor for Human Anatomy and Physiology from 2022 to 2023. We worked on a research project called "Cardiovascular Health and Exercise Impact Study."

  Example #2

  Jade Dela Cerna
  Senior Reporter
  ABC Digital
  789 Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
  (312) 555-6789
  jade.delacerna@abcdigital.com
  
  Mr. Jade supervised my summer internship at ABC Digital in 2023, where I worked as his editorial intern covering the business beat.

• Reference in Resume for Students

  If you're still a student and do not have much work experience, professional references can include professors, project mentors, or leaders from student organizations.

  Example #1

  James Blue
  Campus President
  University of Chicago Student Government
  5801 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637
  (773) 555-2345
  james.blue@uchicago.edu
  
  James supervised my role as a Student Government volunteer from 2022 to 2023. He knows my leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills from managing campus events and projects.

  Example #2

  Marko Antonio
  Part-time Art Professor
  Ohio University
  1 Ohio University Drive, Athens, OH 45701
  (740) 555-6789
  marko.antonio@ohio.edu
  
  Professor Marko is my mentor at Ohio University. We worked on several art projects and research assignments together from 2022 to 2023.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Listing Professional References

Here are some common mistakes. Avoid these at all costs to ensure your references remain credible and professional.

1. Not asking your references for permission
   This is the most important rule: never list someone as a reference without their permission. It is unprofessional and can put them in an awkward position. Letting them know in advance allows them to prepare and give a strong reference during a reference check.
2. Providing incomplete or inaccurate contact information
   This mistake can be costly and make you appear unprofessional. Always double-check your references' details to avoid errors that could frustrate a hiring manager.
3. Choosing poor references or listing personal contacts
   Always remember that your references should be able to speak about your skills, job performance, and work ethic. A former manager, senior colleague, or professional mentor is a better choice than a family member or friend, as personal references do not carry the same weight professionally.
4. Including a fake reference
   The purpose of including references on your resume is to build trust with potential employers. A reliable resume reference list confirms your work history and skills. Listing fake or non-existent references can damage that trust and reduce your chances of being hired.

Listing references on a resume is somewhat outdated, but if you need to include them, do it correctly. It is wise to prepare your references in advance or have a reference sheet before an employer requests them. You could also read more about resume tips to strengthen your application and improve your chances of getting hired.