Where do you put referees on a resume?

Where Do You Put Referees on a Resume?

The age-old question of where to put referees on a resume has a simple answer: generally, you don’t. While the practice was once standard, modern hiring practices have shifted. Including the phrase “References available upon request” is now considered outdated and takes up valuable space on your resume that could be used to highlight your skills and accomplishments.

Instead of dedicating precious resume real estate to referees, consider a more strategic approach. Hold off on providing references until they’re specifically requested by the potential employer. This allows you to:

• Control the narrative: You can preemptively contact your referees, reminding them of your application and highlighting the specific skills and experiences relevant to the role. This ensures they’re prepared to provide a strong and targeted endorsement.
• Tailor your references: Different roles may require different referees. By waiting for the request, you can choose the individuals who can best speak to your qualifications for that particular position. This allows you to present the most compelling case for your candidacy.
• Maximize resume space: Eliminating the referees section allows you to dedicate more space to showcasing your achievements and qualifications, making your resume more impactful and increasing your chances of landing an interview.

However, there are specific situations where a dedicated referees section can be beneficial:

• Academic applications: Academia often relies heavily on references, so including them on your CV is generally expected and even encouraged.
• Specific industry requirements: Some industries, particularly those with strict regulatory requirements or security clearances, might prefer to see references upfront. Research your target industry to confirm best practices.
• Networking situations: If you’re networking and handing out resumes proactively, including references can provide valuable context and facilitate connections.

If you do decide to include a dedicated referees section, place it at the very end of your resume, after your skills and experience sections. Format it clearly and concisely:

Referees:

• [Referee Name 1]: [Referee Title 1], [Referee Organization 1], [Referee Phone Number 1], [Referee Email Address 1]
• [Referee Name 2]: [Referee Title 2], [Referee Organization 2], [Referee Phone Number 2], [Referee Email Address 2]
• [Referee Name 3]: [Referee Title 3], [Referee Organization 3], [Referee Phone Number 3], [Referee Email Address 3]

Remember, always obtain permission from your referees before listing their contact information. Ensure their information is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any inconvenience for the hiring manager. By strategically managing your references, you can present yourself in the best possible light and increase your chances of securing your dream job.