Q&A for How to Include References on a Resume

You can give them some requests, but I wouldn't tell them that they have to explicitly include anything. It may be helpful to remind them of your accomplishments and give them context for the job that you're applying for. This may help them come up with something to write.

Ask a teacher or professor, volunteer supervisor, coach, or leader from your community. If you've ever had any odd jobs, you could those clients as a reference as well.

You probably shouldn't. If an employer needs references, they will just ask for them so having this line on your resume doesn't tell them anything and takes up some space you could use for something better.

First determine whether the particular employer or job listing indicates whether you should include them or not, but if they don't mention them, it's usually better to leave them out. Use the space you will save to include more info about yourself. An exception might be if your resume includes testimonials from previous clients or employers, in which case it's a good idea to include their information so their statements can be verified.

You shouldn't include him as a reference on your resume. Rather, at some point in the hiring process, they should ask about personal references inside the company or how you heard about the position, etc. That would be the appropriate time to mention your friend.

Usually, potential employers will like to see your former employers in the reference section. So contact your previous boss to ask for a reference. However, you can also get references from: customers you've dealt with, teachers, former co-workers, friends, family members... The point is that the reference is honest and shows a true reflection of your character, work ethic or personality that did not come from you yourself.

It all depends. For academic jobs, the standard is three. In most other cases, you don't need to include them at all; a potential employer may ask for them if they are seriously considering you as a candidate.

Your references page should be at the very end of your resume, regardless of how many pages your resume contains.

While it isn't recommended, if you do not have many (or any) other referees, and your mother (or any other family member) can attest to your personality and work ethic, then you may list her. Family friends or other known people are another option as long as you have their permission.

Generally not recommended. This is better handled in 1:1 discussions.

Read the job description carefully and review your relevant accomplishments. Then explain how your accomplishments make you the ideal candidate for each of the job requirements. Do this in just a few sentences.

Never do this. Either include references or do not include them. Here is why you should not ever use this phrase: 1) It says nothing, because it is obvious that you will furnish references if needed. 2) It is somewhat insulting to the reader. It says "I do not at this time trust you with my references." 3) It is dated. This was a common phrase on resumes decades ago.

Yes, but it is not recommended unless they are looking for personal references or unless you have worked at the church. You should try to use professional references from places of employment whenever possible.

Yes, but it depends on the specific instance. If you had multiple positions in the same company, you can use multiple references.

You should supply references who will present you realistically, but in the most positive light possible. Do not include in your reference list someone who will not do this for you.

There isn't really a specific guide on this, you can list references you only had for short temp assignments, sporadic work, or even one-off event work. However ideally, the best looking references you will have will have worked with you for at least 6 months or more, however this is somewhat dependent on what industry you work in.

You are free to have as many references available for your own personal use, but on your resume or for a job application, you usually need to provide 2-3 references maximum. For example you may have several references in different industries, so you would list your references from the most relevant industries to match the job you are applying for.

You can still use your references even if they are no longer working for your previous employer, as they are attesting to your work ethic at the company you both worked at. However, if you don't have any other contact information for them, then there is not much you can do, apart from trying to contact them via social media if you were good friends with them.

Including references on a resume for college or sixth-form application is not necessary or standard practice. Generally, resumes for educational institutions focus on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal statements. Instead, colleges or sixth-form institutions typically request references separately as part of their application form. They may ask for references from teachers, counsellors, or mentors who can provide insights into your academic performance, character, and potential as a student.