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If you make it far enough in the interview process, an employer will check your references. Your job references are people you ask to endorse the skills and qualifications on your resume and cover letter. You can't control what your references say about you. You do, however, have the ability to select who you want as a reference. 
 

When are references’ contacted?


All candidates might be asked to provide references when they first apply for the job. Or a hiring manager may ask only final candidates for their references’ contact information during the final round of interviews.

Your references can share information about you in the form of a letter of recommendation, an email, or a phone conversation with an employer.

Tips for choosing the best job references


Before you apply for jobs, have a list of 3-5 references available for when a hiring manager asks for them. Since your references have the potential to affect whether or not you get a job, it's important to select individuals who can provide you with a positive review.

Consider these tips for selecting the right people to be a reference:

  1. Choose wisely and think strategically:
    1. Select references who can speak positively about your work ethic and skills.
    2. Consider diversity in references, including colleagues, professors, or supervisors who know you and your work in varied situations.
    3. Choose references from your network who can specifically endorse the skills needed for the job, ensuring a well-rounded recommendation.
  2. Get permission:
    1. Ask your potential references for permission before sharing their contact information.
    2. Demonstrate workplace etiquette and respect when asking someone to be a reference for you. See “Samples and Templates” section for ideas on how to ask.
  3. Collect contact information:
    1. Request preferred contact methods from your references (e.g. personal phone, work phone, email). Employers often request a phone number and an email.
    2. Ensure you have key details like full name, current job title, phone number, email, and work address.
    3. Confirm the length of your relationship (for example, "known for three years") and the nature of your relationship (former coworker, Professor, etc.).
  4. Prepare your references:
    1. Provide them with relevant materials, such as your portfolio, cover letter, and an updated version of your resume so they can speak to all of your experiences.
    2. Keep your references informed about the job(s) you're applying for.
  5. Keep references updated on your job search status.
    1. Inform them if you advance in the interview process to help them prepare for potential contact.
    2. Thank your references for their willingness to support you whether you receive a job or not.

FAQs about references

Should I list references on my resume?
No, do not list your references on your resume. Instead, create a separate document that lists your references. Also, DO NOT add “references upon request” to your resume or CV. Employers know they can contact you to get the information when they need it.


Can I ask a friend to be one of my references? 
Avoid using your friends as a job reference. However, if your friend is your previous supervisor you can include them. Also, include your friend if they are currently employed at the company you're applying for, their referral will improve your chances of getting hired, and your friend can speak directly about your work experience and strengths that relate to the position you applied for.


How should I ask someone to be a reference? 
Start with a phone call or asking in person. If that's not possible, reach out through email. You might have to remind your contact of your name, how you know them (e.g. you were my professor last semester), and your career direction.


When asking the question, phrase it in a way that respects their choice. For example:

  • "I will be job searching in the next few months. May I include you as a reference?"
  • "Would you be comfortable being a reference for a job I'm applying to?"
  • "Do you have time to be a job reference for me in the next few weeks?"

Be respectful when making your request and make it easy for them to decline if they choose to. For more support with asking for a reference, see the “Samples and Templates” section.


What should I include on my reference page? 
At the top of the page, use the same formatting for your name and contact information (i.e., your name block) as your resume and cover letters. This ensures a consistent and professional presentation across all your job search and networking materials.


For each reference, include:

  • Full Name – Include their first and last name
  • Job Title: List their current job title
  • Company Name – Provide the name of the company where they work
  • Address – Include the full address of their workplace 
  • Phone Number – Provide their direct contact number
  • Email Address – List the email address they use for conducting business
  • Relationship – Briefly describe how you know this person (e.g., "Former Manager at XYZ Company").

See the sample reference page below.

 

Listing Your References


To ensure a consistent and quality presentation, your resume reference list should match the look and feel of your resume, including fonts and colors. This creates a cohesive appearance when submitted together. Below is a template for your reference list, along with examples:

  • [Reference’s First and Last Name]
  • [Reference’s Title/Position]
  • [Current Company/School]
  • [Address]
  • [City, State, Zip Code]
  • [Phone Number]
  • [Email Address]
  • [Relationship to You: e.g., Manager, Professor]
  • [Additional Details: e.g., Period of Work/Study]

Examples:

Sarah Johnson
Director of Marketing
XYZ Corporation
5678 Elm Street, Minneapolis, MN 55455
(555) 123-4567
s.johnson@xyzcorp.com
Sarah was my supervisor whenI was a marketing intern at XYZ Corporation. (Summer 2019)

Dr. Michael Lee
Associate Professor of Economics
University of ABC
9012 Oak Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90001
(555) 987-6543
michael.lee@universityabc.edu
Dr. Lee instructed me in several economics courses during my undergraduate studies at the University of ABC. (2016-2020)

Samples and Templates


Asking for a Reference (Email)


Subject line: Reference Request for [Your Name]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I hope you’re doing well! [Insert a pleasantry (e.g., “How is your family?” or “It was great seeing you at the CEHD career fair last month.”)]

I’m currently applying for a position as a [job title you’re applying for] and would appreciate it if I could list you as a reference. Having worked with you for several years at [company’s name], I believe you can offer potential employers valuable insights into my skills that would enhance my chances of securing the job.

I’ve attached my current resume for your referral. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. If now isn’t a convenient time for you, please feel free to let me know.

Thank you very much for considering my request.

Thanks again,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

Status Update for Your Reference


Subject line: Reference Request – Update

Dear [Reference’s name],

Thank you again for agreeing to be a reference for me. I want to inform you that I’ve completed my interviews for the [job title you interviewed for], and [company’s name] may be reaching out to you soon. I’ve attached the job description below so you’re aware of the qualities they’re looking for in a candidate. Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide.

Thank you!
[Your name]

 

Follow Up with Reference


Follow up with your contact to thank them after every reference they provide with a handwritten note or a considerate email. It's also an opportunity for a relationship-building phone call.

After you receive a job offer, email your contacts to inform them of your acceptance and express gratitude for their assistance. You may also offer to reciprocate the favor if they ever need it. Remember, networking is a two-way street.

Below is a sample email for expressing gratitude to your reference:

Subject: Reference for [Name of Employer] - Gratitude!

Dear [Reference's Name],

I wanted to share the news that I've been offered the [position you applied for] role at [company’s name]. Thank you so much for endorsing me. Your support means a lot.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if ever you need a reference or anything else from me to support your career. Let’s connect again in a few months and I can update you on my new job, and we can talk about [mention something the they are working on].

Thank you once again,
[Your Name]

 

Some content on this page is adapted from How To Ask Someone to Be Your Reference (Plus Email Examples) (2003).