Job References on A Resume?

Ever wonder if you should really put references on a resume?

As a general rule, reference information is omitted on the resume, and instead, provided following the interview. However, in some instances, you may wish to include them on your document. Here are some general guidelines for either listing or omitting them.

When To Avoid Using References on a Resume

Because it’s unlikely an employer will call anyone from your list until after the interview, these contacts are generally considered irrelevant, and may take up valuable space on your resume. Remember, your document will likely get only a 30 second initial glance, so it’s important to include only the most relevant information. Keep in mind that the employer may have hundreds of documents to sift through, and keeping your information as pertinent and readable as possible will lend to a favorable impression.

Keep in mind that if you omit these names, there is absolutely no need to include a line stating they are “available upon request” as it again takes up valuable word real estate.

When To Include Job References

Another reason to consider including a reference section on your document is if you genuinely believe the names you list may aid in the process of being selected for an interview. For example, are you listing other people employed at the same agency? Well-known people who the hiring manager may know?

Before making a quick decision to include these names, however, think about whether or not you can “name drop” in any other manner. For example, would it be more appropriate to mention that key person’s name in your cover letter?

Giving out contact information can sometimes backfire and result in that person being “over called.” In other words, by including contact information, your reference may be unnecessarily imposed upon. Although curious about what others may have to say about you, most hiring managers will not make any serious decisions about who to hire until after the interview.