When creating a strong resume, most job seekers focus on experience, education, and skills — but there’s one section that often causes confusion: references on resume. Should you include them? How many should you list? And what’s the correct format in 2026?

This complete guide answers all your questions about how to put references on a resume, when to include them, and provides resume references examples you can use right away.

Key Points:

• Don’t add references on your resume unless the employer specifically asks.

• Use a separate reference page with matching resume formatting.

• Ideal number of references: 3 for standard roles, 4–5 for senior, 2–3 for entry-level.

• Include essential details: Name, Title, Company, Relationship, Email, Phone, LinkedIn.

• Ask permission first before listing anyone as a reference.

• Academic references are fine for students or early-career candidates.

• Only use LinkedIn contacts if they’ve worked with you directly and agreed.

• Choose references who can speak to your skills, achievements, and work ethic.

• Avoid mistakes: listing friends/family, outdated contact info, or adding references when not requested.

• Keep a ready, updated reference sheet to send during interviews or final hiring stages.

What Are References on a Resume?

References on a resume are the names and contact details of people who can vouch for your qualifications, skills, and work ethic. They could be your former supervisors, colleagues, professors, or clients who’ve seen your professional performance firsthand.

Recruiters use references to verify your background and assess whether you’d be a good fit for the company. However, the way you include them has changed over the years especially in 2026, where digital hiring and privacy concerns have reshaped how resumes are formatted.

Also Read:Tell Me About Yourself Sample for Freshers Free Template

How to list professional references on a resume? 

You should list professional references on a separate page, not directly on your resume, unless the employer specifically asks for them.

A reference list includes the person’s name, job title, company, phone number, email, and your relationship to them.

Should You Include References on Your Resume?

Traditionally, resumes ended with a line that read “References available upon request.” But that’s now considered outdated.

In modern resume writing, you don’t need to include references on your resume unless the employer specifically asks for them. Instead, it’s best to create a separate reference sheet that you can share upon request during later stages of hiring.

Here’s why:

• It keeps your resume concise and focused on your achievements.
• Protects your references’ personal contact information.
• Allows you to tailor your reference list for each job application.

Pro Tip: Always inform your references before including them so they can prepare if a recruiter contacts them.

When to Include References on a Resume

While most job applications don’t require references upfront, there are a few situations where including them can be beneficial:

1. When the job listing requests references directly.
2. When applying for academic or research positions, CV references examples are standard practice.
3. When you have a strong recommendation from a high-profile professional that can boost your credibility.
4. When submitting resumes in smaller industries or startups, where hiring is more personal.
5. If the company hasn’t requested references, save them for the interview or final screening phase.

Also Read:Effective Career Objective Examples for Experienced Professionals

How many references should I include on a resume? 

You should include 3–5 professional references, but only on a separate reference sheet—not directly on your resume unless the employer specifically asks for it.

Most recruiters prefer receiving references later in the hiring process.

How to Decide the Right Number of References

Standard Recommendation: 3 References

Ideal for most jobs. Shows credibility without overwhelming employers.

Senior or Managerial Roles: 4–5 References

Useful when you need a mix of peers, managers, clients, and direct reports.

Entry-Level Positions: 2–3 References

Professors, internship supervisors, or project leads are acceptable.

Freelancers or Contractors: Flexible (3–5)

Include clients or project stakeholders who can verify your work quality.

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How to Put References on a Resume

When it’s time to include references, presentation and formatting matter. Here’s how to do it correctly:

Create a Separate Reference Page

Instead of squeezing references into your resume, create a dedicated page titled “References” or “Professional References.”Keep it consistent with your resume’s font, header, and formatting style.

List 2–4 Professional References

Include people who can speak to your professional skills and character — ideally supervisors, colleagues, mentors, or clients. Avoid listing family or friends.

Include Key Information for Each Reference

Each reference should include:

• Full Name
• Job Title
• Company Name
• Professional Relationship (e.g., Former Manager)
• Email Address
• Phone Number
• (Optional) LinkedIn Profile

Example Format:

John Smith

Marketing Director, ABC Media Ltd.

Former Supervisor

Email: john.smith@abcmedia.com

Phone: +1 (234) 567-8901

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith

Maintain Professional Consistency

Ensure the design and layout of your reference page match your resume. Use the same header (name and contact info) and keep spacing clean and readable.

Can I use LinkedIn contacts as references on my resume? 

Yes, you can use LinkedIn contacts as references on your resume but only if they know you professionally, have worked with you directly, and have given explicit permission to be listed.

A LinkedIn connection alone is not enough; the person must be able to speak credibly about your work.

When LinkedIn Contacts Are Appropriate as References

They Have Direct Experience Working With You

Former managers, team leads, clients, or colleagues who collaborated with you on real projects.

They Have Provided a LinkedIn Recommendation

If they’ve already written a public recommendation, they’re usually comfortable serving as a reference.

They Agree to Be Contacted

You must ask them first never assume that a LinkedIn connection wants to be on your reference list.

They Hold Relevant Positions

A reference whose role aligns with your industry or job target adds more credibility.

When You Should NOT Use a LinkedIn Contact

• You barely know them.

• You’ve never worked together.

• They are a casual connection or networking acquaintance.

• They don’t respond to your request for permission.

• Using the wrong contact can weaken your application.

How to List a LinkedIn Contact as a Reference

If they agree, include:

• Full Name

• Current Job Title

• Company

• Email Address

• Phone Number

• Your Relationship (e.g., Former Manager at XYZ)

Do not list a LinkedIn profile URL as the reference itself use full contact details.

Resume References Example

Here’s a modern resume references example you can copy and adapt:

References

Sarah Johnson

Project Manager, TechWave Solutions
Former Supervisor
Email: sarah.johnson@techwave.com
Phone: +1 (212) 555-2743
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarahjohnson

Daniel Lee

Senior Software Engineer, BrightCloud Systems
Former Team Lead
Email: daniel.lee@brightcloud.io
Phone: +1 (310) 442-9890

Emily Carter

HR Manager, InnovateHub Ltd.
Mentor and Professional Reference
Email: emily.carter@innovatehub.com
Phone: +1 (512) 337-8821

This format is professional, clean, and easy to read. It aligns with modern resume writing trends where clarity and design consistency matter as much as content.

References Example for an Academic or Research CV

If you’re submitting a CV for academic or research roles, references are typically included at the end of the document. Use this structure:

References

Dr. Amanda Williams

Professor of Business Management
University of California, Los Angeles
Email: amanda.williams@ucla.edu
Phone: +1 (213) 567-4452

Dr. Robert Anderson

Head of Research, Global Insights Institute
Email: robert.anderson@giinstitute.org
Phone: +1 (646) 223-7844

In academic CVs, having two or three references is standard, and titles like “Dr.” or “Professor” add authority to your submission.

Who to Include as a Reference

When selecting references on a resume, choose people who can speak positively about your professional achievements, work ethic, and character. Ideal references include:

• Former Managers or Supervisors – They know your work performance best.
• Colleagues or Team Leads – They can vouch for teamwork and collaboration.
• Clients – For freelancers or consultants, clients validate credibility.
• Professors or Mentors – Perfect for entry-level candidates or students.
• Industry Peers or Partners – Adds authority in specialized fields.

Avoid listing:

• Family or friends (seen as unprofessional).
• Anyone who hasn’t worked closely with you.
• Outdated references from 10+ years ago.

How to request a reference from a former employer professionally? 

You can request a reference from a former employer professionally by contacting them directly, explaining the role you’re applying for, and politely asking if they’re comfortable serving as a reference.

Always provide context, give them your updated resume, and thank them in advance for their support.

Step-by-Step: How to Request a Reference Professionally

Contact Them Through a Professional Channel

Use email or LinkedIn not informal messaging apps.Keep your message respectful, concise, and polite.

Remind Them of Your Work Together

Mention your job title, the projects you worked on, or key achievements to help them recall your contributions.

Explain Why You're Requesting the Reference

Share the job title, company, and type of reference needed (email, phone, written).

Provide Helpful Materials

Include your updated resume, portfolio, or job description so they can give an accurate and strong reference.

Ask for Permission Clearly

Phrase your request as a question, not an assumption.
Example: “Would you be comfortable serving as a reference for me?”

Give Them Enough Time

Send your request at least a few days or weeks before the employer expects the reference.

Thank Them Warmly

Express gratitude whether they say yes or no.

Professional Email Template for Requesting a Reference

Subject: Request for Professional Reference

Hi [Name],

I hope you're doing well. I’m applying for a [Job Title] role at [Company], and I wanted to ask if you’d be comfortable serving as a professional reference.

We worked together on [Project/Team] during my time as [Your Role], and your perspective on my work would be valuable. I’ve attached my updated resume and the job description for context.

Please let me know if you're open to this. Thank you so much for your time and support.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Is it necessary to include references on a resume or provide them on request? 

No, it is not necessary to include references directly on a resume.

Most employers prefer that you provide references only when requested, usually during the final stages of the hiring process.

Instead of listing names on your resume, you can simply write: “References available upon request.”

Why You Don’t Need References on Your Resume

Saves Resume Space

A resume should be concise references take up valuable space better used for skills and achievements.

Employers Ask for Them Later

Recruiters typically request references after interviews, not at the application stage.

Keeps Your Contacts’ Information Private

Sharing emails and phone numbers widely can expose references to unwanted calls.

Allows You to Tailor References

Providing references only when asked lets you choose the most relevant people for each role.

Best Practice for Handling References

• Prepare a separate reference sheet with 3–5 professional references.

• Include full name, job title, company, phone, email, and your relationship.

• Send this document only when the recruiter asks for it.

Can I use academic references on a professional resume? 

Yes, you can use academic references on a professional resume especially if you’re a recent graduate, have limited work experience, or your academic projects relate to the role.

Professors, academic advisors, project supervisors, and research mentors can all serve as credible references.

When Academic References Are Appropriate

You’re an Entry-Level Candidate

Graduates, interns, and early-career professionals commonly use academic references.

Your Coursework or Research Is Relevant

If your academic work matches the job field, the reference adds value.

You Completed Significant Projects

Capstone, thesis, or group projects supervised by faculty make strong talking points for employers.

You Don’t Have Enough Professional References Yet

Academic references can bridge the gap until you gain more work experience.

Who Can Be an Academic Reference?

• Professors

• Research supervisors

• Academic advisors

• Project or thesis mentors

• Internship coordinators

Choose someone who knows your skills, work ethic, and achievements.

How to List an Academic Reference

Include the following information:

• Full Name

• Academic Title (e.g., Professor, Lecturer)

• University or Department

• Email Address

• Phone Number

• Your Relationship (e.g., Thesis Supervisor, Course Instructor)

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Tips for Managing References Professionally

Follow these best practices to ensure your references work in your favor:

Always Ask Permission

Never list someone without asking first. Send them an email or call to confirm their willingness and availability.

Provide Context

Briefly explain the job you’re applying for so they can tailor their feedback to that role.

Keep Them Updated

Let your references know when you get interviews or offers — it shows gratitude and professionalism.

Prepare a Reference Sheet

Have a separate, well-formatted document ready to share upon request. This small step reflects organization and readiness.

Check Their Contact Information

Make sure all emails and phone numbers are current and accurate. Incorrect contact details can cost you valuable opportunities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced professionals make small errors when adding references. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Adding references when not requested.
• Listing personal acquaintances instead of professionals.
• Forgetting to inform your references.
• Using outdated or incorrect contact information.
• Including “References available upon request” on the resume it’s redundant in 2026.

How to Mention References During an Interview

If an interviewer asks about references, respond confidently:

I have a list of professional references ready and can share it immediately.

This shows preparation and professionalism without overloading your initial resume submission.

Conclusion

Adding references on a resume can help, but only when done the right way. In 2026, the smarter approach is to keep your resume clean and focused, and prepare a separate reference page that you can share when needed.

Choose professional contacts who can honestly speak about your work ethic, achievements, and reliability. Format your reference list neatly, double-check all details, and let your contacts know in advance.

If you want a polished, recruiter-ready reference page, tools like Sound CV make it easy to create and organize your resume references correctly. With the right approach, your reference list can boost your credibility and help you stand out as a prepared, dependable candidate."