Email
Print
Candidates should prepare a list of people who can verify your work experience and capabilities. References are typically not listed on a resume. They are highlighted at the bottom of a resume as "References available upon request." If you are intern you may not have any references, so you can leave the notation off of your resume.
WHERE CAN I FIND A REFERENCE?
Students can ask a supervisor, manager, academic adviser or teacher to be a reference. References you should not include parents, family members and friends.
Employers will contact your reference for the purpose of verifying your work experience, strengths noted on your resume and general confirmation of their work experiences with you.
WHAT WILL THE COMPANY ASK MY REFERENCE?
The company may ask questions such as:
• Can you tell us about your experience in working with this person?
• Did they complete assigned projects?
• Were they reliable and dependable?
• Would you recommend them for employment?
HOW SHOULD I PROVIDE MY REFERENCE LIST?
List your references on separate sheet of paper. Do not include them on a cover letter or a resume. Simply make a note at the bottom of your resume stating "References available upon request".
Your reference list should provide the company name, contact person, title, address, phone, email and suggested times when they can be reached.
Sample References Format
Name
Title
Company
Company Address
Phone
Email Address
Best time to reach this person
PREPARE YOUR REFERENCE
Prepare your references before you send out a resume. Your notification will better prepare your reference for a call from prospective companies.