What is a references page?
A references page is a separate, one-page document listing people who can speak to your work — usually 3, with their title, company, how you know them and their contact details. It isn't part of your resume; you send or bring it only when it's asked for.
That's a change from older advice. "References available upon request" used to be a standard resume line; today it's assumed and wastes space better spent on your experience. Leave it off and have the page ready instead.
QUICK RULES
A separate page, sent only when it's asked for.
- Keep references off your resume; use a separate page only when asked
- Three references is standard; have a fourth ready as a backup
- A former manager carries more weight than a coworker or a friend
- Always ask permission before you list someone
- Give each reference your resume and the job post before they're called
- Match the header style of your resume so the two pages look related
When you need one
Most applications never ask. Prepare the page anyway, so you're never scrambling for one at the final step:
- A job posting or application form asks for references
- You're asked after an interview, usually in the final round
- You're applying to government, healthcare, education or other roles that check references by policy
Who to ask
Pick people who know your work well and will speak to it specifically — not just say nice things in general.
A former manager or supervisor
Speaks directly to your work and how you're managed. The strongest reference for most jobs.
A senior coworker or project lead
Good when you worked closely together but didn't report to them, or your manager isn't reachable.
A client or vendor contact
Useful for sales, consulting and account roles, where outside relationships are part of the job.
A professor or advisor
Fine for a first job or internship, especially paired with a manager from part-time work.
A volunteer or club leader
Works for students and career changers who can show reliability through unpaid work.
Avoid these, even if they technically fit:
- Family members, even if they also happen to be a boss or client
- Friends with no professional connection to your work
- Anyone you haven't asked, or who said yes a long time ago and may not remember you well
- A manager you know will give a lukewarm reference — pick someone who'll actually help you
How to ask someone to be a reference
Ask directly, give them an easy way to say no, and tell them what to expect. A short message works well:
A short message to ask someone
“Hi [Name], I'm applying for [job title] roles and wondered if you'd be willing to be a reference. I'd expect at most a couple of calls or emails, and I'll give you the job details and my resume ahead of time so you're not caught off guard. Totally understand if now isn't a good time — just let me know either way. Thanks!”
Once they agree, send your resume and the job posting (or type of role) you're applying for, so their answers stay consistent with your application.
References page template
Match your resume's header style — same name treatment and font. Here's the format:
References page template
[Your Name]
[City, State] · [Email] · [Phone]
References
[Reference 1 Name], [Their Job Title]
[Company Name]
[How you know them, e.g. "Former manager at Acme Corp, 2022–2025"]
[Email]
[Phone]
[Reference 2 Name], [Their Job Title]
[Company Name]
[How you know them]
[Email]
[Phone]
[Reference 3 Name], [Their Job Title]
[Company Name]
[How you know them]
[Email]
[Phone]
Formatting rules
- One page, plain text. No columns, tables or graphics — the same reasons that make a resume ATS-friendly apply here.
- Three references is standard. Fewer looks thin; more than four rarely gets read.
- List your strongest reference first. Employers often start at the top.
- Keep it current. Update phone numbers and titles before every job search; people change jobs too.
- Send it as its own file or page, named clearly (e.g. "[Your Name] — References.pdf"), never pasted into the resume.
LinkedIn recommendations aren't a substitute
A written LinkedIn recommendation is public, one-sided and can't be asked follow-up questions, so most employers still call or email the references you list separately. It's a good addition to your profile, but it doesn't replace a references page when one's requested.