Whether to Include References in Your Resume
References are important in the job application process. While there is debate about whether references should be included in a resume, there are some good reasons why they should be considered. Including references in your resume can help employers make up their minds more quickly about hiring you, and it can also showcase your best qualities and talents.
What Are References?
References are personal or professional contacts that have had direct contact with you in the past and can vouch for your character, work experience, and skills. They may include supervisors, co-workers, teachers, instructors, friends, and family members.References are requested during the application process to help employers evaluate your ability to do the job and confirm your claims about your experience and skills.
Do You Need to Include References in Your Resume?
It is not necessary to include references on a resume. While it is important to have professional references ready to go, you are not required to list them on the resume itself. Depending on the circumstances, you may choose to mention your references in the cover letter or list them separately.
Benefits of Including References on Your Resume
Though it is not typically required, there are several benefits to including references on your resume. These can include:
- References help to provide employers with additional information about you and demonstrate that you have been professional in other employment settings.
- References allow employers to quickly verify your claims about your skills and experience.
- References provide employers with an additional source of feedback about you.
- References can demonstrate to employers that you have a network of people who can vouch for you.
Who to Include as a Reference
When you are choosing who to include as a reference, do not be afraid to think beyond supervisors and co-workers. Depending on the job, it is perfectly acceptable to include teachers, instructors, friends, and family members as references.You can also include personal references such as neighbors or religious leaders.If you are including personal references, make sure to discuss your relationship to them and why you think they are suitable for making a reference about you.
How to Include References in Your Resume
If you choose to include references in your resume, there is a standard format that you should use. This format is similar to the way you list other credentials such as your education and experience. You should list your references first and last name, current job title, name of the organization they work for, their email address, and their phone number.
Conclusion
Including references in your resume can be beneficial when you are applying for a job. References help to provide employers with additional information about you and make the hiring process quicker. When including references in your resume, make sure to use a standard format and list individuals who you trust to make a positive statement about your character, experience, and skills.