References Format

It is worth pointing out that whether or not you need to include a reference list usually depends on the company, the job, and the application requirements. It is a good idea to include a reference list only when the job application specifically requires it or the hiring manager requests one. If you really need one, it is important to follow the list of references format.

The reference list is quite essential, as you see entries in an address book. The list contains information related to the references you have selected, so that your prospective employers could contact your references directly. A reference list should at least have two references and it is a good idea to keep it less than four. You should use the following reference format:

• Reference's name

• Company name [where you have both worked together]

• Phone number

• Email ID

• Your relationship to the reference person

It is important to understand that your reference list is not the same document as your resume, so you have to list references in a proper format.

Standard Reference List

An employment reference list or simply a reference list is a page that consists of the names and the contact info of those people who can give information about you to your employer. Here's an example of a standard reference list:

Your Name Full address with city and zip Phone Email ID REFERENCES Mr. John Smith Director of Sales ABC Distribution Company 216 Johnson Street Orlando, Florida 26457 333-333-3333 Ms. Nancy Paul Branch Manager XYZ Products, Inc. 235 Street FL 36598 333-333-3333 Ms. Jenna McCarthy Director 3265 SE Rukins Place Jacksonville, FL 32545 333-333-3333

Professional Reference & Personal Reference Format

You can always stick to a standard reference format, but sometimes you can include both professional and personal reference in your list. Professional references can give feedback on your workplace attitude and work ethics, and these references include people you have worked with in the past. Personal references usually include non-immediate family and close friends who can comment on your personal character. Both types of references are important for employers to make a decision.

A simple columned list is the best for two reasons: easy to maintain; easy for your new employer's staff to make notes. Below is one type of possible formats:

Reference of John Smith

333 Address, City, ST, Zip, Telephone, Mobile, Email

Professional Contacts

Name

Title

Organization

Telephone

Mobile

Email

How Long Known

Capacity

Connection

Personal Contacts

Name

Title

Home Address

Phone

Mobile

Email Id

How Long Known

Connection/Relationship

It is important to ensure that the list is no more than 2-3 pages. Also, use a font that they can scan and read with ease, such as Courier or Times Roman.

It is suggested to update your reference list at least once every six weeks or earlier if you're actively hunting a job. You should contact your references and ensure you have correct information added to your reference list.

Add at least three references and don't give more than six references. Always mention your strongest reference first.

Always select your references carefully. Opt for those people whom you know on a professional level. Professional references may include former or current managers, employers, colleagues, co-workers, and deans.

Choose personal references carefully. You may opt for classmates, ecclesiastical leaders, members of community organizations, etc.

Ask permission from your potential references before using their names and contact details. Try to inform your references that you're applying for a job and they should expect a call.

ŸAlways share a copy of resume with your references to ensure they know about your experience, qualifications, education, and more.