Creating a Reference List

Most potential employers (for both jobs and internships) will request a list of references at some point in the search process. Many employers only ask for references from candidates they are seriously considering; others request references from all applicants. Your reference list is an important document that should be as professional as your resume and cover letter.

Your reference list should...

• Contain at least 3 professional (not personal) references of people who can speak well of you
• Include the complete name, title, organization, address, and telephone numbers for each person listed
• Be ordered in the way you want the references to be contacted -- by priority or strength of reference
• Have a heading similar to that of your resume so that it can be easily recognized and matched with your materials by potential employers

Also, don't forget!

• Ask permission from references before you list them
• Send each reference a copy of your resume
• Discuss the content of your resume and your personality, accomplishments, and skills with each person; remember, you want them to speak knowledgably and well of you
• Consider opening a Credential File with the CRC to store letters of recommendation for application to jobs or graduate schools

Example reference list layout

 

Wesleyan University Box BCD Middletown, CT 06459 (860) abc-12xv	Rachel Fakename	5 West Street, Apt. TA Anytown, NY 12888 (212) cde-18xx
	rnewresume@wesleyan.edu
	REFERENCES
	Professor Jane NoName, Ph.D. Philosophy Department Russell House Wesleyan University Middletown, CT  06459 (860) 666-67nn
	Ms. Susan Nada Name Store Manager No Name Store 12BB East West Drive New York, NY  03444 (666) 344-gf12
	Mr. Joseph Nothing Owner Amazing Coffee House 34nmn Main Street New York, NY 05666 (888) 344-de55