Job seekers often wonder: how do you format references on a resume? References can play an important role in the hiring process, but they’re not always necessary. In many industries, employers may contact references only after the interview stage. Still, knowing the right way to format references — and when to include them — is a professional skill that makes your application stand out. Done correctly, listing references shows preparedness, attention to detail, and credibility.
Let’s walk through when and how to format references on a resume, along with a realistic example that demonstrates exactly how it should look.
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WHEN TO INCLUDE REFERENCES ON A RESUME
You should include references only if the job posting specifically asks for them or if you know the recruiter prefers seeing them upfront. Otherwise, it’s best to save the space for showcasing your skills, achievements, and experience. If requested, always include professional references who can speak about your work ethic, performance, and contributions.
HOW TO FORMAT REFERENCES ON A RESUME
Formatting references correctly makes your resume look polished. Here are the key rules:
Place references on a separate page or at the end of your resume if required.
Use consistent font style and size as the rest of your resume.
List each reference with full name, professional title, company, phone number, and email.
Include 2–4 references, depending on what the employer requests.
Keep everything aligned neatly and professional in tone.
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REALISTIC RESUME SAMPLE WITH REFERENCES
Below is a complete resume sample that answers the question: how do you format references on a resume? This example includes a dedicated references section at the end.
RESUME SAMPLE
John A. Candidate
1234 Maple Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601
(555) 123-4567 | john.candidate@email.com
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented marketing professional with 5+ years of experience driving brand growth and customer engagement. Skilled in digital strategy, content creation, and analytics. Proven ability to deliver measurable campaign results and build strong client relationships.
Skills
Digital Marketing Strategy
SEO & Content Marketing
Social Media Campaigns
Google Analytics & Reporting
Client Relationship Management
Work Experience
Marketing Specialist
BrightVision Media – Chicago, IL
June 2020 – Present
Managed digital ad campaigns that increased online conversions by 27% in one year.
Developed SEO-focused content strategy, leading to a 35% increase in organic traffic.
Collaborated with design and sales teams to launch targeted campaigns across three industries.
Marketing Coordinator
BlueWave Consulting – Chicago, IL
January 2017 – May 2020
Supported multi-channel marketing campaigns with measurable ROI improvements.
Coordinated events, email campaigns, and product launches, generating 15% more leads annually.
Analyzed campaign performance and created monthly executive reports.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
University of Illinois at Chicago
References
Sarah Thompson
Marketing Director, BrightVision Media
(555) 678-9012 | sarah.thompson@brightvision.com
Michael Adams
Senior Consultant, BlueWave Consulting
(555) 234-5678 | michael.adams@bluewave.com
Rebecca Lee
Professor of Marketing, University of Illinois
(555) 987-6543 | rebecca.lee@uic.edu
RESUME WRITING ADVICE
When formatting references on a resume, always seek permission from your contacts before listing them. Choose people who can speak confidently about your skills and performance. Avoid personal or family references unless explicitly requested. If you’re in marketing, like in the sample above, select supervisors, clients, or professors who can highlight your creativity, communication, and results-driven approach.
FAQS ABOUT FORMATTING REFERENCES ON A RESUME
Should I always include references on my resume?
No, you should only include references if the employer requests them. Otherwise, use that space to showcase your skills and accomplishments.
How many references should I list?
Typically, 2–4 professional references are enough. Include individuals who can provide strong insights into your work and reliability.
Can I just write “References available upon request”?
It’s no longer recommended. If references are requested, include them in a clear, professional format. Otherwise, leave them off entirely.
Who makes the best professional reference?
Former managers, supervisors, professors, or colleagues who can vouch for your expertise and character are the most effective references.
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