In today’s job market, a standout reference list can give you a real edge. With hiring processes increasingly relying on AI screening and virtual interviews, your references do more than vouch for you—they back up your experience and character. This guide shows you how to create a reference list that’s clear, credible, and tailored to your job search.

Explore Your Opportunities with TIMPL

Why References Still Matter

References aren’t just formalities. They’re trusted voices who can confirm your value as a candidate. According to a 2024 CareerBuilder survey, 70% of hiring managers contact references for top applicants. A strong endorsement can be the deciding factor.

Think of your reference list as your backup team—it reinforces everything your resume and interview say about you.

Step-by-Step: How to Build a Professional Reference List

Step 1: Choose the Right Number of References

The right number depends on your experience level:

Entry-level or student: 2–3 references (professors, internship supervisors)
Mid-career professionals: 3–4 references (managers, peers, mentors)
Executives or senior roles: 4–6 references (across departments, clients, and leadership roles)

If the job description doesn’t mention a number, aim for 3–4 well-rounded references.

Step 2: Select Individuals Who Can Speak to Your Strengths

Choose people who can highlight your accomplishments, skills, and work ethic. Good options include:

Former managers – to speak to your reliability and performance
Peers or colleagues – to highlight collaboration and problem-solving
Mentors or professors – especially for recent grads or specialists
Clients or stakeholders – if your role involved external relationships

Example: For a supply chain job, you might list a manager who led your inventory project and a teammate who worked with you on forecasting.

Avoid listing anyone who hasn’t worked with you closely or wouldn’t provide specific feedback.

Step 3: Ask for Permission and Provide Context

Always ask before listing someone as a reference. Explain the role you’re applying for and what you hope they’ll mention.

Sample message:
"Hi [Name], I’m applying for a [Job Title] at [Company] and was wondering if you’d be comfortable serving as a reference. Would you be open to talking about our work on [specific project]? I’d be happy to share the job description."

If you're reaching out by text message, keep it short and respectful:
"Hey [Name], quick question—would you be okay with me listing you as a reference for a role I’m applying to? I can send you more details if needed."

Giving them context helps them prepare—and gives you stronger support.

Step 4: Format Your List Professionally

Match your reference list to your resume’s look and feel. Use the same font, spacing, and contact header. Here’s a format to follow:

Your Name
[Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn URL]

Reference 1
Name: [Full Name]
Title: [Job Title]
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [City, State]
Phone: [Phone Number]
Email: [Email Address]
Context: Former manager at [Company], supervised me during [project or timeframe]

Repeat for each reference.

Step 5: Keep It Current

Review your reference list every few months:

Check that contact info is up to date
Replace or rotate references based on your current goals
Let your references know when you’re actively applying

Make sure your references are aligned with your job goals—miscommunication or outdated info can work against you.

What Happens During a Reference Check?

Most hiring managers ask questions like:

What was it like to work with this person?
What are their strengths and areas for growth?
Would you hire them again?
How did they handle pressure or deadlines?

They’re listening for consistency with what you’ve shared in your resume and interviews. That’s why prepping your references is so important.

If you suspect a reference might give lukewarm or negative feedback, it’s okay to leave them off the list. You’re not obligated to include every former manager—only those who will genuinely support you.

Sample Phrases You Can Suggest to Your References

If they ask how they can help, suggest a few short statements that reflect your impact:

"She met production targets ahead of schedule and with zero errors."
"He led our logistics improvements and reduced delivery time by 12%."
"They played a key role in our safety efforts and helped reduce incidents."

Providing suggestions like these makes their job easier—and helps highlight what matters most.

Who Makes the Best References? A Quick Comparison

FAQs

Should I include references on my resume?
No. Submit them separately—only if the employer asks for them.

What if I don’t have professional references yet?
Start with professors, volunteer coordinators, or mentors who’ve seen your work ethic.

Can I use personal references?
Only if they’ve worked with you in a professional capacity—avoid friends and family.

What if a reference shares something they shouldn't?
References should stick to professional observations. Sharing protected personal details—like your age, health, or family status—can cross legal boundaries. If in doubt, choose someone else.

Should I thank my references?
Absolutely. A short thank-you note or message shows professionalism and appreciation.

Final Takeaway

Your reference list is more than just a form—it's a strategic part of your job search. Choose the right people, prep them well, and format your list with care. Done right, it confirms your value and gives hiring managers another reason to say yes.

Need help with other parts of your application?

Talk to an Expert.