When to Include Professional References on Your CV

Including professional references on your CV is a debatable practice, depending on your industry and the specific hiring process. While some may argue that including references in your CV is beneficial, many experts recommend waiting until a potential employer asks for them. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision.

The Standard Practice

Significant professional advice often emphasizes that you shouldn’t include references on your resume unless explicitly asked. The keyword 'professional references' is crucial, as it reflects the preferences of many employers. Including references on your resume takes up valuable space and might not add necessary value.

Why Not Include References on Your CV?

There are several reasons why you should avoid including references with your resume initially:

Space Constraints - A clean and concise CV is more effective. Listing references takes up precious space that could be used for highlighting your achievements and experiences. Customization - It’s often beneficial to tailor your references to specific job applications. Using different references for different positions can significantly impact your chances of getting hired. Permission and Privacy - Always obtain permission from your references and inform them that you might be providing their contact information to potential employers.

How to Handle the Request for References

When an employer asks for references, here’s what you can do:

Review Your References - Ensure that your references are up to date, relevant, and willing to provide a positive endorsement. Provide Contact Information - Offer your references’ current contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses. Coach Your References - Brief your references about the job position and your role within the company, so they can tailor their comments accordingly.

Alternative Methods to Highlight Endorsements

Instead of listing references, consider including the following to highlight endorsements from former employers:

Recommendation Letters - These can stand out and provide a more detailed insight into your professional capabilities. Professional Testimonials - You can ask satisfied clients or past colleagues for testimonials and include them in your portfolio or portfolio section of your CV. LinkedIn Endorsements - Leverage professional endorsements on LinkedIn to strengthen your credibility.

Industry-Specific Considerations

Lucinda Kerrigan, a certified professional résumé writer (CPRW), suggests that the practice of including references can vary by industry. For instance, sectors like keyword 'construction' might have different expectations. Therefore, it’s essential to tailor your approach to the industry you are applying to:

Research the company’s preferences to understand their expectations. Contact the HR department if you cannot find the information online. If you decide to include references, provide a statement that references are available upon request, rather than listing them outright.

Conclusion

Including professional references on your CV is a nuanced decision. While it’s not universally recommended, waiting to provide references until requested can help you make the most of your CV space and tailor your references to each application. Always prepare your references in advance and ensure they are willing and able to support your candidacy.