Key Takeaways
Three approaches exist: full reference details, "References available upon request," or no mention at all.The phrase protects your referees' privacy and gives you control over when they're contacted.It also takes up space and can weaken your CV's closing statement without adding real value.A separate reference document or a strong LinkedIn profile are effective alternatives.Every word on a CV should earn its place, so weigh this phrase carefully before including it.
You've spent hours crafting the perfect description of your work experience, carefully avoiding cliché buzzwords. At the bottom of the page sits a blank space where your references would normally go. Whilst this phrase alone will not damage your application, several drawbacks are worth considering before adding references in a CV.
Three options exist: detail your references in full, state "References Available Upon Request," or omit any mention of references entirely.
(upbeat music) - Emma, "Should I put references available upon request on my CV, versus listing my referees?" - That's a really good question, and I would actually not recommend doing either of those things. It gives you more control over the interview process if you don't disclose your references prior to actually engaging with a hiring manager. Writing "references available on request" as well takes up valuable space on your resume where you could be highlighting more of your skills and your experience. - Yeah, you could use that space for a link to your LinkedIn page where there are your references and recommendations on there as well. (upbeat music)
Why your CV should include "References available upon request"
Reference checks are typically the final step of the hiring process. The space a full list of reference contact details occupies is better devoted to outlining the strengths and attributes you bring to the role. Adding the phrase "references available upon request" is a practical middle ground.
Privacy protection
Your CV may be uploaded to job-matching sites or emailed to numerous prospective employers. The person providing your reference may not want their contact information shared so widely. In this scenario, "references available upon request" is a more viable solution than listing full details.
Greater control over the process
Including this phrase lets you decide when and to whom your references are introduced. It creates an opportunity to speak with your references beforehand, brief them on the role, and let them know someone may contact them. A well-briefed reference can tailor their responses to fit the position and will not be caught off guard.
Related: Free resume templates
Why not to include "References available upon request"
Whilst this phrase will not damage your application, several drawbacks are worth considering before adding it.
It lengthens the hiring process
Requiring a hiring manager to follow up with you for reference details creates additional work for them. Managers in a rush may favour candidates who already have all details ready and available.
It takes up valuable space
Every hiring manager expects candidates to have references. Including a sentence to confirm this occupies limited space, one of the reasons references in a CV are often left out entirely. Removing it allows you to use that space more effectively.
It is a weak closing statement
Your CV should set you apart from other candidates and finish on a strong note. "References available upon request" does not achieve that. Providing the contact details of references who can vouch for your listed skills and experience is a more compelling way to close.
Alternative ways to present your references
Create a separate reference document
Compile your references into a standalone, professionally formatted document. Once a potential employer requests references, you can send this across quickly and clearly. Always ask permission from anyone you plan to include before adding them.
Use LinkedIn
Keep your profile current: An up-to-date LinkedIn profile signals professionalism and makes it easy for hiring managers to find relevant information quickly.Request endorsements and recommendations: Testimonials from colleagues and managers showcase your experience in a format recruiters actively consult.Treat LinkedIn as a live reference page: While omitting references from your CV at the application stage may be standard etiquette, an active profile full of recommendations is an effective way to surface that social proof.
Final considerations
Ultimately, every word in your CV should earn its place. Proceed with caution before adding "references available upon request," and make sure current, relevant references are ready to provide when requested.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should you put "references available upon request" on a CV?
No. Including this phrase is no longer recommended on modern CVs. Hiring managers already assume you have references who can vouch for your work experience. The phrase occupies limited page space without adding any new value to your application.
Why do people use "references available upon request" on resumes?
Many applicants use "references available upon request" as a practical middle ground to protect their professional network's privacy. It prevents former managers' contact details from being uploaded to public job-matching sites or shared widely without their explicit consent.
Does omitting references in a CV look bad to recruiters?
Not at all. Removing references or the phrase "references available upon request" is standard modern etiquette. Recruiters prefer that candidates use the space to highlight skills, work achievements, and measurable attributes.
When do employers actually ask for your references?
Reference checks are almost always the final step of the hiring process. Employers rarely consult them during initial screening, so no reference details are needed when first submitting a CV.
What should you do instead of listing references in a CV?
Create a separate, standalone reference document formatted to match your CV. Keep this file ready to email immediately once a potential employer requests it.
A LinkedIn profile packed with colleague recommendations also serves as a live, continuous source of social proof.
How do you give references greater control over the hiring process?
Waiting until an employer requests your references creates an opportunity to brief your contacts in advance. You can share the job description, explain the specific role, and ensure they are not caught off guard by an unexpected call or email.
