Providing References

by David Rawles

Should your references be included on the resume or as an attachment to the resume?

Included on the resume? No. Attached to the resume? No. It is just too early in almost every situation to hand out reference lists. Unless a prospective employer specifically asks for references along with your resume, there is no benefit to providing them until after an interview.

However, during your resume preparation, it is a good time to consider who from your work experience would be a good reference to list. As you review your work history, make notes of bosses, peers, subordinates, customers and others who would likely substantiate your skills, values and accomplishments. Also make note of those who would be articulate and credible when making their comments about you.

Once you have a list of 10 to 20 possible references then you need to... Read More