How to List Referees on a Resume

Referees (or references) are people who can vouch for your professional abilities, character, and work performance. While many employers no longer request referee details during the initial application stage, some still do — especially in government, education, healthcare, and executive roles.

Knowing who to choose, how to present them, and when to share them can make a strong difference in your job search. This guide explains everything you need to know, including who counts as a referee, how many to list, where to include them, and how to ask someone to be a referee in a professional way.

References vs Referees — What’s the Difference?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean slightly different things:

• Reference: The written or verbal recommendation itself — e.g. a reference letter or verbal feedback given to an employer.
• Referee: The person providing that reference — e.g. your former manager.

If an employer asks for references, they usually want written documents. If they ask for referees, they want names and contact details.

Who Can Be Your Referees?

Choose people who can confidently speak about your work performance, behaviour, skills and results. They should know you well enough to provide specific examples.

✔ Former or Current Supervisors

Ideal for most roles. They can speak directly about your performance, responsibilities and strengths.

Note: Only use your current manager if they know you are job searching.

✔ Colleagues or Coworkers

Useful when they have worked closely with you on major projects or daily tasks.

✔ Clients or Customers

Perfect if your role involved stakeholder management, sales, service delivery, or project work.

✔ Mentors or Professional Advisors

Ideal if you have been coached, supervised or guided in your career development.

✔ Professors or Academic Supervisors

Useful for graduates or early-career applicants when work experience is limited.

✔ Professional or Industry Contacts

Great for roles requiring industry credibility, networking, or technical expertise.

✔ Volunteer Coordinators

Strong option when volunteering forms part of your experience or demonstrates key qualities.

✔ Business Partners or Co-Founders

Useful for applicants with entrepreneurial backgrounds.

Where to Include Referees on a Resume

Most resumes should not list referees unless the job ad specifically requests them.

Instead, create a separate document titled “Reference List” that matches your resume formatting. Include:

• Name
• Job title
• Company
• Phone number
• Email address
• Brief note on your relationship (optional)

Example:

Jane Doe  
Sales Director, ABC Corporation  
Phone: (03) 9123 4567  
Email: jane.doe@email.com  

Only attach this page when explicitly requested — usually late in the hiring process.

How Many Referees Should You List?

The standard recommendation is:

• Two referees for most roles
• Three referees for senior, executive or government roles

Always choose quality over quantity. One strong, relevant referee is worth more than three general ones.

Tip: Match the referee to the role. If you’re applying for a leadership role, prioritise someone who can speak about your leadership, mentoring or team management skills.

How to Ask Someone to Be a Referee

You should never list someone as a referee without asking them first. You need their permission — and you want them prepared to give a strong, confident reference.

1. Choose the right people

Select individuals who:

• worked closely with you,
• can speak positively and specifically,
• are relevant to the role you’re applying for.

2. Contact them in advance

Send a message, email or make a quick call. Explain your job search, the type of roles you’re applying for, and why you value their support.

3. Give context

Share details about:

• the job title and company,
• key responsibilities,
• skills the employer is focusing on.

4. Provide your resume

This helps them recall specific achievements or projects they can talk about.

5. Highlight key points

If there’s something specific you’d like them to mention — a project, a skill, a measurable result — tell them.

6. Keep them informed

Let them know when you’ve applied and if the employer might contact them.

7. Express gratitude

Always thank your referees. These people are investing their time and reputation to support your career.

Should You Write “References Available Upon Request”?

No — it’s outdated and not necessary.

Employers already assume you will provide referees when required, so this phrase takes up valuable space without adding value.

Creating a “Go-To” Referee List

One of the smartest things you can do is build a ready-to-use referee list that you can update over time. This should include:

• supervisors from previous roles,
• project leads you worked closely with,
• mentors or advisors,
• clients you delivered major outcomes for,
• volunteer coordinators if relevant.

Keep their details updated, and stay in touch every 6–12 months so the relationship remains warm.

Final Thoughts

Referees are more than names at the end of an application — they are trusted advocates for your professional reputation. Choose them wisely, prepare them properly, and only provide them when requested.

If you’d like help selecting strong referees, writing your referee list, or strengthening the rest of your CV, our Australian CV experts can guide you.

Request a FREE CV review at info@cvwriters.com.au and we’ll give you personalised recommendations.