Should I put References on a Resume?

[jane_ackerman - 2010]

I use to have a 1 page resume, but it just isn't possible anymore.
It's 1.5 pages.

At the bottom, I always list "References & Portfolio - Available upon request"

However, with this 1/2 page left, there is room to put my references right on the resume... that way, they could actually call my references and check me out before even calling me (if they so desired).

Is this advisable or no?
Why or why not.

I know many people do the same thing I usually do... but I feel that I have nothing to hide... check me out first if you want to.

Your thoughts?

[Duke Okes]

Personally I think it's better to be "up front" rather than try to withhold info in hopes they'll be curious. However, I don't know the data to support the viability of each option.

It might depend on whether the references were perceived to be of folks of high value, or just the standard "my last manager/supervisor."

[Jim Wynne]

In Reply to Parent Post by jane_ackerman

I use to have a 1 page resume, but it just isn't possible anymore.
It's 1.5 pages.

At the bottom, I always list "References & Portfolio - Available upon request"

However, with this 1/2 page left, there is room to put my references right on the resume... that way, they could actually call my references and check me out before even calling me (if they so desired).

Is this advisable or no?
Why or why not.

I know many people do the same thing I usually do... but I feel that I have nothing to hide... check me out first if you want to.

Your thoughts?

I think it doesn't matter much, but if you're going to identify your references, they should be made aware of it. Some people might not like the idea of their names and phone numbers being distributed all over creation.

[jane_ackerman - 2010]

In Reply to Parent Post by Duke Okes

It might depend on whether the references were perceived to be of folks of high value, or just the standard "my last manager/supervisor."

Well... as you just read my current situation (from a different post)... my business references include the following people with whom I have worked for and with, for the last 13 years... Quality Manager, General Manager, Human Resources Manager, former QE (now a Quality Manager elsewhere) and Quality Systems Expert.

Using a reference further back than 13 yrs almost seems pointless.

[jane_ackerman - 2010]

In Reply to Parent Post by Jim Wynne

I think it doesn't matter much, but if you're going to identify your references, they should be made aware of it. Some people might not like the idea of their names and phone numbers being distributed all over creation.

I totally agree... and I have asked each and every one in advance.
But thanks anyway.

[Icy Mountain]

Your resume is too long. Condense back down to 1 page. You will have at least one line when you take out references to "References & Portfolio - Available upon request". Of course you have references and of course they are available. Would you put "I want a job that pays money" on your resume?

I'll bet that your resume tries to be everything to everyone. Tailor it to each position and reduce the content about things unrelated to the position. References are the same way: they need to be customized to the position. When someone asks, get their contact info and promise the information the next day via phone, email or fax. Contact your references first and brief them before you send the list.

There are multiple threads here on this topic. You will find some excellent advice in this search for Resume or Resumes.

PS> NEVER give a cold list of your references to anyone. You have no idea who might end up with the list. I know that some (bad) recruiters use a reference list as a hunting ground. This is the paper equivalent of copying your email address book to everyone in your address book, say hello to the spammers. Your references are one one of your two most valuable assets in a job search. Treat them that way. The other asset is your experience.

[jane_ackerman - 2010]

In Reply to Parent Post by Icy Mountain

I'll bet that your resume tries to be everything to everyone.

How much would you like to wager?

[gpainter]

I have a one pager, which is said to be best, and do the same. I have had one ask but never checked and I have had several put me down and have never been called.