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23 References Instructions and Template

Create Your Page of References

  1. Ask your references for their preferred contact method (email or phone) and include only that method on your reference list.
  2. To create your references page, copy and paste the template below and replace the text with your own information.
    • Use the same letterhead (with your contact information) as you used for your resume and cover letter.
  3. List your references in the order you want them to be contacted.

References Template

(At the top of the page, insert the same letterhead you used for your resume, including your name, contact info, and LinkedIn profile link.)

REFERENCES

Reference 1’s first and last name
Title of this person’s current job position
Name of the company where this person works
Relationship to You (how this person knows you)
Phone number (if the person prefers this contact method)
Email address (if the person prefers this contact method)

Reference 2’s first and last name
Title of this person’s current job position
Name of the company where this person works
Relationship to You (how this person knows you)
Phone number (if the person prefers this contact method)
Email address (if the person prefers this contact method)

Reference 3’s first and last name
Title of this person’s current job position
Name of the company where this person works
Relationship to You (how this person knows you)
Phone number (if the person prefers this contact method)
Email address (if the person prefers this contact method)

Download References Template [opens a Word document (.docx)]

 

Using References

  • Unless otherwise specified by the employer, bring your references page to every interview and offer it to the interviewer at the end of the interview.
  • Contact your references beforehand to let them know they may be called on.
    • If someone agreed to be a reference for you in the past, confirm that you still have their permission and have their updated contact information.

Do not list your references on your resume.

  • Thank your references.
    • Whether you are successful or not in getting the job, always take the time to thank your references. This will help you maintain a positive relationship with your references and may allow you to continue using them.

Reference Letters

  • Letters of reference may be acceptable in certain circumstances; however, most employers prefer references they can contact by phone or email.
  • If your reference has moved or retired, and employers cannot contact them directly, you can provide written letters you have received in addition to your reference list.
  • Reference letters are also a valuable addition to include in your professional portfolio.

 

Originally adapted from References Tips, Other Considerations, and References Template in Be the Boss of Your Career: A Complete Guide for Students & Grads, copyright © 2021 by Lindsay Bortot and the Employment Support Centre, Algonquin College, which is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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Career Guide for Health and Wellness Office Administrative Professionals, 2nd Edition Copyright © 2025 by Ellen Dilgert is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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