How many references should you have

You can provide a list of references after your interview if it is requested. Users questions. How many references should you include in your resume? What questions do references get asked? Do employers call all three references? Can I use someone as a reference without asking? Can you fake references? Can you have 2 references from the same job? Do interviewers actually call references? Is it a good sign if they ask for references after an interview? I advise clients to keep a master list of references from which they can pull the most appropriate 3 max 4 to provide for a particular position.

I also recommend clients contact references whose names and contact information is being provided so they are not caught off-guard by a call. There are 2 advantages to the job seeker of doing this:. By continuing, you agree to Monster's privacy policy , terms of use and use of cookies.

Search Career Advice. Get your references together for your job search An employer may ask for a reference list when considering you for a job. Get the reference format and protocol right by following these expert tips. Kim Isaacs, Monster Resume Expert. There's a right way to reach out to trusted references. Related Articles. Browse articles by Find The Right Career Path. Professional Development. Use the following guidelines as you ask individuals in your network to be your references:.

Maintain positive relationships with professionals in your industry. The connections you build with other employees in your field can widen your selection when choosing job references.

Be mindful of your professional reputation and how your colleagues perceive you, which can increase your confidence that your references may speak in your favor when contacted. Follow the employer's directions for submitting references. Some employers may require you to turn in the references during the application process, while others may not request it until the second or third round of interviews.

Only submit the names and contact details of your references when the hiring manager requests it. Consider your relationship with the reference. Think about the workplace interactions you've shared with the professional you want to serve as your reference. It might be helpful to ask someone who can provide examples of your skill set and speak highly of your credentials to the employer. Ask the reference about what information to give the employer.

When submitting the references, the employer may require you to include contact details, such as phone number, email address and mailing address. As a courtesy, ask the reference what information they prefer the employer to use when contacting them.

You can express your gratitude to them for vouching for your qualifications and show you have respect for their time. Customize your reference list to specific jobs. Edit your list of references to ensure your contacts can provide information relevant to the position you're seeking. For example, if you're applying for a role in retail, then it might be helpful to include references who worked alongside you in the retail industry. Find jobs. Company reviews. Find salaries. Upload your resume.