Printable checklist

Reference List Template

Employers ask for references late in the process and expect them quickly. Prepare the sheet now, ask permission from each person, and keep it updated.

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Before you list anyone

• Ask each person's permission and tell them which roles you're applying for
• Choose people who have seen your work: supervisors, team leads, teachers, volunteer coordinators
• Avoid family members unless they genuinely supervised you
• Confirm the phone number and email they prefer

Fields to include for each reference (three to four people)

• Full name
• Job title and organisation
• Relationship to you (e.g. direct supervisor, 2023–2025)
• Phone number
• Email address
• Best time to reach them

Formatting

• Same header (your name and contact details) as your résumé
• One page, same font as your résumé
• Title it 'References for [Your Name]'
• Save as PDF and keep a plain-text copy for online forms

After you share it

• Tell your references which employer may call and roughly when
• Thank them whatever the outcome
• Review the list every six months