How to Create a Reference Sheet for a Resume
If you've spent any time lately looking for a job, you know that the competition can be brutal. That's why making a good first impression is so important. Your cover letter, resume, and any references you include must convey both style and substance at a glance. So how do you craft a reference sheet that will give your candidacy the edge it deserves?
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Instructions
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References: A Bridge to Your Future
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You should never include a reference sheet unless it's been specifically requested. So gather any information you can about what your potential employer is looking for. Are they more interested in hearing from a personal friend about your character, or talking to old employers about work habits? Knowing this will help you select references that can best speak to your qualifications.
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Call your references ahead of time and let them know they're going to be contacted. If it's been a while since you worked together, this can be a good time to review your relationship, reminding them of the highlights of your employment.
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Put your name at the top using the same font and size as your resume, followed by your contact information. Then provide the full name of your first reference (including any title such as Dr., Rev., or Professor) marked in the left margin by a bullet point or initial number. Write out the contact information of your reference as you would a mailing address, on separate lines. Then state your relationship in a single sentence, such as "Dr. Hadley was my supervisor when I worked at the Beckfield Energy Collider." Repeat these steps for the final two references.
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Tips & Warnings
Of course, what your references say about you is more important than how you present them. But in today's competitive job market, you've got to have both.
