Should You Include “References Available Upon Request” on Your Resume?

Introduction

Your resume is your first impression on hiring managers. It should reflect professionalism, clarity, and relevance. One common debate many job seekers have is whether or not to include the phrase “References Available Upon Request” on their resumes.

While it might seem like a polite and expected phrase, times have changed. In this article, we’ll discuss whether this phrase adds any real value, when it might still be useful, alternatives you can use, and how to handle references more effectively to strengthen your job application.

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Why “References Available Upon Request” Is No Longer Needed

There was a time when including this phrase was a standard practice. Today, however, hiring managers and recruiters expect candidates to provide references if and when they’re required. Here’s why it’s best to leave it out:

1. Redundant Information

Recruiters already know that candidates will provide references if asked. Stating the obvious doesn’t add any meaningful value.

2. Wastes Valuable Space

On a resume—especially a one-pager—every line should be used strategically. Using space for unnecessary phrases could mean omitting a key skill, achievement, or experience.

3. Missed Opportunity to Impress

Your resume should end with a strong statement—a key achievement or certification that reinforces your value—not a generic phrase like this one.

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When Is It Acceptable to Include the Phrase?

If you’re applying in a more traditional industry, such as academia, government roles, or international markets, this phrase might still be acceptable. In such cases, follow these tips:

• Use a Footer: Place the line in a minimal format in the resume footer, out of the main content’s way.
• Keep It Subtle: Don’t make it a headline or a prominent line.
• Do Not Use It on ATS-Optimized Resumes: Applicant tracking systems (ATS) prioritize keywords, so this phrase offers no benefit.

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How to Handle References Professionally

Rather than stating the obvious on your resume, you should prepare a dedicated references document that you can share when requested. This shows you’re well-prepared and organized.

✅ What to Include in a Separate References Sheet:

• Full Name
• Job Title
• Company Name
• Company Address (Optional)
• Contact Information (Phone and Email)
• Relationship to You (e.g., Former Manager, Colleague)

✅ Best Practices:

• Always notify your references in advance.
• Confirm their preferred contact method.
• Share the job description so they can tailor their responses.

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Additional Resume Phrases to Avoid

Here are some commonly overused or outdated resume phrases and what to use instead:

❌ “Hard Worker”

Use action-driven words like:

• Diligent
• Reliable
• Goal-oriented

❌ “Self-Starter” / “Go-Getter”

Replace with:

• “Initiated a new onboarding process, reducing training time by 30%.”

❌ “Think Outside the Box”

Opt for tangible results:

• “Developed a new process that saved the company $10,000 annually.”

❌ “Team Player”

Instead of saying it, show it:

• “Collaborated with marketing and product teams to launch 3 successful campaigns.”

Pros and Cons of Including the Phrase

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Shows you’re prepared to offer references	Takes up valuable space
Protects privacy until needed	Seen as outdated by most recruiters
Allows flexibility to change referees	Misses opportunity to include value-adding content
May be expected in some traditional fields	May prolong the hiring process if references are urgent

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Better Ways to End Your Resume

Instead of “References Available Upon Request,” consider ending your resume with:

• A relevant certification (e.g., Certified ScrumMaster, Google Ads Certified)
• A career achievement (e.g., “Exceeded sales targets for 8 consecutive quarters”)
• A skills summary or software proficiencies (e.g., CRM, Adobe Suite, SQL)

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Bonus: Resume Tips to Enhance Professional Appeal

• Tailor your resume with keywords from the job description.
• Use bullet points and action verbs to describe accomplishments.
• Quantify results where possible (e.g., “Increased website traffic by 50%”).
• Always include a customized cover letter for each application.

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Conclusion

In competitive job market, your resume should communicate value, professionalism, and results. Phrases like “References Available Upon Request” are now seen as unnecessary and can weaken your final impression.

Instead, use a dedicated references document, reserve resume space for skills and achievements, and close with a powerful statement. That’s how you leave a lasting impression and boost your chances of landing interviews.

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