Not sure who to list as a reference? Our AI advisor recommends the best references for your target role and experience level. Plus, format your reference page professionally in seconds.
Generate a draft reference statement to send to your reference person. They can review, personalize, and use it when contacted.
Their name, title, and how they know you (manager, colleague, mentor, etc.)
Skills, projects, and accomplishments you want the reference to mention
The strongest references are the ones who can speak specifically to the role you are targeting. A direct manager who observed your day-to-day work, a mentor who watched you grow, or a colleague who partnered with you on a major project.
A reference who is briefed on the role you are applying to can deliver a tighter, more persuasive answer. Sending them a short reference draft gives them a running start and saves their time.
Your most powerful reference. They can speak to your day-to-day performance, work ethic, and professional growth. Best for: almost every job application.
Peers can speak to your teamwork, collaboration skills, and how you operate among equals. Especially valuable for team-oriented roles.
Client references demonstrate your ability to manage external relationships, meet expectations, and deliver results. Ideal for client-facing roles.
Academic or professional mentors can vouch for your potential, character, and intellectual capabilities. Essential for entry-level candidates with limited work history.
Include professors, internship supervisors, or volunteer coordinators. Quality matters more than quantity at this stage.
Mix of direct managers and colleagues from recent positions. Include at least one supervisor who can speak to your leadership potential.
Include a mix of supervisors, peers, and direct reports. Board members or industry leaders add significant weight at this level.
Use the same header (name, contact info) as your resume for a cohesive look
List each reference with: Full Name, Job Title, Company, Phone, Email, and Relationship
Order references by relevance to the target role, most relevant first
Use consistent formatting: same font, spacing, and layout as your resume
Include 'References' or 'Professional References' as a clear page title
Keep it to one page. If you have more than 5, select the most relevant
Never list someone as a reference without asking. Reach out via email or phone and explain the role you're applying for.
Share the job description and highlight which skills or experiences you'd like them to emphasize.
Provide a summary of your key accomplishments during your time working together to refresh their memory.
Let your references know when they might be contacted so they can prepare thoughtful responses.
Always thank your references, whether or not you get the job. A brief update on the outcome shows professionalism.
Always get permission first. An unprepared reference can do more harm than good.
Verify all phone numbers and email addresses before submitting your reference page.
Three strong references beat five lukewarm ones. Choose people who genuinely support your candidacy.
Personal references carry little weight. Stick to professional contacts who can speak to your work.
Tailor your references to each role. A tech lead reference matters more for an engineering role than a marketing position.
This phrase is outdated. Instead, prepare a separate reference page and submit it when asked.
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