Providing contact information for individuals who can attest to one’s skills, experience, and work ethic is a common practice in the job application process. Typically, this involves creating a separate document containing a header with the applicant’s name and contact details, followed by a list of three to five individuals. For each reference, include their name, title, company, phone number, and email address. It’s crucial to obtain permission from each individual before listing them.
Supplying these contacts allows potential employers to gain valuable insights from third-party perspectives, verifying information presented in resumes and cover letters. This process can significantly strengthen a candidate’s application, offering reassurance to hiring managers. The practice has evolved over time, moving from expected inclusions on resumes themselves to the current standard of providing them upon request. This shift allows applicants to maintain control over when and to whom their references are disclosed. It also avoids cluttering the resume with information that can be readily provided separately.