Who To Ask For References and How To List Them on Your CV (Hint: Don’t!)

The reference checking process can feel stressful. After all, what someone else says about you is partly outside your control. But by being strategic about who you ask and how you present your references, you can approach it with confidence.

Below, our executive CV writers in the UK answer the most common questions candidates ask about employment references.

Should I list employment references on my CV?

No. You don’t need to list references directly on your CV.

• Employers assume you’ll have references available if asked.

• You don’t need to add “references available upon request” either — it wastes space.

• Early in the application process, recruiters only want to know whether your CV demonstrates fit for the role.

Keep your CV focused on achievements and impact. Save your referees’ details for later in the process, once there’s genuine interest in your candidacy.

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Should I provide references on an online application?

If an application form specifically requires references, then yes — provide them.

Large organisations sometimes collect referee details upfront, but HR rarely contacts them until you’ve progressed through initial interviews.

If you’re not comfortable sharing a referee’s personal email or phone number in an online form, check if you can use a work contact detail instead, or ask your referee what they prefer.

What should I do before I list someone as a reference?

Always ask permission first. This ensures two things:

1. Your referee is comfortable and willing to speak positively on your behalf.

2. They’re prepared — so they’re not caught off guard by a call.

A good referee will usually feel honoured to be asked. If someone sounds hesitant or lukewarm, it’s a signal to look elsewhere.

Who can I list if I didn’t leave my last job on good terms?

Not every manager makes a good reference. If your last role ended badly, don’t panic. Employers understand these situations happen.

Alternatives include:

• A trusted colleague or supervisor who can vouch for your work.

• Managers from earlier roles who know your strengths.

• Clients or partners you’ve worked with.

• University professors (for graduates).

• Community leaders or trustees who can attest to your character.

If pressed about why you can’t provide a reference from your last employer, give a brief, professional explanation without criticising your former boss. Recruiters value honesty and maturity.

How do I present my references?

Prepare a separate reference sheet to share when requested. Include:

• Name

• Job title & company

• Email address

• Phone number

• Brief context (“Jane managed me in my Senior Analyst role at HSBC”)

Bring this with you to interviews, or keep it ready to send by email. Having it organised shows professionalism and makes life easier for recruiters.

Why do employers ask for references?

In one word: trust.

Reference checks help employers confirm:

• That your CV is factually accurate (dates, titles, responsibilities).

• That your achievements reflect how you’re perceived by others.

• That their positive impression of you matches reality.

Sometimes references are detailed phone calls; other times they’re just quick employment verifications. Either way, if you’ve chosen referees you trust and been honest in your CV, you have nothing to fear.

Final Thought

References are important, but they’re not something to stress over. By preparing in advance, asking the right people, and keeping details off your CV until requested, you’ll handle this stage with ease.

At CV Pilots, we help executives not only craft recruiter-approved CVs but also prepare for every stage of the process — from applications to reference checks.

To find out more, visit our website www.cvpilots.co.uk If you have any further questions, you can either book a consultation call with one of our team, or get in touch via email on team@cvpilots.co.uk