When creating your CV, you should include a reference section, but it should just say, "Available upon request". This is common business practice, and it frees up valuable space on your CV for you to talk about your work experience. You should create a separate references document that matches the look and format of your CV and send out when you are asked for references.
You want to include the following information for each referee:
- Full name
- Relationship to you
- Job title and company name (if applicable)
- Postal address
- Telephone number
- Email address
Picking a good referee
When picking a referee, it is ideal to pick someone from your employment history. A former supervisor is best, as the recruiter will see that person as ideally placed to evaluate you as an employee. If you have been away from the job market for a while, someone responsible who has known you for a while can be a good substitute. It would be great if that person also works in your field, as it makes it easier for the recruiter to discuss your work capabilities.
Not only should you make sure you let your referees know that you put them down for a reference, but you should also let them know about your career aspirations.
Example:
Olivia Smith
Sales director
ABC Company
10 Store Street, City XX0 0XX
02071234567
olivia.smith@abccompany.com
If you find that you are receiving a bad reference from a former employer, consult our article, References - legal overview.
