References on a CV: Should You Write «References Available Upon Request»?

References used to be a standard final section of every CV. Today most recruiters only contact referees at the very end of the process, after an interview. That changes what belongs on the page.

Is «References available upon request» still needed?

No. Recruiters assume you can provide references, so the line uses space without adding information. Remove it and use the space for a result or a skill instead.

When to list references on the CV

• The job ad explicitly asks for them.
• You apply in a market where it is still common, such as some roles in Australia, the Gulf or academic and public-sector jobs.
• A well-known referee in your field carries real weight, for example a respected professor for a first research job.

How to format a reference

1. Full name and job title.
2. Organisation.
3. Relationship: «Line manager, 2021–2024».
4. Email and phone number.

Two or three references are enough. Put the most recent manager first.

Who to choose

• Former managers who saw your results directly.
• Senior colleagues or clients for freelancers.
• Lecturers or internship supervisors if you are a graduate.
• Not family members or friends without a professional connection.

Prepare your referees

Always ask permission first. Then send them the job ad and a short note on the two or three points you would like them to confirm. A referee who knows what the role needs gives a far stronger recommendation.

Keep your current employer protected

If you are still employed, say that your current manager can be contacted only after an offer. Recruiters understand this.

References confirm your CV; they do not replace it. The CV still has to win the interview.