Most of us know that in most cases we’ll need to provide 2 references in our resume. Is this really necessary? First of all, let me emphasize to you that having references is necessary but it is not mandatory for you to put your references (or call it referees) in your resume. As a matter of fact, I would encourage you NOT to put them in your resume. The only circumstance where you should put them in your resume is that when you’re running out of idea where else to keep the contacts of your references.

The reason is simple; first, as much as we can, we want to be the first to know whenever an employer makes contact with your references. In certain countries, it is even illegal for employers to contact your referees before letting you know of their intention. I know employers will not like what I say. But to give us justice, we want the prospective employer to evaluate our own good self first before listening to someone else’s opinion about us.

Secondly, most job seekers do not put legitimate references in their resume. Or simply put, they do not know who their references are. They thought references can be just about anyone. They put college friends, team mates, work colleagues, or even husband or father rather than their academic supervisor, immediate manager or higher manager. In this case, the only good thing references do is filling up a gap or space in your resume. Sooner or later, when it comes to the later stage of hiring, they will be asked to provide other referees.

So better save that priceless space of your resume to fill up better information. As for the references part, you can always leave the following sample remarks at the end of the resume:

References: Available upon request.

[tags] resume, sample resume, job, malaysia [/tags]

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