Resumania: How Best to Handle References

From listing peculiar hobbies to noting their marital status, job seekers often make the mistake of supplying prospective employers with superfluous information.

One of the most common, and unnecessary, statements to include on a resume is "References available upon request." Hiring managers are well aware that candidates will provide these contacts when asked.

The following applicants would have received poor marks for thoroughness:

RESUME: "Refer available upon request."

We'd prefer your references.

"REFERENCES: Note to self, get a recommendation letter, too."

Note to us: Better ask about attention to detail.

This next job seeker's muddled directive proved perplexing:

"REFERENCES: Here are my references. Do not contact the people listed as references."

Then why provide them?

When an employer requests your references, provide the names of individuals you're certain can speak to your work ethic and professionalism. As you begin your job search, inform your contacts about the types of positions for which you are applying. In addition, send them a copy of your resume so they can be prepared to discuss your skills and experience. Also, remember that personal contacts, such as family members or friends, are best left off your reference list since a hiring manager is unlikely to consider their opinions to be objective.

"REFERENCES: My landscaper."

A reference who will give you two green thumbs up.

"REFERENCES: Scott."

We'll need a little more to go on.

Finally, avoid self-deprecating remarks:

"REFERENCES: I have several people who are not embarrassed to admit that they know me."