From Our DMs

Hello Lefort, I’m a recent graduate, waiting to be called for NYSC. I’d love to have a job in the meantime while I decide what to do fully. I want to ask, is it important for me to include references in my cv? I’m trying to be careful so I would appreciate some help.

A**** from Portharcourt

 

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If you include references in your CV, they should be professionals who can vouch for your skills, character, and work performance. If you know three to five individuals who can provide relevant information about you, you may choose to include them in a reference list in your CV to make your qualifications stand out to employers.

When adding references to your CV, include individuals who are professionals and who have an unbiased opinion of your work performance. Similarly, you must have a prior working relationship with the people you include as references. Here are some specific individuals who would make good references for your CV:

-Previous and current employers

-Managers and team leaders

-Colleagues and business partners

-Coaches and trainers

-Professors and teachers

-Academic supervisors

When should I include references in a CV?

Typically, including a reference list in your CV isn't a necessity, but it can be effective for impressing employers and adding credibility to your qualifications and experience. If you are still wondering if you should include references, use this guide:

-The employer requests your references

-The job description instructs you to include them

- Your reference will give you glowing remarks

- If you have additional space for a reference list, why not!

How to include references in your CV

Follow these steps to properly format your reference list in either case:

-       Always ask permission to use a person as a reference

-       State the reference's full name and job title.

-       Include the reference's company and work address.

-       List the reference's phone number and email.

-       Give a brief description of your relationship.

We must say though that references are a good way for others to vouch for your credibility, competency, and professionalism. However, unless asked, don't put references on your cv.