Reference List Template Printable
One-Minute Summary
This printable reference list template provides a clean format for listing professional references: name, title, company, phone, email, relationship. Typically 3-5 references. Print on U.S. Letter paper. Have it ready when employers ask. These are formatting tools — they do not guarantee job outcomes. Many hiring managers request references as a standard step in the process.
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Print Settings
- Paper: U.S. Letter (8.5" × 11")
- Orientation: portrait
- Scale: 100%
- Margins: Default (0.5")
- 💡 Ask permission first. Verify contact info. Brief references before checks.
What’s on this reference list template
Name, title, company, contact, relationship. 3-5 professional references. These are formatting tools — they do not guarantee job outcomes. Many hiring managers request references as a standard step.
How to use this template — 2 real scenarios
Scenario 1: First job out of school
Professors, internship supervisors. List 3. Confirm each will give a positive reference. Have backups.
Scenario 2: Experienced professional
Former managers, colleagues. 3-5 references. Avoid current employer unless discussed. Keep list updated.
Example fill-out
Jane Smith, Senior Manager at Tech Solutions. Phone, email. Relationship: Former manager 2019-2022. Mike Chen, Professor. Academic advisor.
Common mistakes (and how to fix them)
- Not asking permission. Always confirm before listing.
- Outdated contact info. Verify before each search.
- Wrong people. Choose those who can speak to your work.
- Not briefing them. Give a heads-up before employer contacts.
- Including relatives. Use professional references.
Customization tips
3-5 references. Brief them before checks. Update regularly. Separate page from resume.
Printing Tips
- Print on U.S. Letter (8.5" × 11") in portrait orientation
- Scale: 100% (do not use "Fit to Page")
- Margins: Default (0.5")
- 💡 Ask permission first. Verify contact info. Brief references before checks.
Next step in your meal prep workflow:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many references should I list?
Typically 3-5. Employers often contact 1-2. Have backups if someone is unavailable. More than 5 is usually unnecessary.
Who should I ask?
Former managers, supervisors, professors, or colleagues who can speak to your work. People who will give a positive, specific reference. Avoid current employer unless you've discussed it.
Should I include my current manager?
Only if you've told them you're job searching and they've agreed. Many employers understand not contacting current employer until an offer is imminent. Have other strong references ready.
What if a reference says no?
Respect it. Move to the next person. Don't list someone who hasn't agreed. A reluctant reference can hurt more than help.
Can references guarantee I get the job?
No. References are one step. Many hiring managers use them to confirm what they've learned. Strong references support your case; they don't secure offers alone. Outcomes depend on many factors.