How many references for a resume?

Question

I've been in the same job now for about six-seven years, and I'm updating my resume. Normally, you're supposed to have three references, but most of my bosses at my old jobs years ago have moved on, and I have no way to get in contact with them (or even know where they are). Are two references good enough for a resume? Even if I track down someone from 8 years ago, would that reference be too outdated?

Answer 1

As much as you can, doesn't matter how old they are. And good solid ones. Don't be vague about their names or contact information. Most employers DO check these days.

Makes you wish you'd gotten it in writing at the time, eh? I was in the same boat when I was job hunting.

Good Luck.

Answer 2

One reference from eight years ago might be OK, but you want someone more recent, particularly if you have not kept in touch.

I'm not sure where you get this "normally you're supposed to have three references". It varies quite a lot between types of job. People often give two. In some jobs, like IT, it is known that people cannot ask people in their present job, so there is litle call for references at all. In these circumstances you could put "References available on request" (You would have to have some ready though!). Obviously, if you have been offered a job subject to references you ahould having nthing to fear giving people from your current job.

If references are a problem, you might think of ways of addressing this problem. For instance, you could look at the possibility of doing an evening class where in due course you might ask the tutor. If you have been stagnating in the same job for six-seven years you may need to look at updating your qualifications anyway! Another possibility is to take up a hobby where you might meet somebody qualified to give a reference. And you might look to be active in your professional body, if appropriate, or trades union.

If you are short of contacts, what sort of social life are you having? Work isn't everything!

References are of limited value anyway. They are not good predictors of future work. Of course they perform some functions such as weeding out people who have done something grossly wrong. You probably simply need to find an employer with a healthily sceptical opinion of references.

Good luck.

Answer 3

The best way to handle that is to place the statement of, "References upon request" in the reference area for unrequested general distribution of the resume.

When submitting the resume to a specific employer, read the requirements of what the employer wants and then change the reference section to match exactly what they want if they ask for some. Never submit more than the prospective employer requests. Some will ask for 2, some for 3 and some will not ask at all.

Not all references have to be employers unless specifically mentioned on the requirements.

Answer 4

Three is the standard, and you don't need to only include former bosses as references! You can use a co-worker, or people you know from other parts of your life. As long as they can vouch for your character, the could be a reference.

Good luck!

Answer 5

None. On the resume, that is.

But the application is going to ask for them - typically three - so be prepared. Generally I like to list one supervisor, one co-worker and one subordinate. If I need to supply a 4th, I'll make it a social one. Make sure you ask the people beforehand so they will be prepared for the call. Don't just assume they can be listed down.

Answer 6

No, no reference is outdated. Three to five references should be enough.

Answer 7

3 seems to be common