Do I have to have WRITTEN references to give to my potential employer or the referee contact data is enough?

Question

I am curious if it is generally regarded as compulsory to have a written reference ready to send off to potential employers, or is it OK to just give them the e-mail, telephone of my ex-employer so that they can contact them.
I just wanna know if I can save some time by not going to my former employers. Thanks!

Answer 1

generally, employers also want personal or "character" references. they already have your previous work experience/history to contact former employers.

It is best to have your references typed out to include their name, address, and phone number(s)

Answer 2

Most employers realize that references are available upon request, so they don't require them when you send in your resume. If they like your resume and cover letter, then they may ask you for your references, so you should have a list ready (contact name, business name, phone number) for them in that case. You could bring in copies of your reference letters when you have an interview as well, if they ask for it.

Answer 3

Have names and contact information available if you're asked for it, and be sure to let your references know ahead of time that you're giving their names. Written references aren't all that valuable - how does a potential employer know that you didn't just write it yourself?

Answer 4

Wrtten ones are the best to have. But you can give the name and phone numbers for references for them to contact.