Crafting Your CV
1. Deciding Whether to List References
So, you're putting together your CV, aiming to impress potential employers, and you've reached the section on references. The big question is: should you even include them directly on your CV? The answer, like many things in the job application world, isn't a straightforward yes or no. It really depends on the industry, the job description, and honestly, how much space you have left after highlighting your amazing skills and experiences.
Back in the day, listing references was pretty standard practice. It showed you were prepared and had people ready to vouch for you. But times have changed, and many employers are now perfectly happy to simply request references later in the hiring process, usually after an initial interview. Think of it as a 'show, don't tell' approach. Instead of just stating you're a hard worker, you provide examples of your hard work in your experience section and then offer references to back it up later.
One school of thought suggests leaving references off your CV altogether to save precious space. CV real estate is valuable! You want to highlight your key skills, accomplishments, and relevant experience first and foremost. Listing references can take up space that could be better used to elaborate on a project you led or a specific skill that makes you the perfect candidate.
However, there are exceptions. If the job description specifically requests references to be included, then, of course, include them! Pay close attention to the details. Following instructions shows attention to detail, which is always a good look. Also, some industries, particularly those in academia or research, still value seeing references upfront.
