A resume is too important a document for anyone to waste any space on it; every individual’s endeavour is to put their best into making this vital introductory document. The contents of a resume, therefore need to be very precise, crisp, and to the point. A challenge is often posed in this regard- should you or should you not include references on a resume. Though there is a divided opinion on this point; yet by and large experts think it is not necessary to make this inclusion on the resume, because of the limitation of space.
Your resume is one document where you would want to highlight all your selling points, to get an edge over other candidates. Hence, focus on that. Also, as far as the references are concerned, you do not have to worry. The recruiters know well when they are moving positively towards finalizing on hiring a particular candidate; accordingly, they will let you know if and when they require an acknowledgement of your workmanship in the form of references. This usually does not happen before a few rounds of interview, so relax. But in case there is a mention of the inclusion of references on the job listing, then leaving it out of the resume is not an option.
Another scenario where you may have to include the references is if you are opting for a job in an industry that demands testimonials from former employers or employees. In that case, you will have to provide the names and contact information of the individual who would verify your credibility.
Now, whether you have to include your references on a resume or provide them at an interview, you will have to keep in mind certain things.
However, as I said earlier, at most times it is highly recommended that you do fill in your resume with unnecessary information and the references on a resume can be one of those when a job posting does not ask for it. You have to remember that you are bound in space on a resume and thus it is pertinent that you handle it wisely and after careful deliberation. The primary intention of a resume is to present yourself as an indispensable professional, so stay focused on that and compose it. Sometimes, a recruiter may even explicitly mention that they do not want any reference; you have to be very careful then and make sure you do not include any on the resume. It will immediately put you in a negative light. Going through the job positing intently, several times before designing the resume is hence very essential. Also, if you have already mentioned these in your cover letter, there is no need to repeat it in the resume.
I hope now you are clear about whether or not you should references on a resume, nonetheless, I would advise you always to seek the help of professional resume writers when in any kind of dilemma with resume writing.