Five Reasons Never To Include References On Your CV

   

Including reference in your CV always seem to be the standard protocol. In times past, it was the norm to add two or three references to a CV. However, all that has changed. Why is including a reference in your CV such a bad idea? I will tell you, but you’ve got to keep reading!

1. Too Early

There are many stages in the recruitment process, and your reference is only useful toward the end-stage. The fact is, you might have about two to three stages of screening and assessment you need to pass. Your employer will only make you an offer toward the end, which is where your reference becomes essential. Aside from that, it is incredibly too early to include a reference in your CV.

2. Preserve Your Space

Almost every job applicant seems to add a reference in their CV; doing the same doesn’t give you a sort of advantage or edge. Rather than follow the flock to the pit, you can do something different. At most, an employee spends less than 30-seconds on your CV. Also remember, space is so precious. It will be an error cluttering your space with unnecessary technicalities like a reference. Cut it off and use that space to convince your employer instead.

PATRICK OKUNIMA CV WRITING SERVICES has helped more than 3,000 job seekers land their dream jobs with high-paying companies including Banks, Consulting Firms, Multinationals, Telecommunications and Oil & Gas Companies. If you have submitted your CV severally without hearing back from the employers, we can be of great help. We'll write you a CV that highlights your skills, experience and qualifications, and positions you as the best candidate for the job. This will stand you out from hundreds or thousands of other applicants and get you noticed by the employer. Visit our website, www.patrickokunima.com to order for a professional CV NOW!

3. Unfair To Add Other People’s Info Online

Virtually all application procedure involves forwarding your CV online to the company’s website. One of the numerous reasons why including a reference in this initial stage is a bad idea is because of undue exposure. Your references involve putting the personal information of someone online, like full name, occupation, contact details, and address. Hundreds of thousands of people might end up seeingthat. It just isn’t appropriate at this age of scammers and spammers.

4. Applicant Tracking System

Another reason not to include a reference in your CV is that most companies or firms use an Applicant Tracking System. Immediately the system scans your CV, it automatically sends a mail to all your references, and they stay invalid until they respond. In other words, you will never hear from your employers until your references have responded to the email sent. Instead of dabbling this route, read up guides on how to get past the ATS.

5. Outdated And Unprofessional

Years ago, employers or hiring managers expected you to have a reference. However, things have changed. Your employer will only ask for reference at the later stage of the hiring process, where you have more chances of bagging the job. But when your CV includes this element, it is a huge turn-off, and your employer might dumb it in the trash box.

   

What To Add To Your CV, Instead Of References

1. Add Qualified Achievements

In other to convince your employer that you’re the right candidate for the job, you might need to add some impressive impacts on your CV. Add achievements that are valuable to the position you’re applying. Only then will these added elements create the envisioned effect.

2. Show Your Supporting Lines

Another way to fully utilize that reference space is to prove your worth or seniority to your potential employer. Demonstrate that you had a great working relationship with your previous workers. In your role description, you can describe who you report in the outline of your role description.

3. Prove Your Impact On Roles

Another data to use instead of a reference is to prove your impact. Show your potential employee how you were able to make an impact in your former workplace, and the recognition given by their leaders. This beautiful piece of information will further convince your employer that you’re the right candidate for the position.

Wrapping Up!

After your second and third stages of the screening or hiring process, your employer might ask for your reference. In that case, create a separate page and list your references. Upon request, you can easily submit them without hassles. Before you start job hunting, ensure your reference page is separate from your CV and ready too. Good Luck!

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About Professional CV Writer

Patrick Okunima is a professional CV writer with over a decade's experience. He's the Founder of CV Wizards (The first Nigerian company to be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC as a CV, resume and cover letter writing firm). Patrick, through his CV writing services has helped more than 3,000 job seekers secure interviews with high-paying companies, including Banks, Consulting Firms, Multinationals, Telecommunications, and Oil and Gas Companies. Need professional help with your CV? Kindly reach Patrick on 08104502652 or via email at info@patrickokunima.com