Should I Put References on a CV in Ireland?

Many job seekers in Ireland wonder whether they should include references directly on their CV. The short answer is: usually, you don’t need to list them unless specifically requested.

This guide explains when to include references, how to present them if needed, and practical alternatives that help your CV stay clean and professional.

When to Include References

• Only include references if the job advert explicitly requests them.
• If the role is senior or highly specialised, references can sometimes demonstrate credibility.
• In most cases, it’s acceptable to write:
  • “References available on request”

This approach keeps your CV focused on your experience, skills, and achievements, rather than taking up space with contact details of third parties.

How to Format References (If Required)

If you need to provide references, include:

• Name of the referee
• Job title or relationship to you
• Company / organisation
• Email and phone number

Example:

Jane Smith  
Manager, Dublin City Transport  
Email: jane.smith@example.com | Phone: 087 123 4567

Alternatives to Listing References

• “References available on request” is perfectly acceptable for most roles.
• Prepare a separate reference sheet to send after the employer requests it.
• LinkedIn recommendations can be mentioned if relevant and recent.

Why Leaving References Off Can Be Beneficial

• Keeps the CV concise and focused
• Protects the privacy of your referees
• Allows you to tailor references depending on the role

Employers in Ireland generally do not expect references on a CV unless specifically asked.

Recommended Resources

• Irish CV Guide – full breakdown of format, structure, and best practices
• How Long Should a CV Be in Ireland? – guidance on ideal CV length

Conclusion

In most Irish job applications, it’s best to omit references from your CV unless requested. You can always prepare a separate reference sheet or simply state:

“References available on request.”

This keeps your CV clean, concise, and focused on what employers care about most — your skills, experience, and achievements.