References are individuals who have agreed to recommend you to potential employers. Never list a reference until you have first obtained their permission, and ask whether they would prefer to write a letter for you or be contacted by phone. Employers assume that all applicants will be able to provide references, so it is not necessary to mention their availability on a résumé. It is increasingly common for employers to request a list of reference names and phone numbers so they can speak to them directly about your qualifications.

If you do wish to provide specific information about your references, you can offer the following options:

• If your credentials are on file at the Office of Career Counseling, write:
  Available upon written request from the Office of Career Counseling, Sarah Lawrence College, 1 Mead Way, Bronxville, NY 10708-5999; phone: 914.395.2566 or fax: 914.395.2666.
• If you wish to keep all reference information in your personal possession, write: References available on request.
• You can prepare a separate sheet titled "References for your name" on which you list the name, title, work address (or home address depending on the preferences of your recommender), phone number, and a statement indicating whether these individuals prefer to be contacted directly or will forward letters on request to prospective employers.