When posing the question, “Must I include a reference page on a resume?” you will want to consider the current job market, the state of the world in general, and the fierce competition that you confront in your job search.

After the tragic events of 9/11, employers became more attentive in verifying the data contained on applicants’ resume references pages.  Given the sustained threat of terrorism, this vigilance has continued.  Rest assured that should you apply for a position, the employer will look closely at your resume references and will wish to confirm them.  In healthier economic times, the accepted practice was for a candidate to fill out a job application with the required information, including several references.  Now that the competition has become brutal, a well-prepared reference page on a resume makes the employer’s task a bit easier and enables you to present yourself as a business professional.
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