What’s a Referee on a CV

 💼 Who’s Speaking for You? Why CV Referees Matter More Than You Think

When applying for a job or scholarship, you’ve probably seen the instruction: “Add referees.”

So you quickly jot down a few names and numbers — done, right?

Not quite.

Referees aren’t just a formality — they can make or break your application. Let's dive into who they are, why they matter, and how to choose them wisely.

👥 What’s a Referee Anyway?

A referee (also called a reference) is someone who vouches for you — your work ethic, experience, character, or academic record.

They’re the voice behind your CV, confirming that what you’ve written is real and reliable.

Employers and institutions use referees to:

✔️ Confirm your qualifications

✔️ Get insights into your working style

✔️ Understand your behavior in team settings

✔️ Decide if you're the right fit

🔍 Who Should You Choose as a Referee?

It depends on what you're applying for — job, scholarship, internship? Here's a guide:

🧑‍💼 For Job Applications:

✅Former managers or supervisors

✅Team leads or HR officers

✅Internship mentors

✅Clients (freelancers or consultants)

🎓 For Scholarships/Fellowships:

✅University lecturers

✅Academic advisors

✅Research supervisors

✅NGO or volunteer coordinators

👩‍🎓 For Entry-Level or Fresh Graduates:

✅Lecturers or teachers

✅Internship supervisors

✅Community or church leaders

✅Volunteer project leaders

📌 Types of Referees You Can Use

1. Professional Reference – Talks about your job performance, attitude, and reliability.

2. Academic Reference – Reflects on your academic strengths, discipline, and growth potential.

3. Character Reference – Highlights your personality, integrity, and values.

↺ Referees by Career Stage

Entry-Level: Academic + Character referees

Mid-Level: Direct supervisors, HR officers, colleagues

Senior-Level: High-ranking managers, board members, respected clients

✅ Pro Tips for Powerful References

Always ask permission before listing someone

Let them know which job or program you’re applying for

Make sure their contact info is accurate and active

Avoid family or close friends – they’re not seen as objective

⚠️ Final Thought

Your referee is more than just a name on your CV — they’re your silent advocate.

Choose someone who will speak confidently and positively about 

your abilities and potential.

Because in the eyes of employers, a strong reference = a trustworthy candidate.