Choose people who can confirm how you work.
A useful referee knows your work, study, volunteering or responsibilities and has agreed to be contacted.
Who can be a referee?
- Current or former supervisor
- Lecturer, teacher or practical-training coordinator
- Volunteer or community project leader
- Client for genuine freelance or casual work
What to include
- Full name
- Role and organisation
- Professional relationship to you
- Phone and professional email, with permission
Protect their information
Ask before listing anyone and confirm their current details. You can use “References available on request” when an advert does not require them or when publishing your CV publicly.
Prepare the referee
Send the job title and a copy of the CV you submitted. Do not coach a false story; help them know which real work the employer may ask about.
Use the free CV tools
Download the editable South African CV template · Compare your CV with a job advert · Open and edit the files on a phone or computer
Turn the advice into an application.
Use the free tools, verified vacancies and editable resources built for South African job seekers.
Independently published by The SA Job Kit. Last reviewed: 8 October 2026. How we research · Report a correction