Agent skill · writing content · davila7
reference-list-builder
Format professional references properly and prepare reference materials. Use when the user mentions references, reference list, references page, or preparing referees for a job application.
Why this skill is useful
Codifies a structured approach to preparing professional references that the AI could infer but doesn't have a specific format for.
What it needs
About 5k tokens when loaded. Last updated 2026-08-06. 30,138 stars on the source repository.
What this skill does
Reference List Builder When to Use This Skill Use this skill when the user: Needs to create a professional reference list Wants help choosing the right references Needs to format references properly Is preparing references for job applications Mentions: "references", "reference list", "professional references", "reference check" Core Capabilities Format professional reference lists Guide reference selection strategy Prepare reference briefing materials Anticipate reference check questions Handle difficult reference situations Coordinate reference outreach Reference Strategy Who Makes a Good Reference? Ideal References: Former direct managers (most important) Senior colleagues who observed your work Cross-functional partners Clients or customers Direct reports (for leadership roles) Professors or advisors (for recent graduates) Reference Hierarchy: 1. Most Valuable: Recent direct supervisor 2. Very Valuable: Senior leaders who know your work 3. Valuable: Peers and cross-functional partners 4. Acceptable: Clients, vendors, professors 5. Avoid: Friends, family, HR contacts only Who to Avoid ❌ Current employer (without permission) ❌ People who barely know you ❌ References from 10+ years ago only ❌ Personal friends (unless specified) ❌ People who might give lukewarm feedback ❌ Anyone you haven't contacted in advance Reference List Format Standard Format Information to Include Required: Full name Current job title Current company Phone number Professional email Your relationship to them Optional: LinkedIn URL Best time to reach Preferred contact method Formatting Guidelines Match the style of your resume (fonts, formatting) 3-5 references (more only if requested) Separate page from resume Header should match resume header Include "References" or "Professional References" as title Reference Preparation Step 1: Ask Permission Before listing anyone: Call or email to ask permission Confirm their contact information Explain the role you're applying for Gauge their willingness …
How to use it
Reference it in AdaL, Claude Code, Cursor or any coding agent — nothing to install:
@skills davila7/reference-list-builder