From a sales ad I read this morning:
For more information on this position or to apply please forward your resume and a list of references to…
The ad is far too early for references and, quite frankly, I would be a bit surprised if any candidate provided references when simply responding to the ad.
References are highly valued by candidates and no matter what they say, a reference check is always an interruption to the reference person’s day. Why would an applicant want to share that information without having any discussion about the position first?
References are the last step in the hiring process before the offer. Do not expect candidates to blindly provide their cherished references on the first contact.