Can a resume mention previous customers?

Question

I am developing a resume / cover letter(s). My previous position was with a company which performs IT / software development work for various clients. Given that these clients are publicly acknowledged (i.e., no secret contracts), can I mention these clients by name in my resume?

For example: "During my time with ABC Co., I analyzed and developed upgrades for XYZ Co.'s intranet."

I am prohibited, of course, from discussing specifics and trade secrets, but is it allowable to discuss generic systems on which I may have worked?

Answer 1

As long as you feel that work best represents you and you're not treading on any privacy issues I'd say go for it.  When looking at a resume, your future employer will want to see specifically what you're capable of and not just the generic stuff.

Most importantly, if you reference a previous client, you better be sure that if (and when) your new employer calls them to follow up they're going to say good things.  By adding that to your resume you're in effect adding it to your references as well.

Answer 2

Don't.  Your contract with your past employers may prohibit it.

Answer 3

Can it?  Yeah probably, but I wouldn't recommend it.  What is the interviewer HATES the XYZ company?  Then, you're doing damage control (assuming you would still interview).  You're being interviewed on your capabilities, and level of expertise, not the companies that you happened to apply your expertise on.

just my .02

Answer 4

Your example is the perfect way to do it and it let's them know that you have worked for major clients that can be checked on and verified.