Need A Sample Email Asking for A Reference?
A professional reference is a testimonial from someone who knows you well and can speak to your professional skills and character. Letting a former employer, a mentor or a colleague know you are applying for a new job and asking for a reference can be nerve-wracking, but there are some sample emails to make this easier.
5 Tips for Asking for a Reference:
- Ask Permission First: Never list someone as a reference without asking them first. It’s unprofessional and can lead to a bad reference if they are caught off guard.
- Give Them an “Out”: Always use phrases like “if you are comfortable” or “if you have the time.” This prevents them from feeling pressured if they don’t feel they can give you a glowing review.
- Provide Context: Send them the job description and your updated resume so they know exactly which of your skills to highlight.
- Keep Them Updated: If you get the job, let them know! A quick thank-you note goes a long way in maintaining
Email structure
To ensure your request is professional and easy for the recipient to say “yes” to, you should follow a specific structure. A well-structured email provides all the information they need without forcing them to do extra work. Here is the standard structure for a reference request email:
1. Clear Subject Line
The recipient should know exactly what the email is about before opening it.
- Format: Reference Request – [Your Name]
- Example: Reference Request – Jane Doe
2. Professional Greeting
Use a formal or semi-formal greeting depending on your past relationship.
- Formal: Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
- Casual (if you worked closely): Hi [First Name],
3. The Opening (The “Catch-Up”)
Start with a brief, friendly sentence to re-establish the connection, especially if you haven’t spoken in a while.
- Example: “I hope you’re having a great week!” or “It was a pleasure working with you last year at [Company Name].”
4. The Core Request (The “Ask”)
State clearly that you are applying for a job and would like them to be a reference.
- Example: “I am currently applying for a [Job Title] position at [Company], and I’m writing to ask if you would be comfortable serving as a professional reference for me.”
5. The Context (The “Why”)
Briefly explain why you are asking them specifically. This helps them understand what skills they should highlight if they get a call.
- Example: “Since we worked so closely on the [Project Name], I thought you would be the best person to speak to my project management and leadership skills.”
6. Supporting Information (The “Helpful Tools”)
Make it easy for them by providing your updated details. This prevents them from having to dig through old files to remember what you did.
- What to include: Mention that you’ve attached your current resume and the job description for the role you’re targeting.
7. The “Easy Out”
This is the most important part for maintaining a good relationship. You want a strong reference, not a reluctant one. Give them a polite way to decline if they are too busy or don’t feel they can give a glowing review.
- Example: “I completely understand if you’re too busy at the moment or don’t feel comfortable providing a reference at this time.”
8. Closing and Contact Info
Tell them what the next steps are and how the employer might contact them.
- Example: “Please let me know if this is something you’d be willing to do. If so, let me know the best phone number and time for the hiring manager to reach out. Thank you for your time and support!”
9. Sign-off
- Example: Best regards, / Sincerely, [Your Name]
Summary Checklist of what to include:
- [ ] Your current resume (attached)
- [ ] The job description (attached or linked)
- [ ] The deadline (when you need to submit the reference list)
- [ ] Your phone number (in your signature)
To ensure your request is professional and easy for the recipient to say “yes” to, you should follow a specific structure. A well-structured email provides all the information they need without forcing them to do extra work.
Example Emails
Asking someone to be a professional reference is a standard part of the job search process. To make it easier for you, here are four different templates tailored to the person you are asking.
1. Asking a Former Manager (Most Common)
This is the most standard request. It’s professional and reminds them of your work together.
Subject: Reference Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I’m writing to let you know that I am currently in the process of applying for a new position as a [Job Title] at [Company Name].
Since I enjoyed my time working under your leadership at [Former Company], I was wondering if you would be comfortable serving as a professional reference for me? I believe your perspective on my work regarding [mention a specific project or skill] would be very valuable to the hiring team.
I’ve attached my current resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you are comfortable with this, and if so, what the best phone number and time of day would be for them to reach you.
Thank you for your time and for all your support!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
2. Asking a Former Colleague or Peer
Use this template for someone you worked alongside who can speak to your teamwork and daily contributions.
Subject: Reference Request – [Your Name]
Hi [Colleague’s Name],
I hope everything is going great at [Company Name]!
I’m currently interviewing for a [Job Title] role and was wondering if you’d be willing to act as a professional reference for me? As we worked closely together on [Project Name/Department], I think you could provide great insight into my collaboration and technical skills.
I’d be happy to send over my updated resume and some details about the role if you’re available. Of course, I understand if you’re too busy at the moment to take this on.
Let me know what you think!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
3. Asking a Professor or Academic Advisor
This is ideal for students or recent graduates who may not have extensive work experience yet.
Subject: Reference Request – [Your Name] – [Course Name/Year]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I hope you are having a productive semester.
I am currently applying for [an internship/my first full-time role] as a [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I truly enjoyed your [Course Name] class, and I feel that the skills I learned there—specifically [mention a skill like research, writing, or coding]—are very relevant to this position.
Would you be comfortable providing a positive professional reference for me? I have attached my resume and my final project from your class to help refresh your memory of my work.
Thank you for your time and for the impact you’ve had on my education.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
4. The “General” Formal Request
Use this if you haven’t spoken to the person in a while and want to keep it strictly professional.
Subject: Professional Reference Inquiry – [Your Name]
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am currently exploring new career opportunities and am in the final stages of the interview process for a [Job Title] position. I am reaching out to see if you would be willing to serve as a professional reference for me.
Having worked with you at [Company/Project], I value your opinion and believe your insight into my [specific skill or trait] would be beneficial to my application.
If you are available, please let me know the best contact information to provide to the hiring manager. I have attached my resume for your convenience.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
35 Professional Reference Request Email Templates
Template 1: How to Ask for a Professional Reference After Time Has Passed
I am reaching out to see if you would be able to provide a reference for my upcoming position with [company name]. I know that it has been some time since we worked together, but I thought you might be willing to help.
Template 2: Requesting a Reference With Resume Review
I am very interested in the position. I’m a [type of job] with extensive experience in [skill set]. If you have time to review my resume and give me a reference, that would be great. I have attached my latest CV for your convenience and would be happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Template 3: Asking for Feedback and Professional Recommendations
Please let me know if it’s possible to provide you with a reference for my job search. I would appreciate any feedback on my work or recommendations that would help me in finding a new opportunity.
Template 4: Short Email to Ask Someone to Be a Reference (Expanded)
I am currently applying for a job, and I was wondering if you could give me a reference. It would be greatly appreciated!
I truly valued the time we worked together and believe your insight into my skills and work ethic would be very helpful during this process. Please let me know if you need my updated resume or job description.
Template 5: Formal Email Requesting a Reference for a Job Application
Hope you are having a great week. I am writing to ask for a reference for a job that I am applying for. Your expertise in the field will be extremely valuable in this process and it would be greatly appreciated if you were willing to support me in this regard.
Template 6: Reference Request From a Former Manager or Supervisor
I am writing to ask if you’d consider serving as a reference for me in my next job search. I’ve been working at [company] for the last three years and would appreciate it if you could share information about the role and your overall experience with me during this time.
Template 7: Asking Supervisors for a Reference After Working Together
I’ve been working with [company] for over 6 months. I’m writing to ask for some references from my supervisors who know me well. Please let me know if you can help!
I would be happy to send over my updated resume and the details of the position so you have context if contacted.
Template 8: Requesting a Mentor to Be Your Referee Again (Expanded)
You’ve been a great friend, mentor and reference for me over the years. I want to ask you if you can be my referee again.
Your guidance has always meant a lot to me, and I feel your perspective would be incredibly valuable during this next step in my career.
Template 9: Friendly Reference Request Email to a Former Colleague
Hey there, It has been a real pleasure working with you this past [months] and I hope that we will be able to continue doing business together in the future. I was wondering if I could ask you to be my reference? I applied for a job recently and they asked for some references to speak to regarding my work ethic and availability. I would really appreciate you help with this. Thank you very much!
Template 10: Asking Permission to List Someone as a Reference
I’m looking to use your name as a reference for my next position. I am applying for [job title] at [company name]. I put down the job description below that should give you more information about it. Thank you in advance.
Template 11: Professional Email Asking for a Recommendation Letter
I am writing to ask you for a reference to help me secure a new job. I have recently been offered a position at [company]. I would be grateful if you could provide a concise recommendation of my work experience, skills and personality.
Template 12: Asking for a Reference Based on Industry Connection
I am applying for a position at [company name] which I have seen and is perfect for my skills and experience. I understand that you know the company, so I would appreciate it if you could give me a reference. Thank you.
Template 13: Reconnecting With a Contact and Requesting a Reference
I hope you are doing well and that you are looking forward to seeing me in the office. I would like to ask you for a reference, but since it has been some time since the last time we spoke, perhaps you might wish to hear more about what type of career I have been working on lately. I have attached my CV and the job description. I appreciate your support. Many thanks,
Template 14: Asking Permission to Use Someone’s Name as a Professional Reference
I’m writing to ask if it would be possible to let me to use your name as a reference. I’ve worked with you in the [position] role and have enjoyed my time here. In particular, I have carried out a number if tasks [give them specific examples]. Your reference would mean alot to me. Thank you.
Template 15: Academic Reference Request Email for School Applications
I would be greatly obliged if you could please write me a letter of recommendation for [school] to help me get accepted. It would mean so much to me as I’d love to further my studies and continue growing in this field.
Template 16: Asking for a Client Testimonial or Product Reference
Hi [name], I’m writing to see if you’d be willing to provide a reference for me. I’d like to add a testimonial as part of my profile on the product/service I sell. This is a real example of what I am trying to achieve: [link].
Template 17: Requesting a Reference After Receiving a Job Offer (Expanded)
I hope this email finds you well! I have just been offered a new job opportunity, and I was wondering if you would consider writing my reference.
The role focuses on [brief role focus], and I believe your perspective on my work would be very helpful to the hiring team.
Template 18: Short Professional Reference Request Email (Expanded)
I am writing to request a reference for [position] at [company]. I am applying for a position with [company] and could use your help.
Please let me know if you are comfortable being listed, and I can provide more details about the role and expectations.
Template 19: Time-Sensitive Reference Request for an Interview
I am writing to ask you to provide a reference for [name] at [company name]. As you may know, I am interviewing with [company name] and they have asked me to provide a list of references. If you could send a recommendation in the next week it would be extremely helpful.
Template 20: Checking if Someone Is Willing to Be a Reference (Expanded)
I am in the process of applying for a job and am looking for a reference from you. Please let me know if you are willing to be my reference when I apply for the job.
I completely understand if your schedule is busy, so feel free to let me know either way.
Template 21: Asking Someone to Speak About Your Work Ethic
I’m writing about my job search and I hope you can help me by giving some insight into my work ethic and experience.
Template 22: Reference Request With Resume Link
I’m applying for a job with [company] and I’d like to ask you for a professional reference. You can see my resume at [link]. I appreciate anything you can say about me.
Template 23: MBA Recommendation Request Email
As I begin to think about the next step in my career, it would be extremely helpful if you could write me a recommendation letter. Your recommendation will help me gain admission to a highly-ranked MBA program.
Template 24: Urgent Professional Reference Request Email
I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide a professional reference for me within the next few days or weeks. I have enjoyed working with you over the past [months] and believe that my work ethic and skills will be of great benefit during the upcoming recruitment process. Please let me know whether or not you could provide such a reference and if there’s any specific information I should include with this request. Thank you in advance for your assistance!
Template 25: Reference Request Explaining Company Motivation
I am seeking your help in securing a reference for a position at [company]. I would appreciate it if you could provide a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I would like to work for your company because [explain why you love the company and specifically any thought leadership or achievements that make you a good fit here].
Template 26: Reference Request With Attached Resume and Documents
I am writing to see if you would consider providing a professional reference to support my application for a position. I have attached my resume and other documentation.
Template 27: Professional Experience-Based Reference Request
I am writing to ask if you would be willing to use your professional experience with [company name] to help me with a job application. Your help is appreciated.
Template 28: Work Ethic Reference Request With Resume Attached
I am reaching out to you to ask if you could serve as a professional reference for me. I would be grateful for any feedback on my work ethic, competitiveness and willingness to learn new skills. I have attached my resume for your reference.
Template 29: LinkedIn Recommendation Request Email
I hope this email finds you well. I am looking for a professional reference for my LinkedIn profile, and am wondering if I can ask for your help. Thanks in advance.
Template 30: Career Transition Reference Request
I have decided to take my career in a new direction, and I seek advice on how to approach employers to re-enter their market. For this purpose, I would like to request a professional reference from you. Thank you!
Template 31: Mentor Recommendation Request Email
Dear [name], You have been a professional mentor to me for the past two years and I have always valued your encouragement, insight and advice. As I decide where to continue my career, please consider providing me with a letter of reference if asked. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely,[your name]
Template 32: Collaborative Work Relationship Reference Request
I’m writing to you because [insert a job or something you did and your name], I was wondering if you would be willing to be my professional reference for [insert job or position here]. We worked together for [insert time of time you worked together] and I found our work relationship to be very collaborative and fairly strong. If it’s not too much trouble, please let me know if you can do this for me. Regards,
Template 33: Asking for a Reference While Considering a Job Offer
I’m in the process of deciding whether to accept a new job and would love for you to give me your opinion about me as an employee. Can I ask you for your time in providing a reference for this role?
Template 34: Professional Reference Request Highlighting Skills
I would appreciate it if you could provide me with a professional reference. I am applying for a job, and would like someone to tell my potential employer about my skills and qualifications for the position – like yourself! Let me know if need any further information. Thank you,
Template 35: Long-Term Industry Professional Reference Request
I am writing to you today in an attempt to find a professional reference. I have been working in the [your occupation] industry for the last x years, at several companies and I hope that you, as an experienced professional with whom I have worked, would be willing to help me out on this quest.
FAQs | Email Asking for Reference
Here are the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding asking for professional references:
1. Who is the best person to ask for a reference?
The best references are people who have directly supervised your work (former managers or supervisors). If you are a recent graduate, professors or internship coordinators are great. If you can’t use a manager, a senior colleague who worked closely with you is the next best choice.
2. How many references do I usually need?
Most employers ask for three references. It is a good idea to have a list of 4 or 5 people ready, just in case one person is unavailable or too busy to respond when the recruiter calls.
3. When is the right time to ask?
You should ask before you give their contact information to a recruiter. Ideally, reach out as soon as you start your job search or when you reach the final interview stage. Never let a reference be surprised by a phone call from a hiring manager.
4. What if I haven’t spoken to the person in years?
It is still okay to ask! However, you should spend a little more time in the email “re-introducing” yourself. Remind them of the specific projects you worked on together and include your updated resume so they can see what you’ve been doing since you last spoke.
5. Can I use a friend or family member as a reference?
Generally, no. Most employers want “professional references” (people who know your work habits). Only use a friend or family member if the employer specifically asks for a “personal” or “character” reference.
6. What should I do if someone says “no”?
Don’t take it personally. Some companies have strict HR policies that forbid employees from giving references, or the person may simply be too busy to do a good job. Simply thank them for their time and move on to the next person on your list.
7. Should I use my current manager?
Only use your current manager if they already know you are looking for a new job. If your job search is a secret, do not use your current manager, as the reference check is usually the final step before an offer is made and could put your current job at risk. Use a former manager or a trusted mentor instead.
8. What information should I give my references?
Once they agree, send them:
- The name of the company and the job title you are applying for.
- The job description.
- Your updated resume.
- A few “talking points” (e.g., “If they ask about my leadership, feel free to mention how I handled the X Project”).
9. Do I need to thank them?
Yes. Send a thank-you email immediately after they agree to be a reference. Furthermore, once you finish your job search—whether you got the job or not—send a follow-up email to let them know the outcome. It maintains the relationship for the future.
10. Should I put “References available upon request” on my resume?
This is considered outdated. Most recruiters assume you have references ready. You don’t need to put this phrase on your resume; instead, keep a separate document with your references’ names and contact info ready to send when asked.
If you found this list useful, make sure to check out 47 Emails | How To Ask For A Letter Of Recommendation Via Email Sample
