Reference Request Email Example: Seeking A Recommendation

When you’re applying for a new job or program, having a strong reference can make all the difference. A reference request email is a professional way to ask someone to vouch for your skills and experience. But how do you write a reference request email that is polite, effective, and gets results? In this post, we’ll cover all the important aspects of crafting a compelling reference request email.

Why References Matter

Before we dive into the specifics of how to ask for a reference, let’s take a moment to discuss why references matter.

Boost Your Credibility

When you apply for a job or program, you’re usually competing against other qualified candidates. A strong reference can help set you apart from the pack and make you more credible in the eyes of the hiring manager or admissions committee.

Highlight Your Key Qualities

A good reference can also highlight your key qualities and skills. If your reference can speak to your work ethic, problem-solving abilities, or leadership skills, it can help paint a more complete picture of who you are as a candidate.

Build Trust

By providing a reference, your contact is essentially vouching for your character and abilities. This can go a long way in building trust with the person who is considering you for the job or program.

How to Ask for a Reference

Now that we’ve established why references matter, let’s take a look at how to ask for one.

Choose Your References Carefully

First and foremost, it’s important to choose your references carefully. You want to select people who know you well, have worked with you closely, and can speak to your strengths and abilities.

When selecting your references, consider the following:

• Who can speak to your work experience?
• Who can speak to your character?
• Who can speak to your specific skills or strengths?

Craft Your Email Carefully

When crafting your reference request email, it’s important to be polite, professional, and clear about what you’re asking for. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Start with a friendly greeting and a brief introduction.
• Remind the person of who you are and how you know each other.
• Explain why you’re asking for a reference.
• Provide any relevant details about the job or program you’re applying for.
• Offer to provide any additional information the person might need.
• Thank them for their time and consideration.

Follow Up

After you’ve sent your reference request email, it’s important to follow up if you don’t hear back within a week or so. A quick email or phone call can help ensure that your request doesn’t fall through the cracks.

FAQs

What should I include in my reference request email?

Your reference request email should include a friendly greeting, a brief introduction, a clear explanation of why you’re asking for a reference, and any relevant details about the job or program you’re applying for. You should also offer to provide any additional information the person might need and thank them for their time and consideration.

How many references should I provide?

Most job applications will ask for 2-3 references. You should choose people who know you well, have worked with you closely, and can speak to your strengths and abilities.

What if my reference doesn’t respond to my request?

If you don’t hear back from your reference within a week or so, it’s okay to follow up with a quick email or phone call. Be polite and professional, and make sure to thank them for their time and consideration.

Can I ask a family member or friend to be a reference?

It’s generally not a good idea to ask a family member or friend to be a reference, as they may not be seen as objective by the person considering you for the job or program. Instead, choose people who know you in a professional capacity and can speak to your work experience and skills.

Conclusion

A compelling reference can go a long way in helping you land your dream job or program. By choosing your references carefully, crafting a clear and polite email, and following up if necessary, you can increase your chances of getting the reference you need.