Reference Request Email Template
Politely ask someone to be your reference.
Tips for your Reference Request Email
- Ask before listing anyone as a referee.
- Offer to share the role details to make it easy.
About this Reference Request Email template
Ask before you list anyone. A referee contacted without warning is being asked to improvise about someone they may not remember clearly, and that is exactly how a supportive person produces a lukewarm reference. Send this when you are actively applying rather than “sometime soon”, and give them the role, the deadline and a reminder of what you worked on together.
It also helps to know what you are asking for. Many employers restrict what they will confirm to job title and dates of employment as a liability policy, so a former manager may genuinely not be permitted to write anything substantive on company paper. That is not a judgement on you. A personal recommendation letter, written in their own name from their own experience, is a different thing — and often what people actually mean. Say which one you need.
Make it easy to say yes and just as easy to say no. Attach the job description, name the two or three qualities you hope they can speak to, and include a line giving them an exit: if they are too busy or cannot speak to this particular role, you would rather know now. That line costs nothing and saves you from a reluctant referee. Then keep them posted — a job application that goes quiet leaves them wondering.
Frequently asked questions
Who should I ask?
Someone who managed or worked closely with you recently enough to remember specifics, and who you are confident will be positive. Seniority matters less than detail.
What if my old employer only confirms dates and job title?
That is a common liability policy and not personal. Ask the individual for a personal recommendation in their own name instead, and check they are allowed to give one.
How much notice should I give?
A week where possible, and always the deadline. Referees who are ambushed give thin references.
Should I send them my CV?
Yes, plus the job description and a short reminder of what you worked on together. You are making their job easy, not coaching them.
What if they say no?
Thank them and move on without pressing. A reluctant referee is worse than a different one, and their reasons are often policy rather than opinion.