Are you planning to leave your current job and need a reference letter? It’s important to ask for a reference letter before you leave your job, as it can help you in your future job search. In this article, we’ll discuss tips for asking for a reference letter and provide examples that you can use and edit as needed.
Tips for Asking for a Reference Letter
When asking for a reference letter, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Ask in advance: Give your employer enough time to write a reference letter. Ideally, you should ask at least two weeks before your last day of work.
2. Choose the right person: Choose someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your work. This could be your supervisor, manager, or a coworker.
3. Explain why you need the reference letter: Let your employer know why you need the reference letter and how it will help you in your future job search.
4. Provide relevant information: Provide your employer with an updated resume or a list of your accomplishments to help them write a more detailed reference letter.
5. Thank your employer: After your employer writes the reference letter, make sure to thank them for their time and effort.
Remember, a reference letter can help you stand out in the job market and secure your next job. Keep these tips in mind when asking for a reference letter.
Examples of Asking for a Reference Letter When Leaving Job
Example 1: Request from Supervisor
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to let you know that I have decided to leave my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name]. I have enjoyed working with you and the team during my time here, and I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow and develop my skills.
As I begin my job search, I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. Your letter would be a valuable asset as I seek out new opportunities, and I would greatly appreciate your support.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to staying in touch and keeping you updated on my future endeavors.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Request from Manager
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I wanted to reach out to you and let you know that I have decided to leave my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name]. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to work with you and the team during my time here, and I have learned so much from you.
I am currently in the process of searching for a new job, and I was hoping that you would be willing to write me a reference letter. Your letter would be a valuable asset in my job search, and I would greatly appreciate your support.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to keeping in touch and updating you on my future endeavors.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Request from Coworker
Dear [Coworker’s Name],
I wanted to reach out to you and let you know that I have decided to leave my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name]. I have enjoyed working with you during my time here, and I am grateful for the support and encouragement you have provided me with.
I am currently in the process of searching for a new job, and I was hoping that you would be willing to write me a reference letter. Your letter would be a valuable asset in my job search, and I would greatly appreciate your support.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to staying in touch and keeping you updated on my future endeavors.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Request for Academic Reference Letter
Dear [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I have decided to pursue further education and apply for graduate programs in [Your Field of Study].
I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter for my graduate school application. Your letter would be a valuable asset in my application, and I would greatly appreciate your support.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Request for LinkedIn Recommendation
Dear [Connection’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. As you may know, I have decided to leave my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name].
I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a LinkedIn recommendation. Your recommendation would be a valuable asset in my job search, and I would greatly appreciate your support.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to staying in touch and keeping you updated on my future endeavors.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Request for Personal Reference Letter
Dear [Friend’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently in the process of searching for a new job, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a personal reference letter. I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset in my job search, and I would greatly appreciate your support.
Please let me know if you are able to write me a reference letter, and if so, what information you would require from me.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate our friendship and look forward to staying in touch.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask for a reference letter when leaving my job?
You can ask for a reference letter by sending an email or scheduling a meeting with your employer. Make sure to ask in advance and provide relevant information such as an updated resume or a list of your accomplishments.
Who should I ask for a reference letter?
You should choose someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your work. This could be your supervisor, manager, or a coworker.
What should I include in my request for a reference letter?
You should explain why you need the reference letter and how it will help you in your future job search. Provide relevant information such as an updated resume or a list of your accomplishments.
How long should I give my employer to write a reference letter?
You should give your employer at least two weeks to write a reference letter.
What if my employer refuses to write me a reference letter?
If your employer refuses to write you a reference letter, you can ask someone else who knows you well and can speak positively about your work.
Can I ask for a reference letter after I have left my job?
You can ask for a reference letter after you have left your job, but it’s best to ask before you leave so that your employer has enough time to write the letter.
Conclusion
Asking for a reference letter can be intimidating, but it’s an important step in your job search. Use the tips and examples in this article to help you ask for a reference letter when leaving your job. Remember to choose the right person, ask in advance, and provide relevant information to make the process as smooth as possible.