If you’re applying for a job and have a mutual acquaintance who has recommended you for the position, it’s important to include this information in your cover letter. Doing so can increase your chances of getting an interview and ultimately being hired.
In this article, we’ll provide tips and examples for crafting a cover letter with a referral from a mutual acquaintance that will help you stand out from other applicants.
Tips for Writing a Cover Letter With Referral From Mutual Acquaintance
Here are some tips for writing an effective cover letter that includes a referral from a mutual acquaintance:
1. Start with a Catchy Greeting
Use a personalized greeting that includes the name of the hiring manager and the mutual acquaintance who referred you. This will help you make a positive first impression and show that you have a connection to the company.
2. Explain Your Connection
In the opening paragraph of your cover letter, briefly explain your connection to the mutual acquaintance who referred you. Highlight any shared experiences or qualifications that make you a strong fit for the position.
3. Highlight Your Relevant Skills and Experience
Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience in the body of your cover letter. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have used these skills in previous roles and how they will benefit the company in the position you’re applying for.
4. Customize Your Cover Letter
Customize your cover letter to the specific job and company you’re applying to. Research the company and the position to make sure your cover letter is tailored to their specific needs and requirements.
5. Use a Professional and Polite Tone
Use a professional and polite tone throughout your cover letter. Avoid using slang or overly informal language, and make sure to proofread your letter for any errors before submitting it.
6. Edit and Rewrite Your Cover Letter as Needed
Before submitting your cover letter, make sure to edit and rewrite it as needed. Have a friend or family member read it over to provide feedback and make sure it’s clear, concise, and effective.
Examples of Cover Letters With Referral From Mutual Acquaintance
Example 1: Referral From a Former Coworker
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Company] that [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name] recommended me for. As a former coworker of [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name], I am thrilled to have the opportunity to apply for this position and join the team at [Company].
With [Number of Years] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I am confident in my ability to excel in this role. At [Previous Company], I was responsible for [Key Responsibility], which helped me develop strong [Skill/Competency]. I believe that these skills, along with my passion for [Industry/Field], make me a strong fit for this position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Referral From a Friend
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the [Position] at [Company], which was recommended to me by [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name]. As a friend of [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name], I have heard great things about the company and am eager to join the team.
With [Number of Years] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I have developed strong skills in [Skill/Competency]. At [Previous Company], I was responsible for [Key Responsibility], which helped me develop the ability to [Achievement]. I believe that these skills, combined with my passion for [Industry/Field], make me a strong fit for this position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Referral From a Former Professor
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Company] that was recommended to me by [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name], my former professor at [School Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Field], I am excited at the prospect of joining the team at [Company] and utilizing the skills I developed in school.
During my time at [School Name], I had the opportunity to develop strong skills in [Skill/Competency]. I also completed an internship at [Previous Company] where I was responsible for [Key Responsibility], which helped me develop the ability to [Achievement]. I am confident that these skills, along with my passion for [Industry/Field], make me a strong fit for this position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Referral From a Mentor
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the [Position] at [Company], which was recommended to me by [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name], my mentor in [Your Field]. As someone who has provided guidance and support throughout my career, I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for a position at a company that has been highly recommended by [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name].
With [Number of Years] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I have developed strong skills in [Skill/Competency]. At [Previous Company], I was responsible for [Key Responsibility], which helped me develop the ability to [Achievement]. I am confident that these skills, along with my passion for [Industry/Field], make me a strong fit for this position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Referral From a Business Associate
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Company] that was recommended to me by [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name], a business associate who I have had the pleasure of working with on several projects. As someone who has worked closely with [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name], I am thrilled to have the opportunity to apply for this position and join the team at [Company].
With [Number of Years] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I have developed strong skills in [Skill/Competency]. At [Previous Company], I was responsible for [Key Responsibility], which helped me develop the ability to [Achievement]. I am confident that these skills, along with my passion for [Industry/Field], make me a strong fit for this position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Referral From a Professional Network
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the [Position] at [Company], which was recommended to me by [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name], a member of my professional network. As someone who is actively involved in the industry, I have had the pleasure of working with [Mutual Acquaintance’s Name] on several projects and am grateful for their recommendation.
With [Number of Years] years of experience in [Your Industry/Field], I have developed strong skills in [Skill/Competency]. At [Previous Company], I was responsible for [Key Responsibility], which helped me develop the ability to [Achievement]. I am confident that these skills, along with my passion for [Industry/Field], make me a strong fit for this position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a cover letter with a referral from a mutual acquaintance?
A: A cover letter with a referral from a mutual acquaintance is a job application document that includes a recommendation from someone who knows both the applicant and the hiring manager. The letter should highlight the applicant’s qualifications and explain how they are connected to the mutual acquaintance who provided the referral.
Q: How do I start a cover letter with a referral from a mutual acquaintance?
A: Start your cover letter with a personalized greeting that includes the name of the hiring manager and the mutual acquaintance who referred you. This will help you make a positive first impression and show that you have a connection to the company.
Q: How do I highlight my skills and experience in a cover letter with a referral?
A: Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience in the body of your cover letter. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have used these skills in previous roles and how they will benefit the company in the position you’re applying for.
Q: How do I customize my cover letter for a specific job?
A: Research the company and the position to make sure your cover letter is tailored to their specific needs and requirements. Use keywords from the job description and highlight how your skills and experience make you a strong fit for the position.
Q: What tone should I use in a cover letter with a referral?
A: Use a professional and polite tone throughout your cover letter. Avoid using slang or overly informal language, and make sure to proofread your letter for any errors before submitting it.
Q: What should I do if I don’t have a mutual acquaintance to refer me for a job?
A: If you don’t have a mutual acquaintance, try networking and building relationships in your industry to make connections with potential employers. You can also highlight your relevant skills and experience in your cover letter and explain why you’re interested in the position and the company.
Q: How do I make sure my cover letter is effective?
A: Edit and rewrite your cover letter as needed before submitting it. Have a friend or family member read it over to provide feedback and make sure it’s clear, concise, and effective for the position you’re applying for.
Conclusion
A cover letter with a referral from a mutual acquaintance can be an effective way to increase your chances of getting a job interview and ultimately being hired. By following these tips and using our examples as a guide, you can craft a strong cover letter that highlights your qualifications and shows your connection to the company.