If you’re applying for a job, getting a reference from a former employer can increase your chances of getting hired. However, it’s important to send a job reference mail that’s professional and courteous. In this article, we’ll provide tips and examples for writing a job reference mail that will help you stand out from other applicants.
Tips for Writing a Job Reference Mail
Before we dive into examples, let’s review some tips for writing a job reference mail:
- Address the reference by name: Use the person’s full name and title (if applicable) to show respect.
- Mention the job you’re applying for: Be specific about the position you’re applying for so the reference can speak to your qualifications.
- Include your contact information: Make it easy for the reference to contact you if they have any questions.
- Thank them for their time: Show gratitude for the reference’s help by thanking them in your mail.
- Proofread your mail: Ensure that your mail has no grammatical errors or typos.
Job Reference Mail Examples
Requesting a Reference for a Sales Position
Dear Mr. Johnson,
I am applying for the sales position at XYZ Company and I was hoping you could provide a reference for me. Your experience working with me in the sales department at ABC Company would be invaluable to my application.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
John Smith
Asking for a Reference for a Customer Service Role
Dear Ms. Brown,
I am applying for the customer service representative position at XYZ Corporation and I am wondering if you could provide a reference on my behalf. Your knowledge of my customer service skills from our time working together at ABC Corporation would be greatly appreciated.
Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Requesting a Reference for an Accounting Job
Dear Mr. Williams,
I am applying for the accountant position at XYZ Firm and I was hoping you would provide a reference for me. As my former supervisor at ABC Accounting, you are familiar with my attention to detail and analytical skills.
Thank you for your help and support in my career. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
Robert Johnson
Asking for a Reference for a Marketing Role
Dear Ms. Lee,
I am applying for the marketing specialist position at XYZ Marketing Corp and I hope you can provide a reference for me. Your extensive knowledge of my marketing achievements during our time working together at ABC Marketing would be very helpful to my application.
Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Julie Lee
Requesting a Reference for an IT Position
Dear Mr. Davis,
I am applying for the IT position at XYZ Corporation and I am wondering if you could provide a reference for me. Your experience working with me on IT projects at ABC Company would be beneficial to my application.
If there’s anything else you need from me, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
John Williams
Asking for a Reference for a Teaching Role
Dear Ms. Smith,
I am applying for the teaching position at XYZ School and I hope you can provide a reference for me. Your familiarity with my teaching style and work ethic from our time working together at ABC School would be very helpful to my application.
Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Mark Davis
Requesting a Reference for a Management Position
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I am applying for the management position at XYZ Company and I was hoping you could provide a reference for me. Your knowledge of my leadership abilities from our time working together at ABC Corporation would be invaluable to my application.
If there’s anything else you need from me, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Cheers,
David Lee
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a job reference mail?
When writing a job reference mail, be sure to address the reference by name, mention the job you’re applying for, include your contact information, thank them for their time, and proofread your mail.
How do I ask someone for a reference?
When asking someone for a reference, be sure to explain the position you’re applying for and why you think they would be a good reference. Make it clear that you appreciate their time and support.
What if my former employer can’t provide a reference?
If your former employer is unable to provide a reference, try reaching out to colleagues or mentors who can speak to your skills and experience.
Can I use a reference from a non-work-related experience?
If you don’t have any previous work experience, you can use a reference from a volunteer organization or other non-work-related experience. However, be sure to explain why this reference is relevant to the position you’re applying for.
How many references should I include in my job application?
Most employers ask for three references, so it’s best to have at least that many. Make sure the references you provide are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
What if I don’t have any references?
If you don’t have any references, try reaching out to former teachers, coaches, or other people who know you well and can speak to your character and abilities.
Conclusion
Writing a job reference mail can be nerve-wracking, but it’s an important part of the job application process. By following our tips and examples, you can create a professional and effective reference mail that will help you stand out from other applicants.