When you are looking for new job opportunities, having a referral letter can make a significant difference in your chances of getting hired. A referral letter is a document that attests to your skills and qualifications, written by someone who has worked with you in the past. It can be from a former employer, a coworker, or a mentor. If you are in need of a referral letter, here are some tips and examples to help you get started.
Tips for Requesting a Referral Letter
Before requesting a referral letter, it’s important to consider the following tips:
1. Choose the right person.
When requesting a referral letter, it’s essential to choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your abilities and qualifications. This can be a former boss, a coworker, or a mentor who has worked closely with you in the past.
2. Provide context.
When asking for a referral letter, it’s important to provide context about the job you are applying for and why you think the person is the best fit to write the letter. Be sure to include information about the job description and the skills and qualifications needed for the role.
3. Be polite and professional.
When requesting a referral letter, it’s important to be polite and professional. Remember that the person you are asking is doing you a favor, so be sure to express your gratitude and appreciation for their time and effort.
4. Offer to provide additional information.
When requesting a referral letter, offer to provide any additional information that the person may need to write the letter. This can include your resume, a list of your accomplishments, or any other relevant information that will help them write a strong letter.
Examples of Request for Referral Letter
Request for Referral Letter from Former Employer
Dear Mr. Smith,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a new job opportunity, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a referral letter for me. I worked for your company for three years, and I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my job search.
During my time at your company, I was responsible for managing a team of sales representatives, and I was able to consistently meet and exceed sales goals. I am confident that your referral letter would highlight my leadership skills and my ability to drive results.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information that you need from me.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Request for Referral Letter from Coworker
Dear Sarah,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a new job opportunity, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a referral letter for me. We have worked together for two years, and I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my job search.
During our time working together, we collaborated on several projects, and I was able to see firsthand your excellent communication and problem-solving skills. I am confident that your referral letter would highlight my ability to work well in a team and my dedication to achieving our goals.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information that you need from me.
Best regards,
John Smith
Request for Referral Letter from Mentor
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a new job opportunity, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a referral letter for me. As my mentor during my graduate program, I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my job search.
During my time in the program, you provided me with invaluable guidance and support, and I was able to complete my thesis successfully. I am confident that your referral letter would highlight my research skills and my ability to work independently.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information that you need from me.
Sincerely,
Emily Wong
Request for Referral Letter for Graduate School
Dear Professor Brown,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying to graduate school, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a referral letter for me. During my undergraduate studies, I took several courses with you, and I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my application.
During our time working together, I was impressed by your knowledge and passion for the subject matter, and I was able to learn a great deal from you. I am confident that your referral letter would highlight my academic achievements and my dedication to pursuing further education.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information that you need from me.
Best regards,
Tom Smith
Request for Referral Letter for Volunteer Position
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying to be a volunteer for the local animal shelter, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a referral letter for me. We worked together on a similar project last year, and I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my application.
During our time working together, I was impressed by your organizational skills and your dedication to the project. I am confident that your referral letter would highlight my ability to work well in a team and my passion for helping animals.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information that you need from me.
Sincerely,
Julie Brown
Request for Referral Letter for Leadership Program
Dear Mr. Lee,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying to a leadership program, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a referral letter for me. We worked together on several projects, and I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my application.
During our time working together, I was impressed by your leadership skills and your ability to motivate and inspire the team. I am confident that your referral letter would highlight my leadership potential and my dedication to personal and professional growth.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information that you need from me.
Best regards,
Mike Johnson
Request for Referral Letter for Scholarship
Dear Dr. Garcia,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a scholarship, and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a referral letter for me. I took several courses with you during my undergraduate studies, and I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my application.
During our time working together, I was impressed by your passion for teaching and your dedication to helping students succeed. I am confident that your referral letter would highlight my academic achievements and my potential for future success.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information that you need from me.
Sincerely,
Carla Rodriguez
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask for a referral letter?
The best way to ask for a referral letter is to send a polite and professional email to the person you are requesting the letter from. Be sure to provide context about the job you are applying for and why you think they are the best fit to write the letter. Express your gratitude and offer to provide any additional information they may need.
Who should I ask for a referral letter?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your skills and qualifications. This can be a former employer, a coworker, or a mentor who has worked closely with you in the past.
What should be included in a referral letter?
A referral letter should include information about the person’s skills and qualifications, as well as their work ethic and dedication. It should be written in a professional tone and highlight the person’s strengths and accomplishments.
How long should a referral letter be?
A referral letter should be no more than one page long. It should be concise and to the point, while still highlighting the person’s skills and qualifications.
What should I do if someone declines to write a referral letter for me?
If someone declines to write a referral letter for you, don’t take it personally. Simply thank them for their time and effort, and consider asking someone else who may be able to provide a strong letter of recommendation.
Can I edit a referral letter once it has been written?
Yes, you can edit a referral letter once it has been written. However, it’s always a good idea to review the letter with the person who wrote it to ensure that you are not making any significant changes that may alter the meaning or tone of the letter.
How soon should I request a referral letter?
You should request a referral letter as soon as possible, especially if you are applying for a job or program that has a deadline. Be sure to give the person enough time to write the letter and submit it before the deadline.
Conclusion
Requesting a referral letter can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a valuable asset to your job search or application process. Remember to choose the right person, provide context, be polite and professional, offer to provide additional information, and express your gratitude. With these tips and examples, you can create a strong and effective referral letter that will help you stand out from the competition.