How to Ask Someone to be a Reference via Email
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TL;DR: Strong references can make or break a job offer. Build relationships through consistent networking and professionalism ahead of time to have trusted contacts ready. Choose references who can provide detailed work examples and respond promptly. When asking, share your resume, LinkedIn profile and context about the role. Keep requests professional via email, never share contact details without consent and follow up respectfully. Always write a thank-you note.
Professional references are an important part of the interview process. They help potential employers connect with someone who can truly speak to the candidate’s experience and value. Founder and CEO Jack Kelly writes in Forbes, “Standard procedures for most companies include requiring the candidate to supply references before the offer letter is approved and executed.”
1. How to Build a Network of Potential References
Consistent networking over time ensures a candidate has a community of support at every stage of the job search. LinkedIn News Editor at Large for Jobs and Career Development Andrew Seaman said in his Get Hired Newsletter, “The connections you build throughout your life can open doors for you at many employers.”
Networking goes hand-in-hand with how a candidate carries themselves in the workplace. Kelly writes, “If you remain kind, hardworking and exercise good judgment, when you need assistance in your job search, there will always be people happy to help you.”
2. When and How to Choose Professional References
Compile a list of references when starting the job search. Think back to former colleagues and professional connections. Seaman said, “You need to make sure they will sing your praises and provide concrete examples of your work to a potential employer.”
Working ahead also saves time when a specific role is at stake. To choose the right reference, consider who is most likely to respond to the recruiter and give positive feedback. In a LinkedIn Learning course, Career Advice Podcaster Emilie Aries said, “They're someone who's willing to speak to a prospective next boss whether it's over the phone or via email or through an employer's applicant tracking system.”
3. What to Include in your Email Asking Someone to be a Reference
Keep the reference request email short and respectful. Include an updated resume and LinkedIn profile when asking someone to be a reference. Make it clear what is needed from them. Here's how:
- Provide context on the role
- Why they’re being asked in particular
- A reminder of your collaboration with them
- The logistics of what they can expect once agreeing to be a reference
Never share a person’s contact information without their consent. Email or phone is the preferred method of contact to keep the request professional. On LinkedIn Learning, Aries said, “Don't slide into anyone's DMs or ask for this via text, since those can easily get lost in the shuffle.”
4. How to Follow-Up on a Reference Request
Once a response is received, always send a thank-you note. If someone doesn’t respond, a respectful follow up is OK. Aries writes, “When this happens, and it usually plays out this way, give a little nudge with a text, phone call or email reminding them that they must submit the reference by a specific date.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Asking Someone to be a Reference via Email
- How do you choose the right person to be a reference? Select individuals who know your work well and can provide specific examples of your skills and achievements. Former managers, colleagues or professional mentors are ideal. Make sure they are responsive and comfortable speaking with potential employers.
- What should you include in an email requesting a reference? Share your updated resume and LinkedIn profile, explain the role you’re applying for and remind them of your past collaboration. Outline what you need from them and how the process works. Keep the message polite and professional.
- How should you follow up if a reference doesn’t respond? Wait a reasonable amount of time, then send a courteous reminder via email or phone. Mention any deadlines for submitting the reference. If they agree to help, thank them promptly.