Sending an Email to Request a Reference

Sending an Email to Request a ReferenceSending an Email to Request a ReferenceHow you ask for a job reference can be as important aswho you select as a reference for a job. You want to select references who can portray your qualifications in the best possible light. You may write a letter or make a phone call, but its often most convenient to send an email message to request a recommendation for a job. How to Choose the Best References You probably know a lot of people who are willing to act as a reference for you and its a good idea to give some thought as towho will be the best at endorsing youfor this particular position. Its also vital to have alist of referenceswho will respond to reference requests in a responsive and timely manner. Professional referencesare a good choice, mainly because they have seen you in a corporate or work environment. They can attest to your work skills, and how you interact with colleagues and supervisors. They may even have a contact at your targe t company. Of course, there are times when using acharacter or personal referencemight be a good choice. If you dont have a lot of experience in your chosen field, or if your last supervisor wasnt your biggest fan, you may want to seek references from alternative sources. If someone you know personally has a contact at your target company, that can be very useful as well. Ask for Permission From the References After youve narrowed down your list of the best possible references for your job search, its time toask for permissionto include them as references. Its not a good idea to list someone as a reference on a job application if you havent asked them about being a reference for you. What to Include in the Email Message When writing to ask someone to provide a recommendation, be sure to reference your connection and explain why you feel they would make an ideal reference. Be sure to include your contact information, so they can easily get in nichts von if they need to ask ad ditional questions. Include a copy of your resume and details on the types of job youre interested in. This will provide the reference writer with some of the information they need to write an effective recommendation letter for you. The more information you can give the potential reference, the easier it will be for him or her to write a compelling letter endorsing your qualifications. If you need the reference by a specific date, be sure to mention It in your email. Give the person youre asking as much notice as possible. It can be time-consuming to write a good reference and you dont want them to have to rush to get it done. Writing Your Email Remember, people are busy, and most of us get tons of emails every day. Make sure the recipient knows this is a priority by utilizing the subject line of your email. Put your name and what youre asking for in the subject line of the message. For example, SubjectJeff Doe Reference Request will let the reader know who the message is from and what it is about, which will increase your chances of it being opened and read in a timely manner. Begin your request with asalutationand the persons name, followed by a comma or semicolon. On the next line, begin the body of the letter, where you ask for the person to be a reference. This is also where you should mention the nature and duration of your relationship, especially if the contact isnt one you are frequently in touch with. You should also provide some details about your job search, such as what the job is, why youre asking for their endorsement, and how this job is a good career move for you. To conclude, mention any additional materials you have attached, such as your resume and a copy of the job description or posting. Be sure to thank them for their time and consideration. Your emailclosingshould be followed by your name and contact information. Email Requesting a Reference for a Job Example (Text Version) SubjectPaul Katcher - Reference RequestDear Joan,I am in t he process of seeking a new position as a software architect and am hoping that you will provide a reference for me.Having worked with you for many years, I believe that you can provide potential employers with information about my skills that will enhance my chances of getting the job.I have enclosed an updated copy of my resume. Please let me know if there is additional information that you would need to act as a reference on my behalf.Thank you very much for taking the time to consider my request.Regards,Paul Katcher555-123-4567paulkemail.com Expand Remember to Follow Through People generally like to help others and appreciation is always important. When someone agrees to give you a reference, make sure you send athank youmessage right away. Its important to let the people in your network know that you appreciate their support and that you are willing to reciprocate if asked.