“What should I say when requesting a reference via email?”
Well, your first inclination shouldn't be to submit a request like this via e-mail. It can seem somewhat impersonal. We hope the contact to whom you’re reaching out actually knows you and has some kind of relationship with you. So why not shoot a quick phone call and say you can provide further details via email.
*For more details on personal vs professional references, check out our previous Facebook or Instagram posts.
Ok, now that we’ve got that out of the way it’s time to pose your request. Firstly, rather than asking, “Can you give me a reference?” ask them whether they feel qualified or comfortable providing you with a reference. Examples include:
“Do you think you know my work well enough to provide me with a reference?”
“Would you feel comfortable serving as my reference in my upcoming application?”
This allows them to refuse *politely* if they feel like they can’t give you the reference you need.
Secondly, ensure you include as much detail as possible in the email so your contact will be better equipped to complete the task. Attach a copy of your resume for reference or offer to provide it if they need more details. Always inform them of the name of the position to which you’re applying as well as the associated duties. This goes for written reference letters as well as listed references. Nothing’s worse than when an organisation follows up by calling your reference and they have no clue about the job. Due to privacy and confidentiality some businesses will not even disclose the nature of the job to your contact. Why? Because you were expected to explain the details of the application prior to listing someone as a reference.
Finally, whether you get the job or not, please follow up with your contacts to thank them for their efforts. Maintaining a good relationship means you can count on them to assist you in the future.
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