We all know how important a reference letter is and how far it can go to support your job application. This template shows you how to request a reference letter via email.
Sample 1: How to Ask For A Reference
This template is on how to request a professional recommendation from your former work supervisor.
Suggested Subject: Reference Request
Dear Stone,
My name is Mack James, and I’m reaching out to request a reference letter from you regarding the time I spent working under your supervision as an assistant logistic officer at Grey’s Logistics Company between 2015 and 2018.
I am reaching out because I’ve been interviewing for the head of operations at Queens Industry, and I would love to list your name as a reference if you’re willing. I thought of you because your insight into my work ethic, skills, and reliability could improve my chances of being offered the job.
Your opinion is precious to me because of how long we worked together and how much I learned under your supervision. I have attached my current resume and the position description for your reference. The hiring team is particularly looking for someone with the skills and experience I learned under your supervision, which I hope you can discuss.
I would very much appreciate it if you could find the time to write me a recommendation and speak about my skills as a logistics officer. I would be happy to send you any additional information you need. Thank you for your favorable consideration.
Sincerely,
Mack James
Sample 2: How to Ask For A Reference
The email is a formal request for a reference letter from a former employer for a job application.
Suggested Subject: Request for Reference Letter
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request a reference letter from you for a job I am applying for. As you know, I have worked with you at [Company] for [Duration] and I am grateful for the skills and knowledge I have acquired under your guidance. I believe a reference letter from you will enhance my chances of securing the position I am interested in.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you need any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: How to Ask For A Reference
The email is a formal request for an academic reference from a former professor for a postgraduate degree application.
Suggested Subject: Request for Academic Reference
Dear [Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am applying for a postgraduate degree in [Field] at [University] and must submit academic references. As one of my professors, I was hoping you would be willing to provide a reference for me.
Your feedback and evaluation would greatly contribute to my application process. Please let me know if this is possible and if there are any further details you need from me.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: How to Ask For A Reference
The email is a formal request for a personal reference from a former colleague for a job application.
Suggested Subject: Request for Personal Reference
Dear [Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am currently seeking employment and I am in need of a personal reference. I was hoping that you would be willing to provide a reference for me.
As a former colleague, I believe your recommendation will showcase my skills and work ethic to potential employers. Please let me know if this is possible and if there are any further details you need from me.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: How to Ask For A Reference
The email is a formal request for a character reference from someone who knows the applicant well for a volunteer position application.
Suggested Subject: Request for Character Reference
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for a volunteer position at [Organization] and I am required to submit a character reference. I was hoping that you would be willing to provide a reference for me.
Your opinion of my character and conduct would greatly contribute to my application process. Please let me know if this is possible and if there are any further details you need from me.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]