How to ask someone to be your reference via e mail
Here's a sample email you can use as a template to ask someone to be your reference:
Subject: Request for Professional Reference
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As I'm preparing to [apply for a job/graduate from a program/apply for a scholarship], I'm reaching out to ask if you would be willing to serve as a professional reference for me.
I've had the pleasure of working with you at [company/organization], and I believe your endorsement would carry significant weight in my application. Your insight into my skills, work ethic, and accomplishments would be invaluable in helping me stand out as a strong candidate.
If you're able to serve as a reference, please let me know and I'll send over a formal reference request form with more details about the opportunity and what I'm looking for in a reference. I'll also make sure to provide you with any necessary information and materials to help you prepare for the reference process.
In particular, I'd like to highlight [specific skills or accomplishments you'd like the reference to focus on]. I believe your endorsement would be especially helpful in [specific area of the application process].
If you're unable to serve as a reference, please let me know and I'll understand. I appreciate your time and consideration, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have worked with you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Some tips to keep in mind:
- Be clear and concise about what you're asking for and why you're asking for it.
- Show appreciation for the person's time and consideration.
- Provide as much information as possible to help them prepare for the reference process.
- Be respectful of their time and boundaries - don't assume they'll be able to serve as a reference without asking.
- Proofread your email for grammar and spelling errors before sending it.
Here's an example of a more formal reference request email:
Subject: Request for Professional Reference for [Your Name]
Dear [Name],
I am writing to formally request that you serve as a professional reference for me as I apply for [position/program/scholarship]. As someone who has worked with me at [company/organization], I believe your endorsement would carry significant weight in my application.
I would like to request that you provide a professional reference on my behalf, highlighting my skills, work ethic, and accomplishments. Specifically, I would like you to focus on [specific skills or accomplishments you'd like the reference to focus on].
To make it easier for you to provide a reference, I have attached a reference request form with more details about the opportunity and what I'm looking for in a reference.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and consideration, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have worked with you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Remember to customize the email to fit your specific situation and needs. Good luck!