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:

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!