A referral request should be personal, specific, and free of pressure.
Choose the right person
Ask someone who knows your work or can credibly speak about your fit. A weak connection may be uncomfortable endorsing you.
Provide the essentials
Share the role link, a short fit summary, and an updated resume. Do not make the person research the opportunity for you.
Make declining easy
Use wording that allows the contact to say no without embarrassment. Thank them regardless of the answer.
Quick reply checklist
- Acknowledge the message or situation.
- State your answer or purpose clearly.
- Include only relevant context.
- End with a useful next step.
- Check names, dates, facts, and tone.
Ready-to-copy examples
Ask for a Professional Referral
Ready-to-copy messages to request a referral without pressure.
View replies →Reply to an Offer of a Referral
Ready-to-copy messages to accept help and provide useful details.
View replies →Thank Someone for a Referral
Ready-to-copy messages to show appreciation and share a brief update.
View replies →