How to Ask Someone to be a Job Reference

When you are interviewing for a job, almost all potential employers will ask for references. The good news is that checking references is usually one of the last steps of the hiring process so it means you are almost at the finish line. Here’s how to ask someone to be a job reference so you get a stellar recommendation and are more likely to get an offer!

Choose a professional reference: 

Your references should be individuals who have worked closely with you, such as managers, direct reports, and colleagues from your department. If you’ve worked in multiple industries, choose references from the same industry as this job. Prioritize references who have worked with you most recently because they’re likely to be able to provide more specific feedback. If you’re a student or recent graduate without work experience, consider listing professors or academic advisors who can speak to your abilities. Avoid listing friends or family members unless the company explicitly requests character references, which is rare unless you’re being vetted for a security clearance.

Don’t choose someone from your current job: 

If you’re employed, don’t list someone from your current job because it could get back to your manager. If your manager and colleagues know you’re job searching, they might think you’re no longer committed to the role and company and have one foot out the door.

Ask for permission before listing someone: 

There are three reasons you should ask someone to be a reference before handing over their contact information. First, it’s polite and professional and shows that you value their time and appreciate their help. Second, it gives the person a chance to say “no” if they don’t think they worked closely enough with you or, as a worst-case scenario, wouldn’t provide positive feedback. Finally, it gives you a chance to explain the role and company so they can talk about skills relevant to the job.

Provide background information and updates: 

Once your former colleague agrees, tell them about the role and company. Mention the most important skills the employer is looking for and attach the job description so they can tailor their reference to the role. If you haven’t worked together recently, attach your resume so they understand your career trajectory and recent accomplishments. It can also be helpful to remind them of some of your biggest achievements from when you worked together. This is the most important tip for learning how to ask someone to be a job reference because most people won’t take this extra step and their reference check will likely be less tailored.

Keep your references updated throughout your job search: 

If you need to share references for other roles, always email your references, ask if you can list them, and tell them about the role and company. If you get the job, let them know and thank them again for their help! They’ll be excited for you!

Here are two templates you can modify based on your relationship. If you were work BFFs, you can be more casual than if you’re asking your former boss’ boss. 

Hi [Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I’m reaching out to see if you’d be comfortable with me listing you as a reference for the [title] job at [company name]. They are looking for someone with [xyz skills]. As my former manager, I think you’d be able to speak to my skills and work ethic.

Please let me know if you are willing to be a reference, and I will send the job description and an updated resume. Thank you for your consideration!

Best,

[Name]

Hi [Name],

I miss working with you! I’m interviewing to be a [title] at [company name], and they’ve asked me to provide references. I thought of you because we worked closely together in a similar role so you saw my [xyz most important skills to the job] skills in action.

Please let me know if you’d be willing to be a reference, and I’ll send the job description and an updated resume your way. Thank you so much for your consideration!

Best,

[Name]