5 Great Reference Request Email Templates To Copy & Paste

Asking for a professional reference is a necessary step for your next big move, and how you ask can make all the difference.

Using a template removes the guesswork and helps you write a request that’s easy for them to say yes to. We’ve gathered five types of reference request emails you can use to ask with confidence.

Tips for Writing Reference Request Emails

• Give them an out. It sounds counterintuitive, but making it easy for them to say no can make them more likely to say yes. A simple, “Please feel no pressure if you’re too busy,” shows you respect their time and removes any awkwardness.
• Do the heavy lifting for them. Don’t make your reference search for information. Attach your resume, the job description, and a short list of skills or projects you’d like them to highlight. The easier you make their job, the better your reference will be.
• Jog their memory. Briefly remind them of a specific project or accomplishment they witnessed. For example, “I was hoping you could speak to my work on the Q4 campaign.” This gives them concrete examples to pull from.
• Provide a clear deadline. Vague timelines create stress. Let them know the exact date the reference is needed, giving them at least a week’s notice. This helps them fit it into their schedule without feeling rushed.

Types of Reference Request Email Templates We Will Cover

1. Job Application Reference Email Template
2. Academic Reference Request Email Template
3. Character Reference Email Template
4. Professional Reference Email Template
5. Internship Reference Email Template

5 Reference Request Email Templates

1) Job Application Reference Email Template

<template>

Subject: Reference Request - [*Your Name*]

Dear [*Reference’s Name*],

I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to ask if you would be comfortable serving as a professional reference for me. I am currently applying for the [*Job Title*] position at [*Company Name*] and would be grateful for your endorsement.

I especially enjoyed our work together on [*Specific Project or Accomplishment*], and I believe your insight into my skills in that area would be valuable. To make things easier, I’ve attached my resume and the job description. They are looking for someone with experience in [*Skill 1*] and [*Skill 2*], which I believe you can speak to.

The deadline for them to receive the reference is [*Date*]. I know you’re busy, so please don’t feel obligated if your schedule doesn’t permit. I completely understand.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Phone Number*]

[*Your Email Address*]

</template>

2) Academic Reference Request Email Template

<template>

Subject: Academic Reference Request - [*Your Name*]

Dear [*Professor/Dr. Last Name*],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for my application to the [*Graduate Program/Scholarship Name*] at [*University Name*].

I was a student in your [*Course Name*] class during the [*Semester and Year*], and your insights on [*Specific Topic*] were particularly influential for me. I believe you could speak to my abilities in [*Skill 1, e.g., research*] and [*Skill 2, e.g., writing*], which are central to this application.

To make the process as smooth as possible, I have attached my CV, my statement of purpose, and details about the program. The submission deadline is [*Date*]. I know your schedule is demanding, so I completely understand if you are unable to provide a letter at this time.

Thank you for your time and for considering my request.

Sincerely,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Student ID Number*]

[*Your Major*]

</template>

3) Character Reference Email Template

<template>

Subject: Character Reference Request for [*Your Name*]

Dear [*Reference’s Name*],

I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to ask if you would be willing to provide a character reference for me. I am in the process of [*Reason for Reference, e.g., applying for a volunteer position, a housing application*], and a positive word from you would mean a lot.

Since we’ve known each other for [*Number of Years*], I believe you could speak to my character, especially my [*Quality 1, e.g., reliability*] and [*Quality 2, e.g., integrity*]. I’ve attached some information about the opportunity to give you more context.

The reference is needed by [*Date*]. I know you have a busy schedule, so please don’t feel obligated if you’re unable to. I completely understand.

Thank you for considering my request.

Best,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Phone Number*]

[*Your Email Address*]

</template>

4) Professional Reference Email Template

<template>

Subject: Professional Reference for [*Your Name*]

Dear [*Reference’s Name*],

I hope you’re doing well. I'm reaching out because I'm in the running for a new role and was hoping you might be willing to serve as a professional reference for me.

The position is [*Job Title*] at [*Company Name*]. I immediately thought of you because of our work together on [*Specific Project or Accomplishment*]. Your perspective on my contributions, particularly my skills in [*Skill 1*] and [*Skill 2*], would be incredibly helpful.

I've attached my resume and the job description to give you a full picture. They may reach out to you around [*Date or Timeframe*]. Of course, if you're too busy or don't feel comfortable, I completely understand. Please feel no pressure.

Thank you for considering this. I really appreciate your support.

Best regards,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Phone Number*]

[*Your Email Address*]

</template>

5) Internship Reference Email Template

<template>

Subject: Internship Reference Request - [*Your Name*]

Dear [*Reference’s Name*],

I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to ask if you would be willing to act as a reference for me as I apply for an internship position.

The role is the [*Internship Title*] at [*Company Name*]. I immediately thought of you because of your guidance in [*Class or Context, e.g., your Advanced Marketing course*]. I believe your perspective on my enthusiasm for [*Skill 1, e.g., digital marketing*] and my ability to [*Skill 2, e.g., learn quickly*] would be a great asset to my application.

To make things easy, I’ve attached my resume and the internship description. The deadline for the reference is [*Date*]. I know your schedule is demanding, so please feel no pressure if you are unable to provide one. I completely understand.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best,

[*Your Name*]

[*Your Phone Number*]

[*Your Email Address*]

</template>

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Wrapping Up

Asking for a reference is a key step in your career, and the right email sets you up for success. These templates provide a clear and professional starting point for your request.

Just as you build professional relationships one-on-one, you can build your brand with a wider audience through email. Start creating emails that connect with your community by trying Flodesk today.