5 Great Reference Request Email Templates To Copy & Paste

Asking for a professional reference is a common step when you're making your next big move, whether you're applying for a job, a program, or a new project.

Crafting that email doesn't have to be stressful. Using a template takes the pressure off, helping you write a clear and effective request in minutes.

Tips for Writing Reference Request Emails

• Make it easy for them to say no.
• It might seem backward, but giving your contact a polite way out shows respect for their time. A simple, "Please feel no obligation if you're too busy" takes the pressure off and keeps your relationship strong, no matter their answer.
• Do the heavy lifting.
• Don't make your reference dig for details. Attach your updated resume, the job description, and even a few bullet points on the skills or projects you'd like them to highlight. The easier you make it for them, the better the reference will be.
• Jog their memory.
• Briefly mention a specific project you worked on together or an achievement they witnessed. A quick reminder like, "I was hoping you could speak to my work on the Q4 client acquisition project" helps them recall concrete examples to share.
• Be clear about the deadline.
• Give them a specific date instead of a vague "as soon as possible." Aim to provide at least a week's notice so they don't have to rush. And once they've submitted it, a quick thank-you email goes a long way.

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] for [Job Title]

Dear [Reference’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to you today because I’m applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], and I was hoping you would be willing to serve as a professional reference for me.

The role focuses on [mention 1-2 key responsibilities from the job description], and I believe my experience with the [Project Name] we worked on together would make me a strong candidate. I immediately thought of you as a reference because of your direct insight into my work on that project.

I’ve attached my resume and the job description to give you a better sense of the role. The deadline for the reference is [Date]. Please let me know if you’d be comfortable providing a reference for me. Of course, I completely understand if you’re too busy or don’t feel you’re the right person to ask.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best,

[Your Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

</template>

2) Academic Reference Request Email Template

<template>

Subject: Academic Reference Request: [Your Name] for [Program Name]

Dear [Professor's/Dr.'s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I'm writing to request your support with a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program 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 thought of you specifically because this program aligns with the work I did on [mention a specific paper or project] in your class, and I believe you could speak to my academic capabilities in this area.

I’ve attached my CV, personal statement, and the program description to provide more context. The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. Please let me know if you’d be comfortable writing a letter for me. I completely understand if your schedule doesn't permit it.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Student ID Number]

[Your Email Address]

</template>

3) Character Reference Email Template

<template>

Subject: Character Reference for [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 character reference for me. I’m in the process of [mention the reason, e.g., applying for a volunteer position, a community board, a rental application], and they’ve requested a personal reference.

I thought of you because of our connection through [mention context, e.g., our time volunteering at XYZ, our friendship]. I believe you have a great perspective on my character, especially my [mention 1-2 key traits, e.g., reliability, integrity, or work ethic].

They may reach out via phone or email, and I wanted to give you a heads-up. The deadline is [Date]. Please let me know if this is something you’d be open to. I completely understand if your schedule doesn’t allow for it or if you’d prefer not to.

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 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 serve as a professional reference for me as I pursue a new opportunity.

I immediately thought of you because of our time working together on [Project or Initiative]. Your perspective on my skills in [mention 1-2 specific skills, e.g., project management, team leadership] would be incredibly valuable. I’ve attached my resume and some information about the role to give you a clear picture.

The deadline for the reference is [Date]. Please let me know if you’d be comfortable providing one. I completely understand if your schedule is too full or if you’d prefer not to.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Best,

[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 this email finds you well. I’m writing to ask if you would be willing to serve as a reference for me for the [Internship Title] position at [Company Name].

This internship focuses on [mention 1-2 key skills or areas], and I immediately thought of you. Your guidance during [mention the class, project, or experience] was incredibly helpful, and I believe you could speak to my work ethic and ability to learn quickly in a professional setting.

I’ve attached my resume and the internship description to provide more context. The deadline for the reference is [Date]. Please let me know if you’d be comfortable providing one. I completely understand if your schedule doesn’t permit it or if you’d prefer not to.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best,

[Your Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

</template>

What About Using Flodesk?

Once you've personalized these reference request templates, Flodesk provides an intuitive platform to send and manage your professional communications. Our tools are designed for small businesses, helping you create, send, and automate emails without needing any coding or design skills. It's a straightforward way to engage your audience and grow your network.

Join a community of over 100,000 businesses that use Flodesk to send effective emails. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, our platform is built to be simple. With our email builder, powerful automations, and well-designed forms, you have everything you need for your email marketing, minus the usual complexity.

Wrapping Up

Asking for a reference doesn't have to be complicated. With a clear template, you can confidently reach out and make a professional impression.

When you're ready to send your request, Flodesk helps you manage your professional communications with clean, well-designed emails. Sign up to get started.