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Ask for a referral or recommendation

Make it easy for someone to recommend you by giving them the context they need.

When to use it

Use when asking a contact for a referral, reference or LinkedIn recommendation. Make saying yes effortless.

The template

Hi [Name],

I hope you are well. I am applying for [role/opportunity] and would really value a recommendation from you, given we worked together on [shared project].

To make it easy, a few things you could mention: [point 1], [point 2]. No pressure at all if now is not a good time.

Thank you either way,
[Your name]
Replace these
[Name][role/opportunity][shared project][point 1][point 2][Your name]
Customize this in the tool
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Pick a tone

Formal

Dear [Name], I am applying for [role/opportunity] and would be grateful for a recommendation, given our work together on [shared project]. If helpful, you might speak to [point 1] and [point 2]. Thank you for considering it.

Friendly

Hi [Name], hope you are doing well! I am going for [role/opportunity] and a recommendation from you would mean a lot after [shared project]. If it helps, you could mention [point 1] or [point 2]. Totally fine to say no!

Concise

Hi [Name], I am applying for [role/opportunity] and would value a recommendation given [shared project]. Easy points to mention: [point 1], [point 2]. No pressure, and thank you.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Asking with no context, so they have to do all the work.
  • Not giving an easy out, which makes a no awkward.
  • Forgetting to remind them what you worked on together.

Make it yours in seconds

Paste your details and let iTextwise tailor this message to your reader, then check the tone and meaning before you send.

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