How to ask for a referral for a job

The people you can ask for a referral from mainly consists of professionals you have worked with, or for, and professors and other educational professionals from your academic career. You should select people that you are either close with or can vouch for your:

• Job performance

• Work ethic

• Skills

• Talents

• Knowledge

• Commitment

• Personal character

Some common referrals include former managers or supervisors, coworkers, colleagues, professors, and advisors.

• Determine how to ask

Determining how to ask comes down to the specific relationship you have with the professional you are asking for a referral from. Their position may also affect the tone in which you ask for the referral. How well you know the person and their personal stature within their industry or organization will dictate how you should ask them.

• Make the referral in writing

Using the format of an email or a letter is the best, often most persuasive, way to ask for a referral for a job. This way you can also include any additional materials that are necessary for this request. You should also include the most current copy of your resume and a copy of the job description for which you are seeking the referral.

• Make your request simple

The less difficult your request is, the more likely the person you are asking is going to be able to fulfill it in a timely manner. Additional materials you might want to include are things like your work portfolio, if this is applicable in your industry and desired role. You can also offer to draft a referral letter for their approval and signature if you know they are very busy.