Referrals often open doors that job applications alone can’t.
A short, well-written email can help you get noticed, get recommended, and get hired faster.
In this article, you’ll learn how to ask someone to refer you for a job via email, plus get 8 templates you can copy, personalize, and send.
8 Job Referral Emails to Help You Get Hired Faster
1. Referral Request from a Mutual Connection
Subject line: Referral request for [Job Title] at [Company Name]
Email template:
Hi [First Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I recently applied for the [insert job title] position at [company name] and noticed you’re connected with [Referrer’s Name].
I’m very interested in this job opportunity and believe my background in [mention key skills or relevant experience] makes me a strong candidate.
If you feel comfortable, would you be open to referring me for this role? I’ve attached my current resume and the job description for context. I’d be happy to share more if needed.
Thanks in advance for considering this referral request.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Contact details]
2. Referral Email to a Former Manager
Subject line: Referral request for [Job Title] at [Company Name]
Email template:
Hi [First Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I’m currently applying for the [job title] role at [company name] and thought of reaching out since we worked closely on several projects at [Previous Company].
Your support would mean a lot, especially as someone who’s familiar with my work ethic and relevant skills. If you’re open to it, I’d greatly appreciate a brief referral or even a quick note to the hiring manager.
I’ve included my updated resume and the job posting below. Let me know if you need any additional information.
Thank you again,
[Your Name]
[Contact details]
3. Referral Request to a Family Member in the Company
Subject line: Can you refer me for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]?
Email template:
Hi [First Name],
I saw a job opening for a [job title] at [company name] and immediately thought it could be a great fit based on my experience and qualifications. I know you're part of the team there, so I wanted to ask if you’d feel comfortable referring me through the employee referral program.
I’ve tailored my resume and cover letter for the role, and I’d be happy to send over anything else you need. I really appreciate your help and understand completely if it’s not possible.
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
4. Referral Email to Someone You Met at a Networking Event
Subject line: Great meeting you at [Event Name] - referral request for [Job Title]
Email template:
Hi [First Name],
It was great meeting you at [Networking Event] last week. I really enjoyed our conversation about the [industry or topic], and I appreciated your insights on the [company name] team.
I noticed a [job title] opening at your company and would love to be considered. If you're comfortable referring me or pointing me to the right person, I’d be truly grateful. I believe my experience and qualifications align well with the job description.
I’ve attached my resume and cover letter for reference. Let me know if you need anything else.
Saludos cordiales,
[Su nombre]
5. Referral Request After a Job Interview (Same Company, Different Role)
Subject line: Referral request for a new opportunity at [Company Name]
Email template:
Hi [First Name],
Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the [previous job title] position at [company name]. I appreciated the chance to connect and learn more about your team.
Although that role wasn't the right fit, I noticed a new [job title] opening that’s much closer to my skills and experience. I wanted to ask if you'd be open to referring me for this new position, or passing my resume to the hiring manager.
I’ve included my updated resume and the job description. Please let me know if you’d like any additional information.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
6. Referral Request to Someone You Worked with Briefly
Subject line: Would you be open to a quick referral for [Job Title]?
Email template:
Hi [First Name],
I hope you're doing well. We worked together briefly on [Project Name] at [Company], and I really appreciated your collaborative approach and professionalism.
I’m currently applying for a [job title] role at [company name] and thought of you as a potential reference. If you’re comfortable, would you be open to sending a brief referral or passing my resume along to the hiring team?
I’ve attached my resume and job description below. Thanks for considering it. I know we didn’t work together for long, but even a quick note could make all the difference.
Saludos cordiales,
[Su nombre]
7. Referral Email for a Role Shared by a Mutual Friend
Subject line: [Mutual Friend’s Name] mentioned an opening at [Company Name]
Email template:
Hi [First Name],
[Mutual Friend’s Name] recently shared a job posting for a [job title] at [company name], and I wanted to reach out directly. Based on my background in [mention key skills or relevant field], I believe I’d be a good fit for the role.
If you’re open to it, I’d really appreciate a referral or a quick introduction to the hiring manager. I’ve attached my resume and included my contact details below.
Thanks again! I truly value your time and help.
Saludos cordiales,
[Su nombre]
Make Your Referral Follow-Ups Smarter with MailTracker
If you’ve already sent a referral email and want to stay on top of the process, use MailTracker to know if your email was opened, ignored, or revisited.
With real-time open and link click tracking, you’ll know exactly when to send a polite follow-up.
FAQs
How do I write a strong job referral letter?
Keep your referral letter concise and focused on the person’s qualifications, job requirements, and fit for the role. Mention your relationship, relevant projects, and why the candidate is a good reference for the position.
Is it okay to ask a former manager or mentor for a referral?
Yes. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask for a referral from a past manager, mentor, or team lead, as long as you had a strong working relationship. Be polite in your reference request, include key details like the job title, and attach your resume to make the referral process easier.
