Free tool · Runs in your browser
Referral request message template
Know someone at a company you are applying to? Fill in their name, the company and the role, add the posting link if you have it, pick how well you know them, and copy a short, low-pressure request.
Private. Runs in your browser; nothing you type leaves your device.
Your text
Subject:
How to use it
- Fill in the details. Enter your contact's name, the company and the job title, and paste the link to the posting if you have it. The message updates as you type, and nothing you enter leaves your browser.
- Pick how well you know them. Use the close contact version for a friend or former teammate. Use the weak tie version for someone you met once, a friend of a friend or a contact you have not spoken to in years.
- Send it and make it easy. Copy the message into email or a direct message, leaving out the subject line if the app has none. If they say yes, send your resume and a few lines they can paste into the referral form.
Example
What was entered
- Their name
- Dana
- Company
- Juniper Analytics
- Job title
- Data Analyst
- Your name
- Priya Nair
- Job posting link
- careers.example.com/jobs/4821
Close contact
Subject: Would you refer me for the Data Analyst role?
Hi Dana,
I hope you are doing well. I am applying for the Data Analyst role at Juniper Analytics, and since you work there, I wanted to ask whether you would be comfortable referring me.
Here is the posting: careers.example.com/jobs/4821
I think the role is a strong fit for my experience, and I would also value your honest take on the team. If you are up for it, I will send my resume and a few lines you can paste into the referral form, so it takes as little of your time as possible.
No pressure at all if it is not something you can do. Thanks so much,
Priya Nair
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Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to ask someone I barely know for a referral?
Yes, as long as you are polite, specific and easy to turn down. Acknowledge that you do not know each other well, offer your resume so they can judge the fit, and ask whether they would be comfortable referring you rather than assuming they will.
Should I apply before or after asking for a referral?
Ask first where you can. Your contact may need to put your details through their own company's referral process before you apply, so check with them. If the posting is closing soon, ask them how they would like to handle it.
What should I send when someone agrees to refer me?
Send your resume, the job posting link and two or three sentences on why you fit the role. Thank them straight away, and let them know how the process goes, whatever the outcome.
Is my information sent anywhere?
No. This template runs in your browser: the message is filled in on this page as you type, and nothing you enter is sent to Applystead or anyone else. You copy the finished text and send it yourself.