Reference Request Email

When to use this

Give them context, give them an out, make the ask specific. References are a favour; treat them that way.

Subject: A favour — would you be open to being a reference?

Dear [Name],

I hope you're well — I'm [brief context about your last touchpoint].

I'm in the late stages of a process for [Role] at [Company], and they've asked me for [2-3] references. You're someone whose perspective on my work I'd genuinely value, and I wondered whether you might be open to being one of them.

If it suits:
- They'd be in touch by [date]
- It would likely be a 20-minute call
- I'd be very happy to share the role spec ahead, so you've got context

If for any reason this isn't a yes — timing, workload, anything — please just say so. No awkwardness either way.

Whatever you decide, thank you for considering it.

Best,
[Your name]