The process of asking someone to be a reference for you can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, if you take the time to do it correctly, it can actually be a very rewarding experience. Here are a few tips on how to ask someone to be a reference:
Choose the Right People
- Research your potential reference before contacting them if you do not know all of the relevant information you need to know about them. Check their online reputation and find out what kinds of references they’re typically willing to give.
- Choose a person who will speak highly of your skills and qualifications. These people could be mentors, past bosses, or colleagues.
- Talk with your potential reference about the kind of relationship you would like them to have with you and how they would like their involvement described. Decide if your reference is professional or personal.
- It’s also important to make sure that the person you’re asking is comfortable giving you a positive review. If you’re not sure whether or not they’ll be able to do that, it’s best not to ask them.
- Consider the possibility of rejection.
Not everyone is interested in being a reference, there’s no need to take this personally. Move on to your next choice.
However, if all goes well, getting approvals from your references will provide an immense amount of confidence and validation during your job search process.
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- Prepare the individual you choose to be your reference in advance.
Before asking someone to serve as a reference for you, it’s important to prepare them in advance. Send them your resume and the job listing so they know what position you’re applying for.
- It’s also helpful to give them an overview of your qualifications and why you’re the best candidate for the job. This way, they’ll be able to speak confidently about your skills when they’re contacted by a potential employer.
- Include in your synopsis a brief explanation of why you are requesting their help. Define whether they are a personal or a professional reference, and list any other relevant information that would be helpful for your reference to have while writing their reference letter for you.
For example, if there is something that you want to make sure they mention in their letter, let this be known in this letter. Make sure this written communication is personalized so that it feels genuine and doesn’t come across as cheesy or insincere.
- Ask how much time they will need.
Ask your reference how much time they’ll need to prepare for your requested letter. Typically, a few days are enough time, but sometimes more may be needed depending on the individual’s schedule.
This will give you a good idea of when you need to follow up if they need a reminder to complete the letter for you. It happens; people get busy. Do not take offense if this happens. They are doing you a favor, so try to understand that they have a busy schedule and be patient.
- After that, follow up
After someone has served as a reference for you, it’s important to follow up with them afterwards. It is appropriate to send a formal letter by mail. This shows effort and appreciation for what they did for you.
Did you get the job? Let them know.
In the letter, thank them for their time and let them know how everything went. Did you get the job? If you did, give them some credit in your follow-up letter, thanking them again.
If you didn’t get the job, this will let your reference know that this may be a continuing process where they may be called as a reference for a different position for you.
Following up by letting your reference know what happens and what comes next will show them that you appreciate their help and make them more likely to be willing to help you again in the future.
We hope you now have a clear and confident path to asking someone to be a reference for you. We wish you well on your journey to find the perfect job!
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