How do I ask for a reference?

Contact the person directly, remind them of your working relationship, explain what the reference is for, and give them time to prepare.

What should a reference request include?

Your relationship to the referee, the position you're pursuing, why you chose them, and any specific points you'd like them to address.

When should I send a reference request?

At least 2-3 weeks before the reference is needed. Give your referee enough time to prepare a thoughtful response.

Professional

Reference Request Generator

Ask for references politely and professionally. Powered by AI — get a professional, ready-to-send letter in under 30 seconds.

ProfessionalWarmFormal

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Sample Reference Request

A complete example you can adapt. Replace the [bracketed] details with your own — or generate a personalized version in 30 seconds.

Dear [Referee Name], I hope you are well. I am applying for [role, course or other opportunity] with [Organization] and would like to ask whether you would be willing to provide a reference for me. I thought of you because we [describe your relationship and the work or study you shared] during [period]. Your perspective on [relevant aspect of that relationship] would be particularly helpful for this application. The organization requests [the type of reference or submission method], with a deadline of [date]. If you are comfortable agreeing, I can send the role or course details, my current resume and a summary of the relevant work to make the process easier. Please let me know whether you are available and happy to act as my referee. I understand if your schedule does not allow it, and thank you for considering the request. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Generate your personalized reference request

When to use this letter

Use this to ask a potential referee for permission before supplying their details or requesting a reference.

What to include

The opportunity and organization
Your relationship with the proposed referee
The requested reference format and deadline
Information you can provide to help them decide

Common mistakes to avoid

Writing the reference as though you are the referee
Listing someone as a referee before asking
Leaving the submission method or deadline unclear

Generate your personalized reference request

Select letter type

Ask for references politely and professionally

Referee Name

Your Relationship

What It's For

Your Name

Output Language

Select tone

Fill in your Reference Request details on the left

Your polished letter will appear here in about 30 seconds

Example output

[Date]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to you regarding [your specific situation].

[The AI personalises this section using the details you fill in on the left — every letter is unique to your situation.]

[Additional context and supporting details get woven naturally throughout.]

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

What you'll need

Fill in these details and our AI will craft your reference request instantly:

Your Name
Referee Name
Your Relationship
What It's For

How it works

1Fill in the details about your reference request
2Choose your preferred tone: Professional, Warm, Formal
3Click generate and get your professional letter in seconds
4Copy, download as PDF, or regenerate as needed

Frequently asked: Reference Request