📅 Published: June 10, 2026
A referral request should be short, specific, and respectful. Most people do not want to read a life story from someone they barely know.
Quick answer
Ask for a small next step first. Make it easy for the person to understand the role and your fit.
Ask for a small next step first. Make it easy for the person to understand the role and your fit.
Message to ask about a role
Soft referral message
Hi [Name], I saw that [Company] is hiring for [Role]. I am interested because my background includes [1-2 relevant skills]. If you are open to it, I would appreciate any quick insight on the team or hiring process before I apply.
Message after they respond
Referral follow-up
Thank you — that helps. I applied for the role here: [link or job ID]. If you feel comfortable referring me, I can send a short summary and resume to make it easy. No pressure either way.
What to include in your short summary
- target role
- years or type of relevant experience
- top 3 matching skills
- certification or tool if relevant
- one sentence about why the company or role fits
What not to do
- send a giant paragraph
- ask “can you get me hired?”
- pressure them after one message
- hide that you already applied
- send your resume before they agree
Helpful DamnJobs Resources
Before you send more applications, make sure your resume and job target actually match the role.