Fill in the [brackets]
Subject: Would you be a referee for me?
Hi [Name], I hope you're well. I'm applying for [type of role] after my redundancy from [Company], and I'd be grateful if I could list you as a referee. You know my work well from [the time we worked together on X]. If you're happy to, it would help if you could speak about [my work on X, my reliability, how I handled Y]. I can send my CV, the job description and a short summary of the achievements you may remember. I'll let you know before each time your name is used, so you're not surprised by a call. If it's not convenient, I fully understand. Thank you, [Your name] [Phone]
Tips
- Always ask first. Agree the best contact details and whether they prefer phone or email.
- Choose people who can talk about recent, relevant work. Mix a manager, colleague and client.
- Tell them when a call is coming and what the job is.
- Send a thank-you afterwards and update them on the outcome.
- If your last employer would give a poor reference, ask for a statement of service and use other referees.
General information, not legal advice. Keep a copy of everything you send. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.