Referral ask scripts: three templates you can copy

Three referral asks you can copy and edit

These are fill-in templates for asking someone to refer you. Change them until they sound like you, and only say things that are true. The thinking behind them is in how to ask for a referral without being weird. The base wording follows sample language from UC Berkeley's career center, adapted here.

Before you send any of them

- Pick the exact role and have the link ready.

- Learn what the person does at the company.

- Ask whether the company has a referral process, since Berkeley notes referrals are common in tech, consulting and finance but not expected everywhere.

- Have your resume ready to attach.

Script 1: Someone you know well

Hi [name], hope you're doing well. I'm applying for [role] at [company] ([link]). I think my [one proof point, e.g. a project or result] is a real match for it. Would you be open to referring me? I can send a two-line blurb you can forward so it takes you a minute. Totally fine if it's not a fit or you'd rather not.

Script 2: Someone you know a little

Hi [name], I've really enjoyed learning about your work on [team or topic]. I'm very interested in opportunities at [company], and [role] ([link]) caught my attention because [specific reason]. If you feel comfortable, would you be open to taking a quick look at my resume and considering a referral if you think I'm a good fit? Either way, thank you for your time.

Script 3: Someone you have just met (or only message online)

Do not ask for a referral in the first message. Start with advice, then ask later.

Hi [name], I'm [one line about you]. I saw your work on [specific thing] and found it [genuine reaction]. I'm exploring roles in [area] and would love 15 minutes to hear how you got into [their role] and what the team looks like. Happy to work around your schedule.

After the conversation, and only if it went well and you are still interested, follow up:

Thank you again for your time on [day]. I've since looked at [role] ([link]) and it matches what we talked about. Do you have any advice on how to approach it, and would you be open to a referral if you think I'd be a fit?

Short blurb to make it easy for them

Send this with the ask so they can forward it without writing anything:

[Your name] is applying for [role]. [Two lines on the most relevant proof, with specifics]. Resume attached. Link: [link].

If they say yes

- Thank them and ask whether you should apply online first. Berkeley suggests asking about next steps and timelines.

- Send your resume and link right away.

- Tell them what happens after.

If they say no or do not reply

Thank them for the honesty. A no may be policy, timing, or that they do not yet know your work well enough. Berkeley suggests: "I completely understand, thank you again for your time. Do you have any advice on how I could strengthen my candidacy?" For no reply, one polite nudge after about a week is plenty. Then let it go.

Thank-you note

Thank you for [what they did]. I'll keep you posted on how it goes. Wishing you a good [week].

Berkeley recommends following up within one or two days with a thank-you message.

Checklist

- The role and link are in the message.

- It gives them an easy way to say no.

- It asks them to look at my resume, not vouch blind.

- I attached a short blurb.

- I will thank them whatever the answer is.

Never job hunt alone.