Expert job search advice.

The e-mail you should send to your references

Have you prepared your references?

It’s likely that an employer— before they extend an offer— will ask you for 3-5 references. These are people who know you in a professional sense and who have ideally been past supervisors.

Here’s an example message:

Dear X:

Thank you for agreeing to be a reference for me. I am attaching my current resume, LinkedIn profile and a link to an article that highlights some of my prior work. I’ve also included a copy of the job description and a link to the LinkedIn profile of the hiring manager. During the interview process, they discussed how important it is to find someone who has been a change agent. Please consider emphasizing my work doing X with them. I’d really appreciate it if you would let me know if they reach out to you.

Thank you again.

Warmly,

XX

Also— be sure to notify references if you accept or decline an offer. They are invested in you and deserve an update.

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