When it’s time to leave a job, it’s important to have a reference letter to take with you. A reference letter can help you secure your next role, highlighting your skills and experience to potential employers. In this article, we’ll discuss the best ways to ask for a reference letter when leaving a job, provide tips to make the process smoother, and give seven examples of reference letter requests.
Tips for Asking for a Reference Letter When Leaving a Job
Here are some tips to help you ask for a reference letter when leaving your job:
1. Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for a reference letter. Plan ahead and give your employer enough time to write a quality letter.
2. Choose the Right Person
Choose someone who knows your work well and can speak positively about your skills and experience.
3. Provide Information
Provide your employer with all the necessary information, such as the job description for the role you’re applying for, your resume, and any relevant accomplishments.
4. Use a Professional Tone
Ask for the reference letter in a professional tone, and be sure to express your gratitude for their help.
5. Follow Up
If you don’t receive the reference letter after a reasonable amount of time, follow up with a friendly reminder.
6. Edit as Needed
Remember that you can always edit the reference letter if necessary, so don’t be afraid to ask for changes if needed.
7. Keep a Copy
Finally, make sure to keep a copy of the reference letter for your records.
7 Examples of Asking for a Reference Letter When Leaving a Job
1. Requesting a Reference Letter from a Manager
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As you know, I’ll be leaving my current position at [Company Name] at the end of this month to pursue new opportunities. I’ve enjoyed my time here and appreciate all the support you’ve given me over the years.
As I begin my job search, I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I’m confident that your letter would help me in my search and would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to staying in touch.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Requesting a Reference Letter from a Colleague
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As you know, I’ll be leaving my current position at [Company Name] at the end of this month to pursue new opportunities. I’ve appreciated working with you and wanted to thank you for your support and guidance during my time here.
As I begin my job search, I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. Your perspective on my skills and experience would be invaluable as I move forward in my career.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to staying in touch.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Requesting a Reference Letter for a Specific Job
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As you know, I’ll be leaving my current position at [Company Name] at the end of this month to pursue new opportunities. I wanted to reach out to you because I’m applying for a specific job at [Company Name] and was hoping you could write me a reference letter.
The job is [Job Title] and I believe my skills and experience would be a good fit. I’ve attached the job description and my resume for your reference. If you’re able to write me a letter, I’d be happy to provide any additional information you might need.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Requesting a Reference Letter for Grad School
Dear [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As you know, I’ll be graduating from [University Name] this year and am planning on applying to graduate school. I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter for my applications.
I’ve attached my resume and a list of the schools I’m applying to. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
5. Requesting a Reference Letter from a Former Employer
Dear [Former Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to reach out to you because I’m currently job searching and was hoping you could write me a reference letter. Your letter would be greatly appreciated, as I’ve always appreciated your mentorship and guidance during my time at [Company Name].
If you’re able to write me a letter, please let me know if there’s any additional information you need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
6. Requesting a Reference Letter for Volunteer Work
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m currently seeking volunteer opportunities and was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I enjoyed working with you and the team during my time as a volunteer and would appreciate your endorsement.
Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
7. Requesting a Reference Letter for an Internship
Dear [Internship Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As you know, my internship at [Company Name] is coming to a close. I wanted to reach out to you because I’m planning on applying for jobs in the near future and was hoping you could write me a reference letter.
I’ve learned a lot during my time here and appreciate all the support and guidance you’ve given me. If you’re able to write me a letter, please let me know if there’s any additional information you need from me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask for a reference letter when leaving a job?
When asking for a reference letter when leaving a job, it’s important to plan ahead, choose the right person, provide information, use a professional tone, follow up, edit as needed, and keep a copy for your records.
When is the best time to ask for a reference letter when leaving a job?
The best time to ask for a reference letter when leaving a job is before your last day of work. Give your employer enough time to write a quality letter.
Who should I ask for a reference letter when leaving a job?
You should ask someone who knows your work well and can speak positively about your skills and experience. This could be your manager, a colleague, or a former employer.
What information should I provide to the person writing my reference letter?
You should provide your resume, the job description for the role you’re applying for, and any relevant accomplishments that you want to highlight.
How do I follow up if I don’t receive my reference letter?
If you don’t receive your reference letter after a reasonable amount of time, follow up with a friendly reminder. Be sure to express your gratitude for their help and ask if there’s anything else you can provide to help them write the letter.
What should I do if I need to edit my reference letter?
If you need to edit your reference letter, don’t be afraid to ask for changes. Remember that this letter is about you, and you want it to represent you in the best way possible.
Conclusion
Asking for a reference letter when leaving a job can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips and using the examples provided, you can make the process smoother and ensure that you have a quality letter to take with you to your next job.