Landing a new opportunity often starts with making a strong connection. When you've been referred to a company or a specific person, it’s a fantastic head start. However, simply knowing someone introduced you isn't enough; you need to effectively communicate that introduction. This guide will walk you through exactly How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred, ensuring you leverage that referral to its fullest potential.
Leveraging Your Connection: The Core of Your Referral Email
The most crucial element of any email when you have been referred is clearly stating who referred you and, if possible, the context of that referral. This immediately gives your email credibility and makes it more likely to be read and considered seriously. Mentioning your referrer's name upfront is your golden ticket. It establishes an immediate connection and shows you’ve done your homework.
- Start with a clear and concise subject line.
- Politely introduce yourself.
- State the name of your referrer.
- Briefly explain how the referrer knows the recipient or why they suggested you reach out.
Think of your referral email as a bridge. Your referrer has built the foundation, and your email is the structure that spans the gap. You need to make it sturdy and inviting. Remember to tailor your message to the specific role or opportunity you’re interested in. Don't just send a generic email; show you’ve researched the company and understand what they’re looking for.
| Key Elements | Why It's Important |
|---|---|
| Referrer's Name | Establishes immediate credibility and trust. |
| Context of Referral | Helps the recipient recall the introduction and understand its significance. |
| Enthusiasm for the Opportunity | Shows genuine interest and that you're not just randomly applying. |
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred for a Specific Job Opening
Subject: Referral from [Referrer's Name] - Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the job posting, e.g., LinkedIn, company website]. My colleague, [Referrer's Name] from the [Referrer's Department, if applicable] department, suggested I reach out to you directly. [Referrer's Name] spoke highly of your team and the impactful work being done at [Company Name], and mentioned that my skills in [Mention 1-2 key skills relevant to the job] would be a strong asset to your organization.
Having followed [Company Name]'s work in [Industry/Specific Project] for some time, I am particularly impressed by [Mention something specific you admire about the company]. My background in [Your relevant experience] and proven ability to [Quantifiable achievement] align perfectly with the requirements outlined in the job description.
I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications can benefit your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (Optional)]
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred for an Informational Interview
Subject: Referral from [Referrer's Name] - Informational Interview Request
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
[Referrer's Name], a [Referrer's title/relationship to recipient, e.g., former colleague, friend] of yours, kindly suggested I reach out. [He/She/They] mentioned your extensive experience in [Recipient's field/area of expertise] at [Company Name] and thought you might be willing to share some insights with me.
I am currently [Your current situation, e.g., a student at X university, exploring career changes] and am deeply interested in learning more about [Specific aspect of recipient's work/industry]. I greatly admire [Company Name]'s contributions to [Industry/Specific project], and I believe an informational conversation with you would be incredibly valuable as I navigate my own career path.
Would you be open to a brief 20-30 minute chat sometime in the coming weeks, perhaps over a virtual coffee? I am flexible with my schedule and would be happy to work around your availability.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to the possibility of hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred by a Mentor
Subject: Referral from [Mentor's Name] - Exploring Opportunities
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My mentor, [Mentor's Name], suggested I connect with you. [He/She/They] spoke highly of your leadership and expertise in [Recipient's field/company] and believed that you would be an excellent person to speak with as I explore potential career paths.
[Mentor's Name] and I have been discussing my aspirations in [Your desired field], and [he/she/they] thought your insights into [Specific area] would be invaluable. I am particularly interested in understanding [Specific question you have].
Would you be available for a brief conversation at your convenience? I am eager to learn from your experience and would be grateful for any advice you might offer.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile URL]
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred by a Friend of a Friend
Subject: Introduction via [Mutual Acquaintance's Name] - [Your Name]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My friend, [Friend's Name], mentioned that you work at [Company Name] in [Recipient's Department/Role]. [He/She/They] thought I should reach out as I'm currently looking for opportunities in [Your field of interest].
[Friend's Name] spoke about your experience with [Mention something specific about recipient's work or the company that your friend shared]. I am very interested in [Specific aspect of the company or industry] and would love to learn more about your role and experiences at [Company Name].
Would you be open to a brief chat sometime? I'm happy to adapt to your schedule.
Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred by a Former Colleague
Subject: Referral from [Referrer's Name] - [Your Name] - [Job Title/Interest Area]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
It's been a while since we worked together at [Previous Company Name]! [Referrer's Name] recently reached out and mentioned that you are now with [Company Name]. [He/She/They] suggested I connect with you as I am actively seeking opportunities in [Your field of interest] and have heard great things about [Company Name].
[Referrer's Name] specifically mentioned your expertise in [Recipient's area of expertise] and thought you might be a valuable contact for me. I am particularly interested in [Specific aspect of the company or role].
Would you have some time in the coming days or weeks for a brief chat so I could learn more about your experience at [Company Name] and any potential openings that might align with my background in [Your relevant skills/experience]?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile URL]
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred by an Industry Event Contact
Subject: Following up from [Event Name] - Referral from [Referrer's Name]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
It was a pleasure meeting you briefly at [Event Name] on [Date of Event]. [Referrer's Name], who I met at the event and who also knows you from [Referrer's connection to recipient, e.g., a mutual acquaintance, a previous collaboration], suggested I follow up with you.
[Referrer's Name] mentioned your insights on [Specific topic discussed at the event or recipient's expertise] and thought I might benefit from learning more about [Company Name]'s work in this area. I am particularly interested in [Specific aspect of company/role related to the event].
Would you be available for a short call sometime to discuss this further? I am eager to learn more about your work and [Company Name].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred by a Professor
Subject: Referral from Professor [Professor's Last Name] - [Your Name] - Inquiry about [Field/Department]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
Professor [Professor's Last Name] from the [Professor's Department] at [University Name] suggested I reach out to you. [He/She/They] spoke highly of your work at [Company Name] in the field of [Recipient's field] and believed you would be an excellent person to guide me as I explore career opportunities after graduation.
I am a [Your Year, e.g., senior] student majoring in [Your Major] with a strong interest in [Specific area relevant to recipient's work]. Professor [Professor's Last Name] thought my background in [Your relevant coursework/projects] might align with the work being done by your team.
Would you be available for a brief conversation sometime in the coming weeks? I am eager to learn more about your career path and any advice you might have for students interested in pursuing a career in [Recipient's field].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID (Optional)]
[Your University Email]
How to Write an Email When You Have Been Referred by a Client (if you are a service provider)
Subject: Referral from [Client's Name] - [Your Company Name] - Inquiry for [Recipient's Company Name]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
Our mutual client, [Client's Name] from [Client's Company Name], kindly suggested I reach out to you. [He/She/They] mentioned that [Recipient's Company Name] might be interested in our services in [Your service area].
[Client's Name] was very pleased with our work on [Briefly mention a project or service provided to the client] and thought our expertise in [Your specific expertise] could be a valuable asset to your team at [Recipient's Company Name], particularly in relation to [Mention a potential need of recipient's company, if known].
I would love to schedule a brief call to discuss your current needs and how [Your Company Name] can help you achieve your goals. Would you be available for a short introductory meeting sometime next week?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company Name]
[Your Website]
Crafting an effective email when you've been referred is about more than just sending a message; it's about strategic communication. By clearly stating your referrer, providing context, and expressing genuine interest, you significantly increase your chances of making a positive impression. Remember to always personalize your message, proofread carefully, and be professional in your tone. Following these guidelines will help you navigate the referral process smoothly and effectively open doors to new opportunities.