Skip to content
Screenpass
← All guidesFinding roles

How to ask for a referral (with a message that works)

Who to ask, when to ask, and a short message template that makes saying yes easy.

4 min read · Updated 5 November 2026

Who should you ask?

  • Former colleagues and classmates who work there now
  • Second-degree contacts via a mutual friend
  • People in the same function, who can vouch for the work

What should the message say?

Make it easy to say yes: the role link, why you fit in one line, and your resume attached.

  • “Hi Dana, I saw Linear is hiring a Senior Product Designer (link). I led onboarding at Monday.com and raised activation 18%, which maps closely to the role. Would you be open to referring me? Happy to send a two-line blurb you can paste. Thanks either way!”

When should you ask?

Before you apply, so the referral is attached to your application. If you already applied, ask anyway; a message to the recruiter still helps.

Frequently asked questions

Is it awkward to ask a stranger for a referral?

Less than you think, if the ask is specific and easy. Many companies pay referral bonuses, so a strong candidate is a favour to them too.

Check your resume against the screen before you apply.

Start free