Asking Candidates for References email template

Why does it matter?

The purpose of asking for references is to learn about the candidate’s work performance from the perspective of their former team. For example, understanding more about how the candidate contributes to the team, handles the workload, able to meet deadlines on time, and follows instructions, etc, can have a significant impact on whether or not they will be selected for the job.

When to send?

You can send this email after a successful interview with the candidate and you would like to know the opinions of their previous employers and workmates to confirm that they are the ideal candidate.

What to include?

Make sure to ask your candidates to send the following contact information below:

• Full Names of References 
• Their Phone Number or Emails 
• Their Working Relationship with the References. 

Template Email

Email subject line: [Job Title] at [Company Name]

Hi [Candidate’s First Name],

Thank you very much for your time with the interview for the [Job Title] position. We had a great time getting to know you and would like to proceed to the [Next / Final] stage of the process. Could you please provide me with [Two / Three] of your references? Please send me their full names, your working relationship with them, and their contact details such as their phone numbers or emails.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Best regards,
[Your Name] 
[Your Job Title] 
[Company Name]