How to Say You Were Referred by Someone in an Email
Networking plays a crucial role in professional growth and job hunting. When reaching out to someone for a job opportunity or seeking advice, mentioning a mutual contact who referred you can significantly increase your chances of receiving a positive response. However, knowing how to properly convey this information in an email can be challenging. In this article, we will discuss effective ways to mention that you were referred by someone in an email and provide answers to 12 common questions related to this topic.
Be direct and concise:
When mentioning a referral in an email, it is important to be direct and concise. Start your email by expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to connect and mention who referred you. For example:
“Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to reach out as I was recently referred to you by [Referrer’s Name], who suggested that I contact you regarding potential job opportunities at [Company Name].”
Provide context:
After mentioning the referral, provide a brief context about your background, skills, and experience. This will help the recipient understand how you can potentially contribute to their organization. For instance:
“I have been working in the marketing industry for five years, specializing in digital marketing and social media management. I recently completed a successful campaign for [Company Name], which resulted in a 20% increase in online engagement.”
Connect the dots:
To establish a connection between the referral and your skills, highlight any commonalities or shared experiences you have with the referrer or the recipient. This helps build trust and credibility. For example:
“[Referrer’s Name] and I have worked together at [Previous Company], where we collaborated on several projects, including a successful rebranding campaign. I believe my experience in brand management and my passion for creativity align well with the work you are doing at [Company Name].”
Demonstrate interest:
Convey your genuine interest in the recipient’s work or the company. Explain why you are specifically reaching out to them and how you believe your skills can contribute to their success. For instance:
“I have been following [Company Name]’s growth and innovative marketing strategies for quite some time, and I am impressed by the impact you have made in the industry. I would love the opportunity to contribute my skills and knowledge to further enhance your marketing efforts.”
Now, let’s move on to answering some common questions related to mentioning a referral in an email:
1. Should I mention the referral in the subject line?
While it is not necessary, mentioning the referral in the subject line can grab the recipient’s attention. For example, you could write: “Referred by [Referrer’s Name] – Interested in Job Opportunities.”
2. What if I don’t know the recipient’s email address?
If you don’t have the recipient’s email address, you can try reaching out through professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Alternatively, you can ask the referrer to introduce you via email.
3. How can I ensure that the referrer is comfortable with being mentioned?
Always seek permission from the referrer before mentioning their name in an email. Respect their decision if they prefer to remain anonymous or provide a general referral.
4. Is it appropriate to copy the referrer in the email?
Unless explicitly requested by the referrer, avoid copying them in the email. Trust that they have already informed the recipient about your potential reach-out.
5. Can I follow up with the referrer after sending the email?
Yes, it is appropriate to follow up with the referrer after sending the email. Express your gratitude for the referral and keep them updated on any progress or response you receive.
6. How long should the email be?
Keep your email concise and to the point, ideally no longer than four to five paragraphs. This ensures that the recipient can quickly grasp the main points.
7. Should I attach my resume and cover letter?
Unless specifically requested by the recipient, it is best to mention that your resume and cover letter are available upon their request. This shows respect for their time and allows them to request additional information if needed.
8. What if I don’t receive a response?
If you don’t receive a response after a reasonable amount of time, consider sending a polite follow-up email. It is possible that the recipient may have missed your initial email.
9. Can I mention multiple referrals in one email?
If you have multiple referrals who are relevant to the recipient, it is best to mention them separately in different emails. This allows you to personalize each email and highlight the specific connection.
10. Should I mention the referrer’s relationship with the recipient?
If the referrer has a close relationship with the recipient, such as being their colleague or supervisor, it is worth mentioning. This can lend additional credibility to your introduction.
11. Can I ask the referrer for additional information about the recipient?
If you need more information about the recipient or their organization, it is appropriate to reach out to the referrer and ask for their insights. However, be mindful of their time and keep your questions focused and concise.
12. What if the referral doesn’t lead to the desired outcome?
Even if the referral doesn’t lead to the desired outcome, it is important to express gratitude to both the referrer and the recipient for their time and consideration. Professional relationships can bring future opportunities, so maintaining a positive impression is crucial.
In conclusion, mentioning a referral in an email can significantly increase your chances of receiving a positive response. By being direct, providing context, connecting the dots, and demonstrating genuine interest, you can effectively convey that you were referred by someone. Remember to follow proper email etiquette and maintain professionalism in your communication.