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Polite way to ask for a reference?
I'm applying for a volunteer position on campus and I need to give the contact information two faculty/staff members that are willing to be character references for me. I have two people that have been my references in the past, but I always asked in person. I'm not sure what to say in an email that doesn't seem rude. So far, I have:
Dear So and so,
I hope your summer is going well. I'm applying for [the organization] and I was wondering if you would be willing to be a character reference for me.
Thanks,
My name
Should I add anything else?
Email is their preferred method of contact (and of many busy people in the 21st century). Why would I write them a letter or give them a phone call for this? It's a simple volunteer position on campus, not a recommendation letter for graduate school or a job. I reserve phone calls for matters that must be resolved immediately, not a brief question that can be answered on their own time. They are busy people and I don't want to interrupt their day with a basic question. A letter would take far more time than an email to arrive and they would probably just email me back to tell me they are willing to do so.
Additionally, the application asks for the email address of my references, so I know the final correspondence (between my references and the director of the group I'm applying to) will be electronic. The reference letters they have submitted for me in the past have been online as well. Last, but not least, I email my references frequently with other matters (of professional and perso
3 Answers
- 1 decade agoFavorite Answer
Sounds great but I agree it is a bit short. Perhaps you could mention something about the organization you wish to volunteer with and all the good they do that you will be able to assist in as a volunteer; as well as what a great growth experience for you which will get you closer to your own personal and career goals
- ?Lv 61 decade ago
Um it seems a bit short, I'm sure they would give you a reference anyway since they have done before but maybe say something like... I'd really appreciate it or something after the last sentence.
- MoiLv 51 decade ago
Why are your emailing people you want to be character references for you? I'm sure that will be their question, too. Either write them a short note, or telephone each one, but do not email or text professional contacts.
