Should I ask for a referral from someone I barely know?

You can, and this tool phrases that case honestly rather than pretending a closeness that is not there. Just expect a lower response rate than reaching an actual former colleague, and do not be discouraged if it goes unanswered.

What if I do not have the job link yet?

Leave it blank and the message still works, though including it makes it far easier for the contact to act on immediately rather than having to search for the posting themselves.

Is it worth referrals over just applying directly?

A referral usually moves an application past the initial resume screen faster, since it comes with an internal endorsement. It does not replace needing to actually interview well.

Referral request message builder

A referral request gets a yes when it is easy to act on: it names the exact role, includes a link so the person does not have to go hunting, and does not ask them to vouch for anything they cannot actually speak to.

This assembles your inputs into that shape with a fixed template, adjusting the opening line to how well you actually know the person. No AI writes any part of it.

Message ready

72 words

Your message

Hi there,

It has been a while since we worked together, and I hope things are going well at your company.

I saw your company is hiring for the open role, and I think it is a strong fit for me.

Would you be open to referring me, or pointing me to whoever handles that? Happy to send my resume over, whatever is easiest on your end.

Thanks either way,
Your name

Role: the open role
Company: your company
Relationship framing: Existing connection

Everything above is worked out in your browser. Nothing you type is sent to us or saved anywhere.

How this is worked out

The opening line changes based on how well you actually know the contact, since claiming closeness with someone you barely know reads badly and a cold message pretending otherwise reads worse.
The ask is phrased as low-effort for the contact: refer or point you to the right person, resume ready either way.
Nothing is generated. Every line is assembled directly from your inputs and the relationship you selected.

What this does not cover

There is no AI call here. The message is only as convincing as the highlight and relationship you actually have; this tool cannot manufacture a connection that does not exist.
It does not check whether the company or job link you entered is current.
A referral request to someone you have never met has a materially lower response rate than one going to an actual former colleague. Be honest with yourself about which one this is before sending.

Questions people ask

Should I ask for a referral from someone I barely know?: You can, and this tool phrases that case honestly rather than pretending a closeness that is not there. Just expect a lower response rate than reaching an actual former colleague, and do not be discouraged if it goes unanswered.
What if I do not have the job link yet?: Leave it blank and the message still works, though including it makes it far easier for the contact to act on immediately rather than having to search for the posting themselves.
Is it worth referrals over just applying directly?: A referral usually moves an application past the initial resume screen faster, since it comes with an internal endorsement. It does not replace needing to actually interview well.

Where these figures come from

Rates and rules on this page were last checked against the source on 31 August 2026. Tax law changes; check the source before you rely on a number for a decision.

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