References
Similar to a recommendation request, a reference is usually a request for somebody to provide information about character as well as work habits. Take a look at the following samples.
Dear Ms. Cornelius:
I plan to send copies of my resume to a number of local businesses with the intent of soliciting more writing assignments. Should I receive any positive responses from that effort, I'm wondering if I could have your permission to use you as a reference.
[If there is any chance the recipient of this letter may not recall on which projects you've worked together in the past, list some examples here.]
Regardless of your decision, I thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Dear Mr. Hebert:
By all means, feel free to use me as a reference. I am more than happy to help in any way that I can.
Good luck in your search for more work.
Sincerely,
Dear Mr. Hebert,
It is with regret that I need to inform you that I am unable to grant permission for you to use me as a reference at this time. You may recall that the work you did for this company was done under a confidentiality agreement; company officials advise that any mention of that work would violate that agreement.
Good luck in your search for more work.
Sincerely,
When you must refuse someone's request, do so gently and with tact. While it isn't necessary to state your reason for doing so, giving your reason is the polite thing to do if (and only if) you can do so in a positive manner.
