Securing a new professional opportunity requires presenting references who can vouch for your capabilities and work ethic. While current supervisors offer immediate insight, references from previous roles provide a valuable historical perspective on your career growth. The challenge arises when attempting to reconnect with a former manager after several years have passed. However, it is possible to successfully secure a positive recommendation with a strategic and respectful approach.
Assess Your Options: Choosing the Best Reference
Selecting the most appropriate former boss is a strategic step that dictates the strength of the reference. The quality of the past working relationship should be the primary consideration, prioritizing supervisors who witnessed your best work and respected your contributions. A manager who can speak to specific, relevant accomplishments holds more value than one from a longer, less impactful tenure. Ensure the past role’s responsibilities align with the requirements of the current application, making their testimony directly applicable to your new goal.
Re-establishing Contact Before the Ask
Reconnecting with a former supervisor requires a warm-up message designed solely to re-establish rapport before making any request. A brief, professional email or LinkedIn message works well for this soft opening, acknowledging the time that has passed. Briefly remind them of your shared history, perhaps referencing a specific, positive project to jog their memory. Inquire about their current professional life to show genuine interest in their success. The formal reference request must be completely omitted from this initial communication.
This initial interaction allows the former manager to recall your professional history without the pressure of a commitment. Allow a reasonable amount of time for a response confirming their willingness to engage. If the former boss responds positively, you can proceed with the formal request in a subsequent communication. A non-response or a brief, non-committal reply indicates they are not positioned or willing to serve as a reference, signaling you should pursue another option.
Structuring the Formal Request and Key Details
Once you have successfully re-established rapport, the next communication should clearly articulate the reference request. This follow-up message must precisely state the specific job or program you are applying for, providing context for why their endorsement is valuable. Clarify the required format of the reference (phone call, written letter, or online submission form). Setting a clear deadline for the submission is also necessary to allow them sufficient time to prepare and deliver the reference promptly.
The most important component is phrasing the request as, “Are you comfortable and able to provide a positive reference for this specific opportunity?” This framing allows them an easy, professional exit if they cannot enthusiastically recommend you. Asking this directly avoids putting them in the awkward position of having to decline a general request later. Confirming their ability to speak positively ensures the reference will be a genuine asset to your application package.
Equipping Your Former Boss for Success
After receiving a positive commitment to serve as a reference, immediately provide all necessary materials to ensure they deliver an informed and relevant recommendation. This package should include:
- Your most current resume or curriculum vitae, allowing them to review your career trajectory.
- The detailed job description for the role you are seeking, which helps them tailor their comments to specific requirements.
- A concise, bulleted list of three to five specific accomplishments from your time working under them to jog their memory.
This preparation ensures their comments are current, applicable, and strongly aligned with the needs of the potential employer. Also provide any required forms, direct links for submission, and specific talking points you hope they can emphasize, such as leadership or project management experience. Offering this detailed support minimizes the time commitment for your former boss and maximizes the strength of the resulting endorsement.
Post-Reference Etiquette and Gratitude
Following the submission, confirming the reference was successfully provided is the immediate next step. Promptly send a formal note of gratitude, such as a professional email or a handwritten card, expressing thanks for their time and endorsement. Maintain this relationship by providing an update on the outcome of the application process. Sharing the final result demonstrates respect for their investment and helps preserve the professional connection for future needs.