How To Ask A Former Coworker For A Job In 8 Steps & Helpful Tips

Requesting a referral from a former coworker is an effective way to get noticed by a new company. But how to ask a former coworker for a job?

But, approaching the topic can be challenging. Here are some tips to simplify the process.

Key Takeaways

• Positive Relationship: Ensure your relationship is positive before requesting a referral.
• Initial Contact: Start with a casual email or message to reconnect and update each other.
• Show Interest: Ask about their well-being and show genuine interest in their life.
• Ask for Advice: Seek their advice before requesting a referral, showing respect for their opinion.
• Request a Referral: Politely ask for a referral once you’ve reconnected and discussed potential opportunities.
• Express Gratitude: Always thank them for their help and support.
• Offer Help: Be willing to reciprocate their help in the future.
• Stay Connected: Maintain communication and updates even after requesting a favor.

8 Steps To Ask A Former Coworker For A Job

First, determine if your relationship with the person was positive. If not, it’s best not to ask for a referral.

Yet, if you had a good working relationship, it’s fine to ask, as most people are willing to help a former coworker.

So here are a few steps on how to ask a former coworker for a job:

1. Get In Touch:

Do you have their contact info? If not, check social media or LinkedIn. Once you have it, send a text or email.

If it’s been a while, update them on what you’ve been up to

You could say, “Hey, it’s been a while! What’s new with you?” or “I saw you’re at XYZ Company now—congrats! I’m at ABC Company.”

2. Ask Them How They’re Doing:

Before asking for a favor, showing interest in the other person’s life is courteous.

For example, you could say, “Congrats on the new job! How do you like it?” or “Your Europe trip sounds exciting! How’s the planning going?”

This makes them feel valued and increases the chances they’ll be willing to help.

3. Wait For Reply:

Wait for their response. They might not reply immediately if they’re busy, and that’s okay.

Give them a day or two to respond, and only contact them occasionally, as this could be annoying.

You could say, “I understand you’re busy. I’ll follow up in a few days.”

4. Ask For Their Advice:

Once you’ve reconnected, ask for their advice.

For example, say, “I’m thinking of applying to XYZ Company. Any tips?” or “I’m considering a career change. Any advice?”

This shows you value their opinion and makes them more likely to help. They can share insights and even recommend you to their company.

5. Ask For A Referral:

After seeking their advice, you can then ask for a referral.

Say, “I’m applying at XYZ Company. Could you recommend me?” or “I’m switching careers and would appreciate it if you could consider me for any openings at your company.”

Most people are glad to assist a former coworker, so don’t hesitate to ask.

6. Be Grateful:

Ensure you show your appreciation to the person for their help.

For example, say, “Thanks for your help. I appreciate your referral.”

Acknowledging their help makes them feel valued. It reassures them they’re not taken for granted, encouraging future help.

7. Offer To Help Them:

Let them know you’re available if they ever need a favor.

You could say, “I’m always happy to help. Just let me know if you ever need anything.”

This shows you’re not just a one-way street and makes them more likely to help you in return.

8. After Ward:

After asking for a favor, stay connected. Share updates on your job search or career change, and express gratitude for their referral.

This helps create a strong relationship based on genuine connection. You are making them more likely to support you again in the future.

So here are eight tips on how to ask a former coworker for a job.

Can I Send An Email To My Former Coworkers Asking For A Job?

Sending an email to former colleagues about job opportunities is beneficial. It allows time for thoughtful communication and easy sharing of your resume.

When you’re emailing a former coworker, make sure to:

1. Keep It Casual:

Keep your email casual to avoid sounding desperate. Instead of saying, “I need a job,” try something like, “I’m interested in hearing about any openings at your company.”

Also, consider asking for advice or a referral rather than directly asking for a job.

2. Be Professional:

Even though you’re keeping the tone casual, you still want to be professional.

Use proper grammar and punctuation. And proofread your email before sending it.

You should also avoid using any slang or abbreviations. Such as “u” instead of “you.”

3. Keep It Short:

Your email should be short and to the point. No one wants to read a long-winded email.

So get straight to the point. And be sure to thank the person for their time.

Sometimes, writing out what you want to say is helpful before you start typing.

4. Use A Professional Email Address:

Use a professional email address when contacting your former coworkers.

This means using an email address that has your name in it. Not something like “iluvpizza123” or “babydoll.”

If you don’t have a professional email address, you can create one free with Gmail or Yahoo.

Sample Email:

Subject: Job Inquiry

Hi Jim,

I hope all is going well with you. I’m interested in hearing about any openings at your company.

I’m attaching my resume and cover letter for your review.

If you have any time, I would appreciate a call at 555-555-1212.

Thank you for your time,

Hannah

5. Use A Professional Signature:

When you’re emailing a former coworker, be sure to use a professional signature.

Your signature should include your name, job title, and contact information.

You can also include your website or blog URL. And you can link to your social media profiles.

Sample Email 2:

Subject: Referral

Hi Jim, I hope all is going well with you. I have been looking at LinkedIn and saw that you work for a great company.

I am sending my resume and asking if you would be willing to refer me. Also, I understand if you are busy, but any help would be appreciated.

Thank you for your time,

Hannah

6. Follow Up:

After you’ve sent your email, follow up with the person. You can do this by sending a short email or making a phone call.

Thank them again for their time. And let them know you’re still interested in the job. When you call them, it is essential not to be a bother.

Keep the conversation short, sweet, and to the point.

7. Be Well Ready For Meeting:

When you’re meeting with the person, be sure to dress professionally. And come prepared with your resume and cover letter.

You should also have a list of questions to ask. This will show that you’re interested in the job and the company.

Asking questions also shows that you’re thinking and have done your research.

Your former coworker will impress your professionalism and interest in the job.

Following these tips can help you get a job through a former coworker.

Is Facebook, Instagram, or Snapchat Okay For Contacting Former Coworkers?

When trying to get a job, using the proper channels is essential. And that includes social media.

But which social media platform is the best to use? The answer is: it depends.

If you’re trying to reach out to a former coworker, Facebook is probably your best bet. This is because most people use Facebook to keep in touch with friends and family.

Instagram and Snapchat are also good options. But keep in mind that younger people mostly use these platforms.

So if your former coworker is in their 40s or 50s, they probably won’t be active on these platforms.

The bottom line is to use the platform you think your former coworker will most likely use.

Final Word:

To request a job from a former coworker, email them professionally. Use a formal signature and ensure follow-up.

When you meet, dress professionally and bring your resume and cover letter. Impress them by researching and asking thoughtful questions.

These steps can boost your chances of landing a job through a former coworker.

Last Updated on 6 months by Usama Ali