Employee Referrals from External Network Email Template

Encouraging referrals from an external network—such as industry peers, former colleagues, or professional contacts—helps tap into high-quality candidates. A compelling email should highlight the benefits of referring candidates and make the process easy.

What to Include in an Employee Referrals from External Network Email

• Personalized Greeting: Address the recipient by name.
• Purpose of the Email: Explain why you're seeking referrals.
• Job Opportunity: Mention the role(s) you’re hiring for.
• Incentive (if applicable): Highlight any referral rewards.
• Easy Submission Process: Provide a simple way to refer candidates.
• Call to Action: Encourage them to share potential candidates.

Top 3 Employee Referral Email Templates

1. General External Referral Request

Subject: Know Someone Great? We’re Hiring!

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well! At [Company Name], we’re expanding our team and looking for exceptional talent. Based on your industry expertise, I wanted to reach out and see if you know any qualified professionals who would be a great fit for our [Job Title] role.

Here’s a bit about the role:

• Position: [Job Title]
• Location: [City/Remote]
• Key Skills: [Mention relevant skills]

If you know someone who might be interested, I’d love to connect with them! You can simply reply to this email with their details or share our referral link: [Referral Link].Looking forward to your recommendations!Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Company Name]

2. Referral Email with an Incentive

Subject: Earn a Reward for Referring Top Talent!

Hi [Recipient’s Name],

We’re hiring at [Company Name] and would love your help finding great candidates! If you refer someone for our [Job Title] role and they get hired, you’ll receive [mention incentive, e.g., a cash bonus, gift card, or recognition].

Job Details:

• Role: [Job Title]
• Location: [City/Remote]
• Why This Role Matters: [Briefly mention impact or career opportunity]

Know someone perfect for this role? Just reply with their contact details or share this referral link: [Referral Link]. We truly appreciate your help in building our team!Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Company Name]

3. Industry-Specific Referral Outreach

Subject: Help Us Find the Best Talent in [Industry]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

As a respected professional in [Industry/Field], you likely know some amazing talent in your network. At [Company Name], we’re currently looking for a [Job Title], and I’d love your help in finding the right candidate.

Why Refer?
✅ Help connect talented professionals with great opportunities
✅ Strengthen your network by recommending top candidates
✅ [Optional: Mention incentive if applicable]

If you know someone with experience in [mention relevant skills], please let me know! Feel free to reply to this email or use our referral portal: [Referral Link].

Looking forward to your recommendations!

Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Company Name]

Employee Referrals from External Network Email Checklist

✅ Clearly state the job role and why you’re reaching out
✅ Make it easy for the recipient to refer candidates
✅ Mention an incentive (if applicable) to encourage participation
✅ Keep the email professional yet engaging
✅ Include a clear call to action with a referral link or contact method

These templates help expand your talent pipeline through trusted networks! 🚀