Getting a referral for finance and fintech roles
What to put in a request for a finance or fintech role, and how to describe regulated or confidential work without sharing anything you should not.
Quick answer: Describe what you did and the result in general terms, name the tools or methods, and never share confidential details.
1 min read
In finance and fintech, referrers look for accuracy, judgement and care with sensitive information. A short, precise note works better than a long one, and it should show that you know what you can and cannot say.
Describe your work in general terms
- Say what you were responsible for, and what changed because of your work.
- Name the methods or tools you used, such as modelling, reconciliation or reporting.
- Leave out client names, figures from internal systems and anything covered by an agreement.
Show you understand the setting
If the role involves regulated activity, mention relevant qualifications or training you hold. Do not claim anything you could not support if asked, and do not guess at a company's internal rules.
Keep the request simple
Hi [name], I'm applying for the [role] position at [company]. I have [experience, described in general terms] and have attached my CV. Would you be willing to refer me? No problem at all if not.
Check the employer's own referral policy before you ask. Some roles have extra requirements, and your referrer will want to follow the rules.
Put it into practice
Browse rolesTry a free tool
- Project explainer · Describe a project in a few clear sentences: the problem, what you did and the result.
- CV checklist · Fifteen quick checks before you ask someone to refer you.
Guides on this site were last updated on 17 Oct 2026. This is general information, not advice for your situation.
Unfamiliar term? See the glossary.
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