Referrals for remote and hybrid roles
What to say about location, time zones and working patterns when you ask for a referral to a remote or hybrid role.
Quick answer: Say where you are, how you would work with the team's hours, and check the role's location rules before you ask.
1 min read
Remote and hybrid roles often come with rules about where you can live and how often you must be in an office. Setting out your situation clearly saves everyone time.
Check the role first
- Read the job description for the location, the expected days in the office and any limits on where you can work from.
- If it is unclear, ask your referrer or the recruiter rather than guessing.
- Employers may only hire in certain countries for a given role, so do not assume.
Say how you would work
- State your location and how your working hours overlap with the team's.
- Mention any experience of working remotely, such as how you stayed in touch with a team.
- Be clear about your right to work where it matters.
A short template
Hi [name], I'm applying for the [role] position at [company]. I'm based in [location] and would work [remotely / in the office on set days]. I've worked remotely for [time] and have attached my CV. Would you be willing to refer me? No problem at all if not.
If you are outside the UK, the guide on asking for a referral from abroad covers time zones and right to work in more detail. This is general information, not legal advice.
Put it into practice
Asking from abroadTry a free tool
- Application note builder · The short note to send with your application: strengths, availability and right to work.
- Referral message generator · A polite request, follow-up or thank-you you can edit and send.
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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