How to write a referral note that gets read
For employees who refer: a quick routine for notes that recruiters actually act on.
1 min read
A recruiter may see dozens of referral notes in a week. The ones that get read are short, specific and honest. This is a routine you can follow in about two minutes.
Lead with the match
Put the single strongest reason first. 'Four years running data pipelines, which is the core of this role' beats 'great candidate, highly recommend'.
A three-line routine
- Line one: how you know them, or that you reviewed their CV and have not worked with them.
- Line two: the one or two facts from their CV that match the job requirements.
- Line three: anything practical, such as location, notice period or right to work, if the candidate told you.
Words to avoid
- Superlatives you cannot back up.
- Anything about the candidate you have not seen or been told.
- Comments on personal characteristics. Stick to skills and experience.
Example
I haven't worked with [name], but their CV shows [specific experience] which maps to the [requirement] in the job description. They also mention [second match]. They are based in [location]. Worth a conversation, in my view.
Check your company's referral policy for any rules about what a note may contain. Doorstep gives you editable templates when you refer.
Put it into practice
Become a referrerTry a free tool
- Referral note builder · Draft a short, specific, honest note for your company's referral portal.
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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