I'm Abdel, a McDonald's crew member. Asking for a reference can feel uncomfortable, but managers get these requests often, and it becomes easier once you know how to approach it. I have learned that a polite, direct request usually works best.
Reference policies may vary by market, franchise organization, and restaurant. Some organizations only allow certain people to provide references or limit what can be said, so it is worth asking how it works where you are.
Choose the right person
A good reference comes from someone who has seen your work and can speak honestly about it. Think about:
| Consider | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Who has worked with you most | They can give real examples |
| Who has seen your strengths | They can talk about the skills the new job needs |
| Who still has a good impression | Their view is likely to help you |
| Who has a suitable title | Some employers want a supervisor, not a coworker |
| Who is reachable | They will need to reply when contacted |
A Shift Manager or Restaurant Manager who has often worked with you is usually a good choice. A Crew Trainer may also know your work well, although a new employer may prefer someone in a management position. Follow any instructions on the application.
Ask before you list them
Do not give someone's name without asking them first. A surprise phone call may not go well, and they may be less prepared to talk about you. Asking first also gives them a chance to say no, which is better for everyone.
Choose a quiet moment, away from the rush. Be polite and direct:
I'm applying for a new position, and I'm looking for someone who could provide a reference. You've seen my work here, so I was wondering if you would feel comfortable being a reference for me?
The phrase "feel comfortable" gives them an easy way out if they do not think they can give you a good reference. That is useful information, and it is better to know now.
If you do not want your restaurant to know about your job search yet, you may need to be careful about the timing. You could use a former manager, or ask an employer not to contact your current workplace until later in the process.
Give them what they need
Once someone agrees, make it easy for them:
- The job you are applying for. Include the title and the company.
- Why you are interested. A sentence or two is enough.
- The skills that matter. Tell them what the employer is looking for.
- Some reminders. Offer examples of your good work.
- Your dates and title. They might not remember the details.
- Who may contact them, and when.
Here is a simple way of doing it:
Thank you so much. I'm applying for a customer service role at a local company. They're looking for someone reliable who is good with people. If it helps, I've been here for two years, and I've been helping to train new team members on the counter. They may contact you in the next couple of weeks.
Check their contact details
Ask which contact details they would like you to share, and how they would like to be contacted. Make sure you spell their name correctly and use their correct title. Do not share their personal phone number without permission. If your organization has rules on references, follow them.
Other people you could ask
If your manager is not an option, you may have other choices:
- A former manager, even if they have moved elsewhere.
- A Crew Trainer or senior team member who knows your work.
- A teacher, coach, or volunteer coordinator.
- Someone from another job.
Avoid family members and friends, unless an application says that personal references are acceptable. Some applications specifically ask for a personal reference, so read the instructions carefully.
If they say no
A manager might say no, for several reasons. Their organization might have a policy, or they might feel they do not know your work well enough. Try not to take it personally:
I understand. Thank you for letting me know. Is there anyone else you think I should ask?
If it is about your performance, you may want to ask gently what you could do differently. It is much better to find out now than to have them give a reference that hurts your chances.
Some employers only confirm basic details, such as your job title and dates. If that is your employer's policy, you may want to ask someone else who can speak personally about your work, if they are allowed to.
Keep your reputation strong
Your references begin long before you ask for them. If you are thinking ahead:
- Stay reliable until your last day.
- Keep your relationships positive.
- Ask for references before you leave, while your work is still fresh in their mind.
- Save contact details, with permission, so you can find people later.
A good reputation comes from everyday habits. For more on that, this guide to how leadership selection works explains some of the qualities that people tend to notice. If you are leaving, make sure that you do it well, as that is what people will remember most.
Thank them, and follow up
Always thank your references, both when they agree and when they have helped you. Let them know what happened with your application:
Thank you again for being a reference. I got the job, and I start next month. I appreciate your support.
Even if you did not get the job, a short update is a kind gesture, and it helps to keep the relationship going. If you use the same person again, check in again first, as their situation may have changed.
Be honest about everything
Do not ask anyone to say anything untrue, and do not exaggerate your job title or duties on your application. Employers often check. If a reference tells a different story from your resume, you could lose the opportunity. You should be proud of your real experience. If you handled a tough moment, like a difficult guest complaint, that is the sort of thing that makes a strong and honest example.
Final thoughts
Asking for a reference is a normal part of working life. Choose someone who knows your work, ask them first, give them what they need, and thank them afterward. If they say no, thank them anyway and ask someone else.
Most managers remember what it was like to start out. Many will be glad to help if you have treated them, and your work, with respect.
