What to say instead of “could you refer us?”
Why it can fall flat
“could you refer us?”
It leaves out who you want to be introduced to and why the person should vouch for you, so “could you refer us?” feels vague and abrupt. A specific, low-pressure introduction is usually the goal.
Say this instead
- 01
Hi Maria, we've enjoyed working on the website project with you. If you know anyone else who needs similar work, we'd be grateful for an introduction. A quick call to talk it through is always welcome too.
Client · Email
Send this after a project has gone well, once the client has seen the results and has reason to trust your work.
- 02
Hi Kai, thanks for the kind feedback on your order. If you know anyone who might like what we do, we'd really appreciate you mentioning us. There's no obligation at all.
Customer · Email
Right after a customer praises you is the best moment, since the request grows out of their own words.
- 03
Hi Sean, you know the finance team well. Would you mention our reporting tool to them next time it comes up? Just tell me if you'd rather not.
Coworker · Chat
A colleague gets one clear, specific task and an easy way to say no, so nothing feels like pressure.
- 04
Hi Michelle, After the warehouse rollout, I'd like to ask our main contact whether they'd recommend us to their sister office. Would you be comfortable making the introduction, or shall I reach out myself?
Boss · Email
Your boss gets the context and a choice about who approaches the client, which fits a request touching a client relationship.
- 05
Hi Hamish, it's Lena. Do you know anyone hiring a freelance editor? A name or an intro would help a lot. No worries if not!
Coworker · SMS
Texting a friendly colleague suits this one, and the casual close keeps the pressure low.
- 06
Hi Divya, thanks for the call last week. If any of your hiring clients are looking for someone with my logistics background, I'd appreciate being put forward. I can send my updated CV today.
Recruiter / HR · Email
Saying you want to be put forward for roles is clear, and offering your CV hands the recruiter something concrete to act on.
Examples
Hi Elena, Thanks for the positive feedback on the new booking page. We're taking on a few more projects this quarter, and a recommendation from you would mean a lot. Is there anyone in your network who might need similar help? Best wishes, Neha
Hi Kofi, quick one: would you be comfortable recommending our team to your contact in procurement? Just let me know if you'd rather not.
What to avoid
- Sending a bare “Could you refer us?” with no mention of whom it is for or what it is about.
- Asking while a problem is still open or the client is unhappy is a sure way to get a cold response.
- Phrasing that makes the person feel they owe you a favor will put them on the defensive.
- Sending the same message word for word to everyone makes the request feel mass-produced.
- Give the person room to say no instead of expecting an instant answer.