Professional references and recommendation letters can help you get your next restaurant job. Many applications ask for two or three references.
This guide shows you who to ask, the exact words to use, and what to do if you don’t have good references. Tap 🔊 to hear each phrase.
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Reference vs recommendation letter
- A reference = a person the new employer can call or email to ask about you.
- A recommendation letter = a letter from a past manager that says good things about your work. You give it to the employer yourself.
You almost always need references. A letter is a bonus, and very useful if your old manager might be hard to find later.
The golden rule: ask before you leave
The best time to ask for a reference is on your last week, while your manager remembers you well. Get their personal phone number or email too. Work emails stop working when people change jobs.
Who to ask
- Your manager or assistant manager. This is the best choice.
- A shift leader or senior server who worked with you a lot.
- Another manager at the same restaurant, or the owner.
- New to restaurants? A teacher, a volunteer leader or a manager from a shop job.
Don’t use family or friends. And don’t use anyone who might say something bad.
How to ask for a reference
“I’m applying for a server job at a new restaurant. Would you be happy to be a reference for me?”
In person or by text, if you still work together.
“They might call to ask about my work and reliability.”
Tell them what to expect.
“Is this still the best number to reach you?”
Check their contact details are correct.
“Hi Sarah, this is Ana. I worked as a server at Oak Street Bistro in 2024. Would you be happy to be a reference for me?”
If it’s been a while. Say who you are and when you worked together.
How to ask for a recommendation letter
“I’ve really enjoyed working here. Would you be willing to write me a short recommendation letter?”
Best on your last week, after good feedback.
“I can send you a list of the things I did here, if that helps.”
Make it easy. Managers are busy.
A good letter says how long you worked there, your job, two or three strengths (like “always on time” or “great with guests”) and a clear line like “I would hire her again.”
Giving your references to an employer
Make a simple list: name, job title, restaurant, phone, email, and how they know you. Bring a printed copy to interviews.
“Yes, I have three references. Would you like me to email the list?”
When the employer asks in the interview.
“Hi Sarah, I just gave your number to a new restaurant. They may call you this week. Thank you!”
Always tell your reference before they get a call.
No good references? Try this
- Contact old managers even if it’s been a long time. Many people remember good workers.
- Use a shift leader if your manager has left.
- Use a non-restaurant reference: a shop manager, a teacher or a volunteer leader.
- If you were fired, don’t use that manager. Use people from other jobs, and be honest if asked.
Save this card and look at it before your next shift. On Pinterest? Pin it so you can find it fast.
Professional references: example dialogue
You: Hi Sarah, do you have a minute?
Manager: Sure, what’s up?
You: I’m applying for a server job at a new restaurant. Would you be happy to be a reference for me?
Manager: Of course. You’ve been great here.
You: Thank you! They might call to ask about my work and reliability.
Manager: No problem. Use my personal number.
You: Is this still the best number to reach you?
Manager: Yes, that’s the one.
You: Thank you so much. I’ll let you know how it goes.
Short, polite and clear. And at the end, a promise to tell her the result.
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Quick quiz
1. Who is the best reference?
A manager saw your work every day.
2. When is the best time to ask?
Your manager remembers you best while you still work there.
3. You gave a manager’s number to a new job. You…
A reference who expects the call gives a better answer.
FAQ
How do I ask my manager for a reference?
Say “I’m applying for a server job. Would you be happy to be a reference for me?” Then check their contact details.
How many references do restaurants want?
Usually two or three. Have one or two extra people ready, in case someone doesn’t answer.
What if I have no restaurant references?
Use a manager from another job, a teacher or a volunteer leader. They can talk about your work and reliability.
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