Effectively communicating how you were connected to someone is crucial in both professional and social contexts. While saying “I was referred to you by…” is perfectly acceptable, it can sometimes sound a bit formal or repetitive.
This article explores a variety of alternative phrases and sentence structures that convey the same information with nuance and style. Mastering these alternatives will enhance your communication skills, making you sound more natural and professional in various situations.
This guide is designed for English language learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers, who want to expand their vocabulary and improve their fluency.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition: Expressing Referral
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Referral Phrases
- Examples of Alternative Phrases
- Usage Rules and Guidelines
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics: Nuances and Context
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition: Expressing Referral
Expressing referral involves communicating that you were directed to someone or something by another person or source. It’s a way of establishing a connection and providing context for your interaction.
The core meaning remains the same: indicating that someone suggested you contact the person you’re addressing. However, the way you phrase it can change the tone, formality, and emphasis of your message.
Referral phrases serve several functions. They provide context, build credibility, and signal respect for the person who made the referral.
In professional settings, it can streamline communication and increase the likelihood of a positive reception. In social settings, it helps establish common ground and build rapport.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure for expressing referral usually involves these key elements:
- Introduction: Start with a polite greeting or introduction.
- Referral Phrase: Use a phrase that indicates you were referred.
- Referrer’s Name: Mention the name of the person who made the referral.
- Optional Context: Briefly explain the reason for the referral.
- Your Purpose: State the reason for your contact.
Here’s a general template:
“Hello [Name], [Referral Phrase] [Referrer’s Name]. [Optional Context]. I am contacting you to [Your Purpose].”
Example: “Hello Mr. Smith, I was given your name by Sarah Jones.
She mentioned you are an expert in marketing. I am contacting you to discuss potential collaboration opportunities.”
Types and Categories of Referral Phrases
There are various ways to express referral, each with its own nuance and level of formality. Understanding these categories can help you choose the most appropriate phrase for different situations.
Formal Referrals
These phrases are suitable for professional settings, such as job applications, business correspondence, or formal introductions. They convey respect and maintain a professional tone.
- “I was referred to you by…”
- “I was given your name by…”
- “I was directed to you by…”
- “I was advised to contact you by…”
- “I am writing to you on the recommendation of…”
Informal Referrals
These phrases are appropriate for casual conversations, personal emails, or introductions among friends. They are more relaxed and conversational.
- “So-and-so suggested I reach out to you.”
- “So-and-so told me to get in touch with you.”
- “So-and-so mentioned you might be able to help me with…”
- “I heard about you from…”
- “So-and-so thought you’d be a good person to talk to.”
Referrals with Emphasis
These phrases emphasize the importance or credibility of the referral. They can be used when you want to highlight the referrer’s expertise or influence.
- “I was strongly recommended to contact you by…”
- “So-and-so highly recommended I speak with you.”
- “So-and-so specifically suggested I get in touch with you.”
- “So-and-so insisted that I reach out to you.”
- “On the advice of So-and-so, I am contacting you…”
Referrals Expressing Gratitude
These phrases express appreciation for the referral. They are particularly useful when you want to acknowledge the referrer’s help and show your gratitude.
- “I’m reaching out to you thanks to So-and-so.”
- “So-and-so was kind enough to suggest I contact you.”
- “I appreciate So-and-so connecting me with you.”
- “So-and-so graciously suggested I get in touch with you.”
- “I’m contacting you at the suggestion of So-and-so, and I’m grateful for the introduction.”
Examples of Alternative Phrases
This section provides a wide range of examples, categorized for clarity, to illustrate the various ways to express referral effectively.
The following table presents examples of formal referral phrases:
| Formal Referral Phrases | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I was referred to you by… | I was referred to you by Dr. Emily Carter regarding the research position. |
| I was given your name by… | I was given your name by Professor David Lee as a potential mentor. |
| I was directed to you by… | I was directed to you by Ms. Jane Smith from the marketing department. |
| I was advised to contact you by… | I was advised to contact you by Mr. Robert Brown concerning the legal matter. |
| I am writing to you on the recommendation of… | I am writing to you on the recommendation of Mrs. Susan Davis, the head of HR. |
| Upon the suggestion of… | Upon the suggestion of Mr. Michael Johnson, I am reaching out to discuss the project. |
| At the suggestion of… | At the suggestion of Dr. Laura Wilson, I am contacting you to inquire about the internship. |
| Following a recommendation from… | Following a recommendation from Mr. Thomas Green, I am writing to express my interest in the role. |
| As per the referral of… | As per the referral of Ms. Patricia White, I am contacting you regarding the grant opportunity. |
| I am contacting you based on a referral from… | I am contacting you based on a referral from Mr. William Clark about the consulting services. |
| My mutual acquaintance, [Name], suggested I contact you. | My mutual acquaintance, John Doe, suggested I contact you regarding your expertise in data analytics. |
| [Name] suggested I reach out to you. | Dr. Anderson suggested I reach out to you concerning your work on renewable energy. |
| I was encouraged to contact you by [Name]. | I was encouraged to contact you by Mrs. Eleanor Vance, who spoke highly of your leadership. |
| [Name] put me in touch with you. | Mr. Harrison put me in touch with you to discuss the possibility of a partnership. |
| I have been in contact with [Name], who suggested I speak with you. | I have been in contact with Ms. Reynolds, who suggested I speak with you about the upcoming conference. |
| [Name] thought you would be a good person to connect with. | Mr. Thompson thought you would be a good person to connect with regarding my interest in your company. |
| I was fortunate to receive your contact details from [Name]. | I was fortunate to receive your contact details from Ms. Katherine Bell, who mentioned your availability for mentoring. |
| [Name] recommended I get in touch with you directly | Mrs. Abernathy recommended I get in touch with you directly about the open finance position. |
| [Name] suggested your name as someone to consult | Mr. Carl suggested your name as someone to consult about digital transformation. |
| I am following up on a recommendation from [Name] | I am following up on a recommendation from Mrs. Smith about the job opening. |
| I was given your details through [Name]’s network | I was given your details through Mrs. Johnson’s network. |
| [Name] kindly shared your contact information | Jane kindly shared your contact information. |
| I am reaching out to you as per [Name]’s advice | I am reaching out to you as per John’s advice. |
| [Name] spoke highly of you and suggested I contact you | Mr. Anderson spoke highly of you and suggested I contact you. |
The following table presents examples of informal referral phrases:
| Informal Referral Phrases | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| [Name] suggested I reach out to you. | Sarah suggested I reach out to you about hiking trails. |
| [Name] told me to get in touch with you. | Mike told me to get in touch with you about the band. |
| [Name] mentioned you might be able to help me with… | Lisa mentioned you might be able to help me with my garden. |
| I heard about you from… | I heard about you from David at the gym. |
| [Name] thought you’d be a good person to talk to. | Emily thought you’d be a good person to talk to about photography. |
| [Name] said you were the person to talk to regarding… | John said you were the person to talk to regarding classic cars. |
| [Name] gave me your contact information. | My cousin gave me your contact information. |
| [Name] thought you could lend me a hand with… | Mary thought you could lend me a hand with my computer issues. |
| [Name] said you know a lot about… | Tom said you know a lot about wine. |
| [Name] thought you’d be interested in… | Susan thought you’d be interested in the art exhibit. |
| [Name] said you’re the go-to person for… | My friend said you’re the go-to person for cooking tips. |
| [Name] thought you might have some insights into… | Alex thought you might have some insights into coding. |
| [Name] told me you’re quite knowledgeable about… | My neighbor told me you’re quite knowledgeable about local history. |
| [Name] let me know you are involved in… | My classmate let me know you are involved in the community garden. |
| [Name] suggested you could provide some guidance on… | My colleague suggested you could provide some guidance on career choices. |
| [Name] said you’re the right person to approach regarding… | My uncle said you’re the right person to approach regarding home repairs. |
| [Name] thought you might be able to offer some advice on… | A former coworker thought you might be able to offer some advice on starting a business. |
| [Name] mentioned you have experience in… | A friend mentioned you have experience in graphic design. |
| [Name] thought you would enjoy hearing about this. | My sister thought you would enjoy hearing about this new cafe. |
| [Name] figured you’d be the best person to ask about… | My brother figured you’d be the best person to ask about bike trails. |
| [Name] said you were super helpful with… | My friend said you were super helpful with moving. |
| [Name] thought you would be a great resource for… | My mentor thought you would be a great resource for networking opportunities. |
| [Name] suggested I pick your brain about… | My classmate suggested I pick your brain about study tips. |
| [Name] pointed me in your direction. | My old boss pointed me in your direction. |
| [Name] said you were really good at… | My roommate said you were really good at cooking. |
The following table presents examples of referral phrases with emphasis:
| Referral Phrases with Emphasis | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I was strongly recommended to contact you by… | I was strongly recommended to contact you by Dr. Lee for your expertise in the field. |
| [Name] highly recommended I speak with you. | Ms. Johnson highly recommended I speak with you regarding the leadership program. |
| [Name] specifically suggested I get in touch with you. | Mr. Brown specifically suggested I get in touch with you about the marketing campaign. |
| [Name] insisted that I reach out to you. | Mrs. Davis insisted that I reach out to you concerning the community project. |
| On the advice of [Name], I am contacting you… | On the advice of Professor Smith, I am contacting you to discuss my research paper. |
| [Name] felt it was essential for me to connect with you. | My advisor felt it was essential for me to connect with you. |
| [Name] assured me that you were the best person to speak with. | My mentor assured me that you were the best person to speak with about this. |
| [Name] emphasized the importance of getting in touch with you. | My former boss emphasized the importance of getting in touch with you, concerning career opportunities. |
| [Name] was adamant that I reach out to you. | My colleague was adamant that I reach out to you about the data analysis role. |
| [Name] went out of their way to ensure I contacted you. | My professor went out of his way to ensure I contacted you. |
| [Name] made a point of telling me to contact you. | My previous manager made a point of telling me to contact you regarding the project. |
| [Name] underscored the value of speaking with you. | My consultant underscored the value of speaking with you about financial planning. |
| [Name] really stressed that I should reach out to you. | My former teacher really stressed that I should reach out to you. |
| [Name] thought it was critical for us to connect. | The head of the department thought it was critical for us to connect regarding collaboration. |
| [Name] was very keen that I get in touch with you. | The company president was very keen that I get in touch with you about the new initiative. |
| [Name] really encouraged me to contact you. | The CEO really encouraged me to contact you. |
| I was urged by [Name] to reach out to you. | I was urged by my academic advisor to reach out to you. |
| [Name] specifically advised me to speak with you. | My lawyer specifically advised me to speak with you about the legal matter. |
| [Name] strongly suggested you were the best person to consult with. | My financial advisor strongly suggested you were the best person to consult with. |
| [Name] was certain you could assist me. | My doctor was certain you could assist me with my medical needs. |
| [Name] was positive that you would be able to help me. | My mentor was positive that you would be able to help me in my career. |
| [Name] was convinced you had the expertise I needed. | My supervisor was convinced you had the expertise I needed. |
| [Name] felt strongly that you were the right person for this. | My friend felt strongly that you were the right person for this opportunity. |
| [Name] was emphatic about me reaching out to you. | My neighbor was emphatic about me reaching out to you. |
| [Name] highlighted the significance of contacting you. | My professor highlighted the significance of contacting you. |
The following table presents examples of referral phrases expressing gratitude:
| Referral Phrases Expressing Gratitude | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I’m reaching out to you thanks to [Name]. | I’m reaching out to you thanks to John, who thought you could help me with my project. |
| [Name] was kind enough to suggest I contact you. | Sarah was kind enough to suggest I contact you regarding the open position at your company. |
| I appreciate [Name] connecting me with you. | I appreciate Emily connecting me with you; I’m looking forward to discussing the volunteer opportunity. |
| [Name] graciously suggested I get in touch with you. | Mike graciously suggested I get in touch with you, and I’m excited to learn more about your work. |
| I’m contacting you at the suggestion of [Name], and I’m grateful for the introduction. | I’m contacting you at the suggestion of Lisa, and I’m grateful for the introduction she provided. |
| Thanks to [Name], I now have the pleasure of contacting you. | Thanks to David, I now have the pleasure of contacting you about the upcoming event. |
| I owe the pleasure of this contact to [Name]. | I owe the pleasure of this contact to Susan who thought you could help me with my dilemma. |
| [Name] kindly pointed me in your direction, for which I am grateful. | Tom kindly pointed me in your direction, for which I am grateful and am happy to get in touch. |
| I’m thankful to [Name] for recommending I reach out to you. | I’m thankful to Mary for recommending I reach out to you about the project. |
| I’m reaching out to you on [Name]’s recommendation, and I’m very appreciative. | I’m reaching out to you on Alex’s recommendation, and I’m very appreciative of the connection. |
| I’m grateful to [Name] for facilitating this contact. | I’m grateful to Kim for facilitating this contact. |
| [Name] was thoughtful enough to connect us. | John was thoughtful enough to connect us. |
| I’m reaching out based on a thoughtful referral from [Name]. | I’m reaching out based on a thoughtful referral from Sarah. |
| [Name] was generous in connecting me with you. | Emily was generous in connecting me with you. |
| I’m fortunate that [Name] suggested I contact you. | Mike suggested I contact you. |
| I have [Name] to thank for this connection. | Lisa to thank for this connection. |
| I’m reaching out thanks to [Name]’s kindness. | David’s kindness. |
| I’m reaching out as [Name] was kind enough to put us in touch. | I’m reaching out as Susan was kind enough to put us in touch. |
| Thanks to [Name], I’m able to reach out to you today. | Thanks to Tom, I’m able to reach out to you today. |
| I’m thankful to [Name] for making the introduction. | I’m thankful to Mary for making the introduction. |
| I’m connecting with you today through [Name]’s recommendation. | I’m connecting with you today through Alex’s recommendation. |
| I’m grateful for [Name]’s suggestion that I contact you. | I’m grateful for Kim’s suggestion that I contact you. |
| [Name] was kind to share your contact details with me. | John was kind to share your contact details with me. |
| I’m reaching out to you through [Name]’s generosity. | I’m reaching out to you through Sarah’s generosity. |
| I’m contacting you as a result of [Name]’s recommendation. | I’m contacting you as a result of Emily’s recommendation. |
Usage Rules and Guidelines
When using these phrases, consider the following rules and guidelines:
- Context Matters: Choose a phrase that is appropriate for the situation. Formal phrases are best for professional settings, while informal phrases are suitable for casual conversations.
- Be Clear: Ensure that the person you are referring to is easily identifiable. Use their full name if necessary.
- Be Respectful: Show respect for both the person who made the referral and the person you are contacting.
- Be Concise: Keep your explanation brief and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details.
- Proofread: Always proofread your message for grammar and spelling errors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when expressing referral:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| “I was referred by.” | “I was referred to you by…” | The preposition “to you” is necessary to indicate who you were referred to. |
| “John told me contacting you.” | “John told me to contact you.” | Use the infinitive form “to contact” after “told me.” |
| “Sarah suggest I call you.” | “Sarah suggested I call you.” | The verb “suggest” requires the subjunctive mood. |
| “I am writing you on recommendation of…” | “I am writing to you on the recommendation of…” | The preposition “to” is needed to indicate who you are writing to, and “the” is needed before recommendation. |
| “Mike give me your contact.” | “Mike gave me your contact information.” | “Give” requires the past tense, and “contact information” is more formal. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate phrase.
Exercise 1: Formal Referrals
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I am contacting you _______ Mr. Smith, who suggested I reach out to you. | 1. based on a referral from |
| 2. _______ Dr. Jones, I am writing to inquire about the research opportunity. | 2. On the recommendation of |
| 3. I _______ Ms. Davis, who recommended your services. | 3. was referred to you by |
| 4. _______ Mr. Brown’s suggestion, I am following up on the job posting. | 4. At |
| 5. _______ Mrs. Wilson, I am reaching out regarding the partnership proposal. | 5. Upon the suggestion of |
| 6. I _______ Mr. Clark, who spoke highly of your expertise. | 6. was given your name by |
| 7. _______ Mrs. White, I am interested in discussing the grant application. | 7. Following a recommendation from |
| 8. I _______ Mr. Green, who mentioned your availability for consulting. | 8. was directed to you by |
| 9. _______ Ms. Vance, I am writing to express my interest in the leadership position. | 9. As per the referral of |
| 10. I _______ Mr. Harrison, who recommended I contact you directly. | 10. was advised to contact you by |
Exercise 2: Informal Referrals
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. _______ suggested I get in touch with you about the hiking trails. | 1. Sarah |
| 2. _______ told me to reach out to you about the band. | 2. Mike |
| 3. _______ mentioned you might be able to help me with my garden. | 3. Lisa |
| 4. I _______ David at the gym. | 4. heard about you from |
| 5. _______ thought you’d be a good person to talk to about photography. | 5. Emily |
| 6. _______ said you were the person to talk to regarding classic cars. | 6. John |
| 7. _______ gave me your contact information. | 7. My cousin |
| 8. _______ thought you could lend me a hand with my computer issues. | 8. Mary |
| 9. _______ said you know a lot about wine. | 9. Tom |
| 10. _______ thought you’d be interested in the art exhibit. | 10. Susan |
Exercise 3: Referral Phrases with Emphasis
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I _______ to contact you by Dr. Lee for your expertise in the field. | 1. was strongly recommended |
| 2. _______ I speak with you regarding the leadership program. | 2. Ms. Johnson highly recommended |
| 3. _______ I get in touch with you about the marketing campaign. | 3. Mr. Brown specifically suggested |
| 4. _______ I reach out to you concerning the community project. | 4. Mrs. Davis insisted that |
| 5. _______ Professor Smith, I am contacting you to discuss my research paper. | 5. On the advice of |
| 6. _______ for me to connect with you. | 6. My advisor felt it was essential |
| 7. _______ that you were the best person to speak with. | 7. My mentor assured me |
| 8. _______ of getting in touch with you, concerning career opportunities. | 8. My former boss emphasized the importance |
| 9. _______ that I reach out to you about the data analysis role. | 9. My colleague was adamant |
| 10. _______ to ensure I contacted you. | 10. My professor went out of his way |
Advanced Topics: Nuances and Context
For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of these phrases and how they fit into different contexts is crucial. Consider the following:
- Cultural Differences: Different cultures may have different expectations regarding formality and directness. Research cultural norms before using these phrases.
- Power Dynamics: Be aware of the power dynamics between you, the referrer, and the person you are contacting. Adjust your tone accordingly.
- Building Relationships: Use these phrases as an opportunity to build relationships. Express gratitude and show genuine interest in the other person’s work.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it always necessary to mention the referral source?
No, it’s not always necessary, but it’s often beneficial. Mentioning the referral source can help establish credibility and build rapport. However, if the referral is from someone who is not well-regarded, it might be best to omit the name.
- What if I don’t remember the exact name of the person who referred me?
Try to recall as much information as possible about the person, such as their job title, company, or relationship to you. You can say something like, “I was referred to you by someone in the marketing department at XYZ Corp, though I can’t recall their exact name.”
- How do I handle a referral from someone I’m not particularly close to?
You can still use a formal referral phrase, such as “I was given your name by…” This maintains a professional tone without implying a close relationship.
- What if I was referred by multiple people?
You can mention all of them, or choose the most relevant or influential person to highlight. For example, “I was referred to you by both John Smith and Sarah Jones, who both suggested I reach out to you regarding this opportunity.”
- Is it appropriate to ask someone for a referral?
Yes, it is appropriate in many situations, especially in professional contexts. However, make sure you have a good reason for the referral and that you are clear about what you are asking for.
- How do I thank someone for a referral?
Express your gratitude sincerely. You can send a thank-you note, email, or even a small gift. Be specific about how the referral helped you.
- What if the person I contact doesn’t respond to my message?
Follow up politely after a week or two. If you still don’t receive a response, it’s best to move on. They may be busy or simply not interested.
- Should I mention the referral in the subject line of an email?
Yes, mentioning the referral in the subject line can increase the likelihood that your email will be opened. For example, “Referral from [Name]: Inquiry about [Topic].”
Conclusion
Mastering alternative ways to say “I was referred to you by…” is a valuable skill that can enhance your communication in various contexts. By understanding the different types of referral phrases, usage rules, and common mistakes, you can confidently express your connections with nuance and professionalism.
Remember to consider the context, be respectful, and always proofread your messages. With practice, you’ll be able to seamlessly integrate these phrases into your everyday conversations and written communication, making you a more effective and persuasive communicator.
Keep practicing, pay attention to how native speakers use these phrases, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The more you use them, the more natural they will become.
Good luck!