Imagine you’re reaching out to a hiring manager, a potential client, or a professor for the first time. You don’t want to sound cold or random. You want instant credibility. So you write: “I was referred to you by Sarah Khan.”

In one sentence, you establish context, trust, and relevance.

“I Was Referred To You By” is more than a polite opener. It signals connection, legitimacy, and social proof. In modern communication—where inboxes are crowded and attention is short—this phrase can significantly increase response rates. But tone matters. Alternatives can sound warmer, more confident, or more collaborative depending on your goal.

Let’s break it down clearly and practically.

What Does “I Was Referred To You By” Mean?

“I Was Referred To You By” means that another person recommended or directed you to contact someone. It indicates that a mutual connection suggested reaching out and implies trust, credibility, or prior approval from that shared contact.

In plain English: Someone you both know suggested you get in touch.

Core Intention

• To establish credibility
  
• To create familiarity
  
• To reduce cold-contact friction
  
• To increase the likelihood of a positive response
  

Common Situations

• Job applications
  
• Freelance outreach
  
• Networking emails
  
• Academic introductions
  
• Client inquiries
  

Origin & History of “I Was Referred To You By”

The phrase stems from the verb refer, which entered English from Latin referre, meaning “to carry back” or “to relate.” By the 17th century, refer developed professional and medical uses, such as referring patients or cases to specialists.

In business contexts, referrals became central to trust-based commerce in the 19th and 20th centuries. Long before LinkedIn or email, reputation traveled through spoken introductions and written letters of recommendation.

Today, the phrase reflects the same principle: trust transferred through social connection. In digital culture—where credibility is harder to verify—referrals carry even more weight.

Synonyms & Alternatives by Tone

Professional & Neutral Alternatives

• I was introduced to you by
  
• I was recommended to contact you by
  
• I was directed to you by
  
• I was advised to reach out by
  
• I was connected with you through
  
• Your name was shared with me by
  

Polite & Supportive Alternatives

• [Name] suggested I get in touch
  
• [Name] kindly referred me to you
  
• I’m reaching out at the recommendation of
  
• I was encouraged to contact you by
  
• I’m contacting you on the advice of
  

Encouraging & Reassuring

• We have a mutual connection in
  
• I understand you’ve worked with
  
• I was told you’re the right person to speak with
  
• I heard great things about you from
  

Casual, Playful & Idiomatic Alternatives

• [Name] pointed me your way
  
• I got your contact from
  
• [Name] said you’d be the best person to ask
  
• I was sent your way
  
• I’m following up on a tip from
  

These alternatives allow you to match tone with context, which improves clarity and professionalism.

When Should You Use “I Was Referred To You By”?

Professional Settings

In job applications, consulting outreach, vendor introductions, or academic emails, this phrase immediately establishes credibility. It’s especially effective when the referrer is respected or known to the recipient.

Casual Conversations

In less formal networking (LinkedIn DMs, community groups), it can soften an introduction and avoid sounding intrusive.

Writing, Presentations & Digital Communication

It works well in:

• Email openers
  
• LinkedIn messages
  
• Slack introductions
  
• Client onboarding messages
  

When It’s Especially Effective

• When trust is critical
  
• When you’re requesting time or resources
  
• When competition is high
  
• When the mutual contact has strong credibility
  

When Should You Avoid “I Was Referred To You By”?

Overly Formal Situations

In legal or official academic documents, explicit referral language may require documentation rather than casual phrasing.

Sensitive Contexts

If the referrer didn’t explicitly grant permission, naming them could create discomfort.

When Nuance May Be Lost

In cultures where hierarchy matters strongly, casual referral phrasing may appear presumptive.

Is “I Was Referred To You By” Professional, Polite, or Casual?

Formality Level: Professional-neutral
Emotional Subtext: Respectful, credibility-seeking
Audience Perception: Competent and well-connected

It is generally seen as professional and appropriate. However, it leans slightly formal compared to modern conversational openers like “Sarah suggested I reach out.”

Used well, it signals confidence. Used poorly or without context, it can feel transactional.

Pros and Cons of Using “I Was Referred To You By”

Advantages

• Clarity: Immediately explains why you’re contacting them
  
• Efficiency: Saves time and reduces confusion
  
• Accessibility: Easy to understand for ESL learners
  

Potential Drawbacks

• Oversimplification: May sound formulaic
  
• Tone mismatch: Can feel stiff in informal settings
  
• Repetition: Overused in networking emails
  

Balanced language builds credibility. Overuse weakens impact.

Real-Life Examples of “I Was Referred To You By” by Context

Email:
“I was referred to you by Ahmed Raza regarding the UX consultant role. He thought my background in fintech might align with your current project.”

Meeting:
“I was referred to you by Dr. Malik. She mentioned you’re leading the curriculum redesign.”

Presentation:
“I was referred to you by the operations team to discuss process optimization.”

Conversation:
“Hey, I was referred to you by Sana. She said you’re the best person to talk to about this.”

Social Media (LinkedIn DM):
“I was referred to you by James Carter—he spoke highly of your work in AI compliance.”

“I Was Referred To You By” vs Similar Expressions (Key Differences)

Phrase	Meaning Difference	Tone Difference	Best Use Scenario
I was introduced to you by	Suggests a more formal or direct introduction	Slightly more formal	Conferences, official meetings
Your name was shared with me by	Less direct; softer approach	Polite, indirect	Cold outreach
I was recommended to contact you by	Emphasizes endorsement	Strong professional tone	Job applications
We have a mutual connection in	Focuses on shared network	Neutral-friendly	LinkedIn networking
I was directed to you by	Suggests authority or structure	More formal	Corporate environments

Common Mistakes & Misuse of “I Was Referred To You By”

• Naming someone without permission
  
• Using it when no real referral exists
  
• Overusing in every message
  
• Failing to explain context after the referral
  
• Cultural misunderstanding of implied authority
  

Always follow with purpose. A referral without clarity feels incomplete.

Psychological Reason People Prefer “I Was Referred To You By”

Cognitive Load Reduction

It answers the silent question: “Why are you contacting me?”

Trust & Authority Signals

Social proof increases response likelihood.

Attention Economy

Inbox overload makes context valuable.

Modern Communication Habits

People respond faster when connections are clear.

US vs UK Usage of “I Was Referred To You By”

In both the US and UK, the phrase is common in professional communication. In the US, it may sound slightly more transactional. In the UK, it may be perceived as more formal.

British English may favor softer alternatives like “Your name was passed on to me.”

“I Was Referred To You By” in Digital & Modern Communication

• Email: Common and effective
  
• Slack/WhatsApp: Shorter alternatives preferred
  
• Social Media: Works best when personalized
  
• AI-generated summaries: Often used as default phrasing
  

Modern writing trends favor warmth over rigidity, so small adjustments improve tone.

Linguistic & Communication Insight

Emotional Weight & Subtext

The phrase carries authority borrowing. It subtly signals: “I’m not random—I’m endorsed.”

Direct vs Indirect Phrasing

Direct phrasing shows confidence. Softer alternatives reduce perceived pressure.

Professional Communication Perspective

In corporate environments, it establishes legitimacy. In startups, it may feel slightly stiff.

Pragmatic Reasons for Alternatives

Professionals choose alternatives to:

• Reduce defensiveness
  
• Signal collaboration
  
• Soften hierarchy
  

Social Signaling

Word choice signals network strength and credibility. It can elevate perceived status.

Tone & Context Guidance

Use it when credibility matters. Adjust tone when warmth matters more.

Meaning, Usage & Examples for Each Alternative

1. I was introduced to you by

Meaning: A formal introduction was made.
Why This Phrase Works: Signals intentional connection.
Real-World Usage Insight: Common in conferences and academia.
Best Use: Professional settings.
Avoid When: Casual chats.
Tone: Formal-neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Common in both.
Example (Email): “I was introduced to you by Professor Ahmed at last week’s seminar.”

2. I was recommended to contact you by

Meaning: Someone endorsed you as the right contact.
Why This Phrase Works: Strong credibility signal.
Real-World Usage Insight: Powerful in hiring contexts.
Best Use: Job inquiries.
Avoid When: Informal networking.
Tone: Professional.
US vs UK Usage: Widely used.
Example (Email): “I was recommended to contact you by Fatima Ali regarding the data analyst role.”

3. Your name was shared with me by

Meaning: Someone provided your contact.
Why This Phrase Works: Softer, less assertive.
Real-World Usage Insight: Good for cold outreach.
Best Use: Networking.
Avoid When: Authority is needed.
Tone: Polite.
US vs UK Usage: Slightly more common in UK.
Example (Email): “Your name was shared with me by Daniel during our startup roundtable.”

4. We have a mutual connection in

Meaning: You share a contact.
Why This Phrase Works: Builds immediate familiarity.
Real-World Usage Insight: Effective on LinkedIn.
Best Use: Digital networking.
Avoid When: No real connection exists.
Tone: Friendly-neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Common in US.
Example (Email): “We have a mutual connection in Sara Malik from TechLabs.”

5. I was directed to you by

Meaning: Someone guided you to contact them.
Why This Phrase Works: Suggests authority.
Real-World Usage Insight: Used in corporate hierarchies.
Best Use: Structured environments.
Avoid When: Informal teams.
Tone: Formal.
US vs UK Usage: Equal usage.
Example (Email): “I was directed to you by the HR department.”

6. I was advised to reach out by

Meaning: Someone suggested

repeat the response dont give the buller number to alternatives

“I Was Referred To You By”: Meaning, 20 Synonyms With Examples

You’re about to email a hiring manager, a potential client, or a professor for the first time. You don’t want your message to feel random or intrusive. You want instant context. So you begin with: “I was referred to you by Ayesha Khan.”

In one line, you establish credibility, reduce uncertainty, and create a sense of connection.

“I Was Referred To You By” is more than a formal introduction. It signals that someone trusted you enough to pass along their contact. In today’s fast, digital communication culture, where inboxes are crowded and attention is limited, that small sentence can significantly increase your chances of getting a reply. But tone matters. Alternatives can feel warmer, softer, more confident, or more collaborative depending on your goal.

Let’s explore it clearly and practically.

What Does “I Was Referred To You By” Mean?

“I Was Referred To You By” means that another person recommended or directed you to contact someone. It indicates that a mutual connection suggested reaching out and implies credibility or prior approval from that shared contact.

In simple terms: someone you both know suggested that you get in touch.

The core idea behind the phrase is trust transfer. It explains why you are initiating contact and reduces the feeling of a cold approach. It is commonly used in job applications, professional networking, freelance outreach, academic communication, and business introductions.

Origin & History of “I Was Referred To You By”

The verb refer comes from Latin referre, meaning “to bring back” or “to relate.” Over time, English adopted it for formal redirection—such as referring a case, patient, or client to someone else.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, referrals became central in professional and medical contexts. A doctor referred patients to specialists. Businesses referred clients to trusted partners. Reputation moved through trusted channels long before email or social media existed.

In modern usage, the phrase reflects the same principle: credibility travels through networks. In digital communication—where trust is harder to verify—referral language carries even more weight.

Synonyms & Alternatives by Tone

Professional & Neutral Alternatives

I was introduced to you by
I was recommended to contact you by
I was directed to you by
I was advised to reach out by
I was connected with you through
Your name was shared with me by

Polite & Supportive Alternatives

[Name] suggested I get in touch
[Name] kindly referred me to you
I’m reaching out at the recommendation of
I was encouraged to contact you by
I’m contacting you on the advice of

Encouraging & Reassuring Alternatives

We have a mutual connection in
I understand you’ve worked with
I was told you’re the right person to speak with
I heard great things about you from

Casual, Playful & Idiomatic Alternatives

[Name] pointed me your way
I got your contact from
[Name] said you’d be the best person to ask
I was sent your way
I’m following up on a tip from

Choosing the right variation allows you to match tone with audience and context, which improves clarity and professionalism.

When Should You Use “I Was Referred To You By”?

Professional Settings

In job applications, consulting proposals, vendor introductions, or academic emails, this phrase immediately establishes legitimacy. It works particularly well when the referrer is respected or known to the recipient.

Casual Conversations

In LinkedIn messages or community discussions, it can soften an introduction and avoid sounding abrupt.

Writing, Presentations & Digital Communication

It works effectively in email openers, LinkedIn DMs, Slack introductions, and client onboarding messages.

When It’s Especially Effective

When trust is essential
When you are requesting time or assistance
When competition is high
When the mutual contact has credibility

When Should You Avoid “I Was Referred To You By”?

In highly formal legal or academic documents where official documentation is required.

In sensitive situations where the referrer did not give permission to share their name.

In very informal team chats where the phrasing may feel stiff or overly formal.

Is “I Was Referred To You By” Professional, Polite, or Casual?

The phrase is professional-neutral in tone. It is polite and respectful, but slightly formal. Emotionally, it signals credibility and preparedness rather than warmth.

In structured corporate environments, it fits naturally. In startups or creative industries, a softer alternative may feel more modern.

Audience perception usually interprets it as competent and well-connected, especially when followed by clear purpose.

Pros and Cons of Using “I Was Referred To You By”

Advantages

Clarity: It immediately explains why you’re reaching out.
Efficiency: It saves the reader time and reduces confusion.
Accessibility: It is easy to understand for ESL learners.

Potential Drawbacks

Oversimplification: It can feel formulaic if overused.
Tone mismatch: It may sound rigid in informal settings.
Repetition: Many outreach emails begin this way, reducing uniqueness.

Balanced usage strengthens credibility. Overuse reduces impact.

Real-Life Examples of “I Was Referred To You By” by Context

Email:
“I was referred to you by Imran Sheikh regarding the UX designer opening. He mentioned my background in fintech could be relevant to your current project.”

Meeting:
“I was referred to you by Dr. Hassan. She suggested we speak about the curriculum update.”

Presentation:
“I was referred to you by the operations team to discuss workflow improvements.”

Conversation:
“I was referred to you by Amina. She said you’re the right person to talk to about this.”

Social Media (LinkedIn DM):
“I was referred to you by James Carter—he spoke highly of your work in compliance strategy.”

“I Was Referred To You By” vs Similar Expressions (Key Differences)

Phrase	Meaning Difference	Tone Difference	Best Use Scenario
I was introduced to you by	Suggests a formal introduction	More formal	Conferences, academic events
Your name was shared with me by	Softer and less direct	Polite, indirect	Cold outreach emails
I was recommended to contact you by	Emphasizes endorsement	Strong professional tone	Job applications
We have a mutual connection in	Highlights shared network	Friendly-neutral	LinkedIn networking
I was directed to you by	Suggests authority or instruction	Formal	Corporate hierarchies

Common Mistakes & Misuse of “I Was Referred To You By”

Using the phrase without actual referral.
Naming someone without their permission.
Overusing it in every message.
Failing to explain your purpose after mentioning the referral.
Misjudging cultural expectations around hierarchy or authority.

A referral line should always be followed by context and intention.

Psychological Reason People Prefer “I Was Referred To You By”

Cognitive load reduction: It answers the unspoken question, “Why are you contacting me?”

Trust and authority signals: Social proof increases the likelihood of engagement.

Attention economy: Clear context earns faster responses.

Modern communication habits: People respond more positively when connections are visible.

US vs UK Usage of “I Was Referred To You By”

In both American and British English, the phrase is common in professional communication.

In the US, it may feel slightly transactional but efficient. In the UK, it can feel more formal. British professionals may sometimes prefer softer phrasing such as “Your name was passed on to me.”

Overall usage patterns are similar, but tone sensitivity can vary slightly by industry.

“I Was Referred To You By” in Digital & Modern Communication

Email remains the most common space for this phrase.

In Slack or WhatsApp, shorter alternatives often feel more natural.

On social media platforms like LinkedIn, it works best when personalized and concise.

AI-generated summaries frequently default to this phrasing, which makes originality and tone adjustment more important.

Linguistic & Communication Insight

Emotional Weight & Subtext

The phrase carries borrowed credibility. It subtly communicates that you are not a random contact but someone endorsed by a trusted source.

Direct vs Indirect Phrasing

This phrasing is direct and confident. Softer alternatives reduce perceived pressure and may feel more collaborative.

Professional Communication Perspective

In corporate settings, it establishes legitimacy. In creative or startup environments, it may feel slightly rigid unless balanced with warmth.

Pragmatic Reasons for Alternatives

Professionals may choose softer phrasing to reduce defensiveness, signal collaboration, or avoid appearing transactional.

Social Signaling

Word choice influences perception of network strength, professionalism, and authority. Referral language increases perceived legitimacy.

Tone & Context Guidance

Use it when credibility matters most. Adjust wording when relationship-building matters more than authority.

Meaning, Usage & Examples for Each Alternative

I was introduced to you by

Meaning: A formal introduction was made through a third party.
Why This Phrase Works: Signals intentional connection rather than random outreach.
Real-World Usage Insight: Common in conferences and academic settings.
Best Use: Professional or academic environments.
Avoid When: Messaging in casual team chats.
Tone: Formal-neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Equally common in both regions.
Example (Email): “I was introduced to you by Professor Malik at the innovation summit last week.”

I was recommended to contact you by

Meaning: Someone endorsed you as the right person to speak with.
Why This Phrase Works: Strong credibility and authority signal.
Real-World Usage Insight: Frequently used in hiring and consulting.
Best Use: Job applications or formal proposals.
Avoid When: Informal peer networking.
Tone: Professional and confident.
US vs UK Usage: Widely accepted in both.
Example (Email): “I was recommended to contact you by Sara Ahmed regarding the product manager role.”

Your name was shared with me by

Meaning: Someone passed along your contact details.
Why This Phrase Works: Softer and less assertive than direct referral language.
Real-World Usage Insight: Good for cold outreach where tone matters.
Best Use: Networking emails.
Avoid When: You need strong authority backing.
Tone: Polite and neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Slightly more common in the UK.
Example (Email): “Your name was shared with me by Daniel during our fintech roundtable discussion.”

We have a mutual connection in

Meaning: You share a contact within your professional network.
Why This Phrase Works: Builds immediate familiarity.
Real-World Usage Insight: Effective on LinkedIn.
Best Use: Digital networking platforms.
Avoid When: There is no real shared connection.
Tone: Friendly-neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Very common in US networking culture.
Example (Email): “We have a mutual connection in Hira Khan from GrowthTech.”

I was directed to you by

Meaning: Someone formally guided you to contact this person.
Why This Phrase Works: Suggests structure and authority.
Real-World Usage Insight: Used in corporate hierarchies.
Best Use: Structured organizations.
Avoid When: Informal startup teams.
Tone: Formal.
US vs UK Usage: Similar usage in both regions.
Example (Email): “I was directed to you by the HR department regarding onboarding procedures.”

I was advised to reach out by

Meaning: Someone suggested contacting this person.
Why This Phrase Works: Slightly softer than “directed.”
Real-World Usage Insight: Works well in mentorship contexts.
Best Use: Professional guidance scenarios.
Avoid When: Authority endorsement is required.
Tone: Polite and measured.
US vs UK Usage: Common in both.
Example (Email): “I was advised to reach out by my supervisor to discuss collaboration opportunities.”

I was connected with you through

Meaning: A shared contact facilitated connection.
Why This Phrase Works: Implies collaboration rather than hierarchy.
Real-World Usage Insight: Popular in freelance networks.
Best Use: Creative or collaborative industries.
Avoid When: You need formal structure.
Tone: Neutral-modern.
US vs UK Usage: Slightly more common in US digital spaces.
Example (Email): “I was connected with you through Ali Raza after discussing content strategy.”

[Name] suggested I get in touch

Meaning: A mutual contact recommended communication.
Why This Phrase Works: Conversational and warm.
Real-World Usage Insight: Good for LinkedIn messages.
Best Use: Semi-formal outreach.
Avoid When: Writing official documentation.
Tone: Friendly-professional.
US vs UK Usage: Natural in both regions.
Example (Email): “Ayesha suggested I get in touch regarding your open research assistant position.”

I’m reaching out at the recommendation of

Meaning: Contact initiated due to endorsement.
Why This Phrase Works: Professional yet approachable.
Real-World Usage Insight: Effective in consulting inquiries.
Best Use: Business development emails.
Avoid When: Casual team chats.
Tone: Professional.
US vs UK Usage: Standard in both.
Example (Email): “I’m reaching out at the recommendation of Omar Farooq about your sustainability initiative.”

I was encouraged to contact you by

Meaning: A trusted contact supported this outreach.
Why This Phrase Works: Signals positivity and openness.
Real-World Usage Insight: Common in mentorship contexts.
Best Use: Academic or guidance settings.
Avoid When: High-authority corporate requests.
Tone: Supportive-professional.
US vs UK Usage: Similar in both regions.
Example (Email): “I was encouraged to contact you by my thesis advisor to discuss your recent publication.”

I’m contacting you on the advice of

Meaning: Someone recommended this step.
Why This Phrase Works: Slightly formal and respectful.
Real-World Usage Insight: Works in structured industries.
Best Use: Finance, legal, corporate sectors.
Avoid When: Casual creative outreach.
Tone: Formal.
US vs UK Usage: Slightly more common in UK formal writing.
Example (Email): “I’m contacting you on the advice of my manager regarding the compliance review.”

I heard great things about you from

Meaning: Someone spoke positively about the recipient.
Why This Phrase Works: Builds warmth and rapport.
Real-World Usage Insight: Useful in networking.
Best Use: Relationship-focused communication.
Avoid When: Highly formal requests.
Tone: Friendly and warm.
US vs UK Usage: Common in US networking culture.
Example (Email): “I heard great things about you from Samir at last week’s industry meetup.”

[Name] pointed me your way

Meaning: A casual referral.
Why This Phrase Works: Conversational and relaxed.
Real-World Usage Insight: Startup environments.
Best Use: Informal teams.
Avoid When: Formal corporate settings.
Tone: Casual.
US vs UK Usage: Slightly more common in US informal speech.
Example (Email): “Ali pointed me your way for insights on scaling SaaS platforms.”

I was sent your way

Meaning: Someone directed you casually.
Why This Phrase Works: Friendly and approachable.
Real-World Usage Insight: Creative collaborations.
Best Use: Peer-level outreach.
Avoid When: Senior executives.
Tone: Casual-friendly.
US vs UK Usage: Common in US conversational English.
Example (Email): “I was sent your way by Nadia to explore partnership ideas.”

I’m following up on a tip from

Meaning: Acting on informal advice.
Why This Phrase Works: Modern and conversational.
Real-World Usage Insight: Popular in digital industries.
Best Use: Informal networking.
Avoid When: Legal or formal contexts.
Tone: Light and casual.
US vs UK Usage: More common in US.
Example (Email): “I’m following up on a tip from Hassan about your upcoming product launch.”

Comparison Table of 10 Best Alternatives

Below is a concise comparison of ten strong alternatives. Each varies slightly in tone, authority level, and context suitability.

Phrase	Meaning	Best Use	Worst Use	Tone	US vs UK Usage
I was introduced to you by	Formal third-party introduction	Academic, conferences	Casual chats	Formal-neutral	Equal usage
I was recommended to contact you by	Strong endorsement	Job applications	Informal networking	Professional	Equal usage
Your name was shared with me by	Contact passed along	Cold outreach	Authority-heavy contexts	Polite	Slight UK preference
We have a mutual connection in	Shared network	LinkedIn outreach	No real connection	Friendly-neutral	US common
I was directed to you by	Formal instruction	Corporate hierarchies	Creative startups	Formal	Equal usage
I was advised to reach out by	Suggested contact	Mentorship	Executive requests	Polite-professional	Equal usage
I’m reaching out at the recommendation of	Endorsed outreach	Consulting	Casual texting	Professional	Equal usage
I was encouraged to contact you by	Supportive referral	Academic settings	Legal contexts	Supportive	Equal usage
I heard great things about you from	Positive reputation	Networking	Formal compliance	Warm	US common
[Name] suggested I get in touch	Conversational referral	Semi-formal emails	Official documents	Friendly-professional	Equal usage

Final Conclusion

“I Was Referred To You By” remains one of the most effective credibility-building phrases in professional communication. It works because it answers an unspoken question: Why are you contacting me? By referencing a shared connection, you reduce friction, establish context, and signal legitimacy within seconds.

However, the phrase is not universally perfect. Tone, industry, and cultural expectations matter. In structured corporate or academic environments, it sounds professional and appropriate. In creative or informal spaces, a warmer alternative may feel more natural. The key is intentional language choice.

Strong communicators understand that referrals are not just about naming someone—they are about transferring trust. When followed by a clear purpose and respectful tone, this phrase increases response rates and builds stronger first impressions. Used thoughtfully, it becomes a strategic communication tool rather than a routine opener.

FAQs

Is “I Was Referred To You By” grammatically correct?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The sentence uses the passive voice to emphasize the referral rather than the referrer. This structure is standard in professional English and widely accepted in email, academic, and business communication.

Is the phrase too formal for modern emails?

Not necessarily. It sounds professional-neutral. In corporate or academic settings, it fits naturally. In startups or informal industries, slightly warmer alternatives like “Sarah suggested I get in touch” may feel more conversational.

Should I always mention the referrer’s full name?

Yes, when possible. Including the full name adds clarity and credibility. However, ensure the person has given permission to share their name, especially in sensitive or confidential contexts.

Does using this phrase increase response rates?

Often, yes. Referral language builds trust and reduces uncertainty. When recipients recognize the shared connection, they are more likely to respond positively and quickly.

Can I use this phrase on LinkedIn?

Yes. It works well in LinkedIn messages, especially when personalized. Keep the message concise and follow it with a clear reason for reaching out.

Is passive voice a problem in this phrase?

No. While active voice is often preferred, passive voice here shifts focus to the connection, which is the most important part of the message. In this case, it serves a practical purpose.

What should I say after mentioning a referral?

Immediately state your purpose. Explain why you’re contacting them and what you’re requesting. A referral without context feels incomplete and may reduce clarity.

Is this phrase common in both US and UK English?

Yes. It is widely used in both regions. In the UK, slightly softer alternatives like “Your name was passed on to me” may also be common.

Can I use it in academic communication?

Absolutely. It is appropriate when a professor, advisor, or colleague recommends contacting someone. Academic environments value proper introductions and contextual clarity.

What if I don’t have a real referral?

Avoid using the phrase unless someone genuinely referred you. Instead, use alternatives like “I came across your work on…” or “I’m reaching out regarding…” to maintain honesty and professionalism.