Timing is Key: Planning Your Request
Requesting a letter of recommendation requires thoughtful planning. Start by identifying potential recommenders who know you well and can speak positively about your skills and qualifications. Crucially, give them ample notice – ideally at least four weeks – to write a detailed and compelling letter. Check their preferred method of contact. Consider their workload and commitments. Don’t wait until the last minute, as this can put undue pressure on them and result in a less effective recommendation. Furthermore, be prepared to provide them with all the necessary information, such as deadlines, the purpose of the letter, and any specific requirements.
Providing Context and Information
To help your recommender write a strong letter, provide them with relevant information about your background and the opportunity you’re pursuing. This includes your resume or CV, a personal statement (if applicable), and details about the program or job you’re applying for. Highlight specific experiences or accomplishments that you would like them to emphasize in their letter. The more information they have, the better equipped they will be to write a personalized and impactful recommendation. Share your reasoning for choosing them as a recommender. Tell them specifically what qualities or experiences you value about their mentorship or instruction.
Following Up and Expressing Gratitude
After making your request, politely follow up with your recommender a week or so before the deadline to ensure they have everything they need. A simple email reaffirming the deadline and offering any further assistance is appropriate. Regardless of whether you receive the desired outcome, always express your sincere gratitude for their time and effort. A thank-you note or email demonstrates professionalism and strengthens your relationship with your recommender. Keeping them updated on the outcome of your application is also a considerate gesture.
Understanding Different Recommendation Types
Letters of recommendation can serve various purposes, including academic applications, job applications, and scholarship applications. Tailor your request to the specific context and provide your recommender with relevant materials. For instance, if you’re applying to graduate school, provide them with information about your research interests and academic goals. If you’re applying for a job, highlight the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Understanding the nuances of different recommendation types will ensure that your recommender can write a letter that effectively showcases your suitability for the opportunity.
Sample Recommendation Request Letters
Sample Letter 1: Academic Application (Professor)
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class and believe your insights into my [Specific Skill/Area] would be valuable to the admissions committee.
I have attached my resume, transcript, and a draft of my personal statement for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me. I am happy to provide any further information you may need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 2: Job Application (Supervisor)
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The deadline is [Date]. During my time working under your supervision at [Company Name], I developed strong skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. I believe your insights into my work ethic and abilities would be highly beneficial to my application.
I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to support my application. I am available to discuss this further at your convenience.
Thank you for your guidance and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 3: Scholarship Application (Mentor)
Dear [Mentor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well.
I am applying for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship, and I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf. The deadline for submission is [Date]. Your mentorship has been invaluable to me, particularly in [Specific Area].
I have attached my application materials, including my essay and resume. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter supporting my application. I am happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 4: Requesting from a Former Teacher
Dear Mr./Ms. [Teacher’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], a former student from your [Course Name] class in [Year]. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for [Briefly state the purpose, e.g., a summer research program at [Institution]]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
I particularly enjoyed your class because [Mention a specific reason, e.g., of the engaging discussions, the challenging assignments, etc.]. I believe your observations about my [Mention specific skills or qualities demonstrated in their class, e.g., analytical abilities, writing skills, enthusiasm for learning] would be very helpful.
I’ve attached my resume and a description of the [Program/Opportunity] for your review. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me. I understand you’re busy, and I appreciate you considering my request.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 5: Requesting from a Volunteer Coordinator
Dear [Coordinator’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I volunteered with [Organization Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I’m writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me in support of my application for [Job/Program] at [Company/Institution]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
During my time volunteering, I [Briefly describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, e.g., assisted with event planning, managed social media, provided direct support to clients]. I believe my experiences at [Organization Name] greatly improved my [Mention skills gained, e.g., organizational skills, communication skills, teamwork abilities].
I’ve attached my resume and a description of the [Job/Program] for your reference. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter on my behalf. I would be happy to provide you with more information about my experiences at [Organization Name].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 6: Requesting from a Project Lead
Dear [Project Lead’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. My name is [Your Name], and I worked under your leadership on the [Project Name] project from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a [Specific Opportunity, e.g., Summer Internship] at [Company/Institution]. The application deadline is [Date].
Working on the [Project Name] project was an invaluable experience. I especially appreciated your guidance in [Mention a specific skill or task where their guidance was helpful, e.g., data analysis, project management]. I believe the skills I developed during the project, such as [List 2-3 relevant skills], would make me a strong candidate.
I have attached my resume and the description of the [Specific Opportunity] for your review. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me. I’m happy to provide any additional details about my contributions to the project.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 7: Requesting After a Long Period
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class back in [Year]. I know it’s been a while, but I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [University/Company] for [Program/Position Name]. The deadline is [Date].
I still remember [Mention a specific positive memory from their class, e.g., a particularly interesting lecture, a challenging assignment that helped you grow]. Your insights in [Relevant Subject Area] were very influential for me.
I’ve attached my resume, a personal statement outlining my academic/professional journey since [Year], and the description of [Program/Position Name]. Please let me know if you feel you can write a letter of recommendation based on your recollection of me as a student. I completely understand if you are unable to.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 8: Requesting for a Specific Skill Emphasis
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I am particularly hoping you can speak to my skills in [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2]. During my time working at/with [Organization Name], you observed my [Specific Skill 1] skills through [Provide a specific example]. I also believe you can speak to my [Specific Skill 2] as demonstrated by [Provide another specific example].
I have attached my resume, the job description, and a brief overview of the projects I worked on while collaborating with you. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter focusing on these skills. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 9: Requesting an Urgent Recommendation
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I am writing to you with an urgent request for a letter of recommendation. I am applying to [Program/Job Name] at [Institution/Company], and the deadline for submitting recommendations is very soon – [Date]. I realize this is a short timeframe, and I sincerely apologize for the late notice. I was only recently made aware of the opportunity.
I understand you are busy, but I would be incredibly grateful if you could consider writing a letter for me. I have attached my resume, a brief statement of purpose/cover letter, and any other relevant materials. Please let me know as soon as possible if this is something you can accommodate.
Thank you so much for your time and understanding, even if you are unable to fulfill my request given the tight deadline.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 10: Following Up After Initial Request (with a Reminder)
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to follow up on my previous request for a letter of recommendation for [Program/Job Name]. The deadline for submission is approaching on [Date].
I understand you are likely very busy, but I wanted to gently remind you of my request and offer any assistance I can provide. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help facilitate the process or if you have any questions for me.
Thank you again for considering my request. I greatly appreciate your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion: Requesting Letters of Recommendation Effectively
Securing strong letters of recommendation is a crucial step in many application processes. By following these tips, providing ample notice, offering comprehensive information, and expressing gratitude, you can increase your chances of obtaining compelling letters that highlight your strengths and contribute to your success. Remember to be professional, respectful, and proactive throughout the process.
