1. Choose the Right Recommender
The first and most important step is selecting someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your skills, accomplishments, and character. Consider individuals who have witnessed your work ethic firsthand, such as professors, supervisors, or mentors. Think about the specific program or job you’re applying for and choose a recommender whose experience aligns with the application requirements. A generic letter is less impactful than one that specifically addresses the needs of the application.
2. Ask Early and Respectfully
Don’t wait until the last minute to request a recommendation letter. Give your recommender ample time – at least 2-3 weeks, or even more if possible – to write a thoughtful and detailed letter. Approach them respectfully, acknowledging their busy schedule. A simple email or a brief in-person conversation is often the best way to initially inquire if they’re willing to write a letter for you. Avoid putting them on the spot or making them feel obligated.
3. Provide Necessary Information
Make it as easy as possible for your recommender to write a strong letter. Provide them with all the necessary information, including your resume or CV, a personal statement (if applicable), details about the program or job you’re applying for (including deadlines and specific requirements), and any specific points you’d like them to highlight. The more information you provide, the better equipped they will be to write a compelling and relevant recommendation.
4. Follow Up and Express Gratitude
After sending your initial request and providing the necessary information, follow up politely a week or so before the deadline to ensure your recommender hasn’t forgotten. Once the letter has been submitted, express your sincere gratitude. A thank-you note or email is a simple but meaningful gesture that shows your appreciation for their time and effort. Maintaining a positive relationship with your recommenders can be beneficial for future opportunities.
Sample Recommendation Request Letters
Here are some sample letters you can adapt when requesting a recommendation. Remember to personalize them to fit your specific situation.
Sample 1: Request to Professor for Graduate School
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you because I am applying to graduate programs in [Field of Study] and I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me.
I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year]. I particularly learned a lot from [Specific project or topic]. I believe your insights into my abilities in [Relevant skill] would be valuable to my application.
The deadline for applications is [Date]. 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 by [Date – a week before application deadline].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Request to Supervisor for Job Application
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to you because I am applying for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name], and I believe your recommendation would greatly strengthen my application.
During my time working under your supervision at [Company Name], I gained valuable experience in [List key skills/achievements]. I am confident that my skills in [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2], which I honed while working on [Specific Project], align well with the requirements of this role.
The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume, the job description, and a brief summary of my accomplishments during my time at [Company Name] for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter of recommendation for me.
Thank you for your support and guidance during my time at [Company Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Request to Mentor for Scholarship Application
Dear [Mentor’s Name],
I am writing to you today to request a letter of recommendation for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have been working towards this scholarship because I hope to [state aspirations/goals].
I greatly value your mentorship over the past [number] years. Your guidance in [Specific Area] has been instrumental in my development, allowing me to cultivate my skills in [List key skills].
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my application materials, including my personal essay and transcripts. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation by [Date- week before deadline].
Thank you so much for all of your help.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Follow Up Recommendation Letter
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to you as a friendly reminder about my request for a letter of recommendation for [Application Type – e.g., the XYZ Graduate Program]. The deadline is approaching on [Date].
I understand you are busy, and I truly appreciate you considering my request. Please let me know if you have any questions or require any further information from me.
Thank you again for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Thank You Letter Post Recommendation
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf for [Application Type – e.g., the XYZ Graduate Program]. I truly appreciate you taking the time to support my application.
Your insights and endorsement mean a great deal to me. I will be sure to update you on the outcome of my application.
Thank you once again for your help and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Requesting Recommendation From Previous Employer
Dear [Previous Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m reaching out because I’m currently applying for a [Job Title] position at [New Company Name]. Given your experience with my work at [Previous Company Name], I was hoping you might consider writing a letter of recommendation for me.
During my time at [Previous Company Name], I particularly enjoyed [Mention a specific project or responsibility that aligns with the new job description]. I believe my contributions to [Specific achievement] demonstrate my ability to [Key skill required for the new role].
I’ve attached my resume and the job description for your review. The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. Please let me know if you’re able to help me with this.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Requesting Recommendation when Short on Time
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to you with a somewhat urgent request. I’m applying for [Opportunity – e.g., a scholarship, internship] and the deadline for recommendations is [Date] – which is sooner than I anticipated.
I know this is a short notice, and I apologize for the tight timeline. Would you be willing to write a brief letter of recommendation highlighting [Specific skill/achievement]? I’ve attached my resume and [Relevant document – e.g., application essay].
I completely understand if your schedule doesn’t allow it, but I would be incredibly grateful if you could help.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Providing a Draft Letter to Recommender
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope you’re having a good week. As we discussed, I’m applying for [Program/Position] and would be very grateful if you would write a letter of recommendation for me. The deadline is [Date].
To make the process easier for you, I’ve prepared a draft letter outlining some of my key accomplishments and skills that I believe are relevant to [Program/Position]. Please feel free to modify it, add your own insights, and use it as a starting point.
I’ve also attached my resume and the application requirements. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you so much for your support!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Requesting a Recommendation After a Long Time
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. It has been a while since we last connected, but I’m reaching out because I’m applying for [Program/Position] and I remember your valuable insights during [Previous interaction/relationship – e.g., my time in your class, working on a project together].
I understand it’s been some time, but I was hoping you might still be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. I’ve been working on [Briefly describe recent achievements/experiences relevant to the application].
I’ve attached my updated resume and a brief overview of the [Program/Position]. The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. Please let me know if this is something you’re able to do.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Requesting a recommendation letter is a crucial step in many application processes. By following these guidelines – choosing the right recommender, asking respectfully and early, providing sufficient information, and expressing your gratitude – you can increase your chances of securing strong and impactful letters that will significantly enhance your application. Remember to always personalize your requests and maintain professional communication throughout the process. Good luck!
