Obtaining a strong letter of recommendation from a former or current employer can significantly enhance your job application or graduate school prospects. It provides valuable insight into your work ethic, skills, and contributions from someone who has directly observed your performance. However, simply asking for a letter isn’t enough. You need to approach the request strategically to increase your chances of receiving a positive and impactful recommendation.
The first step is to identify the appropriate person to ask. Consider who knows your work best and can speak to your relevant skills and accomplishments. Ideally, this should be your direct supervisor or a manager you worked closely with. Next, prepare your request. Don’t catch them off guard. Schedule a meeting or send an email to inquire if they would be willing to write you a letter of recommendation. Be polite, professional, and clearly state the purpose of the letter and the deadline.
To make the process easier for your employer, provide them with all the necessary information. This includes your resume, a personal statement (if applicable), a description of the job or program you are applying for, and specific examples of projects or accomplishments you want them to highlight. Providing this information will ensure they can write a detailed and personalized letter that accurately reflects your qualifications.
After they’ve agreed, be sure to follow up and thank them sincerely for their time and effort. A handwritten thank-you note can go a long way. Even if the outcome of your application isn’t what you hoped for, maintaining a positive relationship with your former employer is crucial for future opportunities. Remember to also keep them updated on your progress and the results of your application process – they’ll appreciate knowing the impact of their recommendation.
Sample Letter Requests
Sample 1: Email to Supervisor
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
During my time working under your supervision at [Company Name], I was responsible for [List Key Responsibilities/Projects]. I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
I have attached my resume and a brief description of the [Job Title/Program Name] requirements. I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me? Please let me know if this is something you are able to do by [Date]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Formal Letter Request
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Employer’s Name]
[Employer’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to formally request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the [Position Name] at [Company Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
During my employment at [Company Name] as a [Your Job Title] from [Start Date] to [End Date], I consistently demonstrated my ability to [List Key Skills and Achievements]. I am particularly proud of [Specific Achievement 1] and [Specific Achievement 2], which directly contributed to [Positive Outcome for the Company].
I have attached my resume and a job description for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me. I am available to meet at your convenience to discuss this further.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Follow up email
Subject: Following up on Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am following up on my previous request from [Date] for a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I just wanted to see if you had a chance to consider my request and if there is any additional information I can provide. I understand that you are very busy.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Thank You Email
Subject: Thank you for the Recommendation Letter – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for taking the time to write a letter of recommendation for me. Your support means a great deal to me.
I truly appreciate you taking the time to write that.
Thank you again.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Requesting Letter after an Interview
Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I recently had an interview for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. They asked for references and after I interview I remember that I had great experience with you.
I was wondering if you will be able to provide me a letter of recommendation. The deadline for submission is [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Letter Request From Former Employee
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I used to work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Requesting Letter after helping a customer
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I believe my contributions to the customer that I served, and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Follow Up if no reponse
Subject: Following up on Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I’m just following up regarding to the letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I hope you have not forgotten.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Thank You for Recommendation
Subject: Thank You! – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I’m writing this email to thank you for the recommendation that you had written for me, I appreciate it a lot.
Thank you again.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Asking Someone who’s Retired
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I know that you are retired, but I’m hoping that you can still do this for me.
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Letter Request after Promotion
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I was recently promoted and I wanted to see if you can give me one.
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Letter Request for someone who is leaving the company
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am leaving the company.
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Letter Request for Internship
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am trying to get an internship.
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Letter Request for Graduate School
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am trying to apply for Graduate School.
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Letter Request for Someone who has no longer works with the company
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am looking for a recommendation to give to someone that used to work with the company.
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 16: Letter Request for Transfer
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m [Your Name], and I work in your team.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title/Program Name] at [Company/University Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date]. I am trying to apply for a transfer.
I believe my contributions to [Specific Project] and my skills in [List Relevant Skills] would be particularly relevant to this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, requesting a letter of recommendation from your employer requires careful planning and execution. By following these steps and providing your employer with the necessary information, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving a strong and impactful letter that will support your career goals. Remember to be polite, professional, and always express your gratitude for their time and effort. A well-crafted recommendation can be a powerful tool in your job search or application process.
