Crafting the Perfect Recommendation Request
Requesting a letter of recommendation can feel daunting, but with careful planning and a personalized approach, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving a strong and supportive letter. The key is to make the process as easy as possible for the recommender and provide them with all the necessary information to write a compelling endorsement. Consider who knows you well and can speak to your relevant skills and experiences for the specific opportunity you are pursuing.
Essential Elements of a Strong Request
A well-crafted request includes several key elements: a polite and respectful tone, a clear explanation of why you are asking that specific person, details about the opportunity (e.g., job, program, scholarship), information about your accomplishments and experiences relevant to the opportunity, and a deadline. Don’t forget to express your gratitude for their time and consideration. Providing a resume, personal statement draft, or project summary can also be immensely helpful.
Timing and Follow-Up Strategies
Give your recommenders ample time to write a thoughtful letter – ideally, at least 3-4 weeks. Send a reminder a week before the deadline, but do so politely and avoid being pushy. After the letter has been submitted (and you’ve been accepted to the program/job/etc.), send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation. This maintains a positive relationship and shows your professionalism.
Choosing the Right Recommender
The best recommender isn’t always the most prestigious person you know. It’s someone who knows you well and can genuinely vouch for your skills, work ethic, and character. Consider professors who taught you in relevant courses, supervisors who oversaw your projects, or mentors who have witnessed your growth. A personalized letter from someone who truly knows you will be far more impactful than a generic letter from a well-known figure.
18 Sample Letter Request Templates
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Sample Letter 1: Academic Recommendation (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].
As you know, I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year], where I excelled in [mention specific skills or projects]. I believe my experience in your class has prepared me well for the challenges of the [Program Name] program.
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a draft of my personal statement for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 2: Professional Recommendation (Supervisor)
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name].
During my time at [Company Name], I worked under your supervision on [Project Name]. I gained valuable experience in [mention specific skills or achievements] that are highly relevant to the requirements of the [Job Title] position.
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you can support my application with a letter. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 3: Scholarship Application
Dear [Professor/Supervisor Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Scholarship Name] scholarship.
As my [Professor/Supervisor], you have seen my dedication to [Field of Study/Work Area] and my commitment to [Specific Achievement]. I believe this scholarship will enable me to further my studies/career in [Specific Area].
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I have included my transcript/resume and details about the scholarship for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter on my behalf. Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 4: Graduate School Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Graduate Program Name] program at [University Name].
Your course, [Course Name], significantly influenced my decision to pursue graduate studies in [Field of Study]. I particularly enjoyed [Specific Aspect of the Course] and believe my skills in [Specific Skills] developed in your class will be valuable in graduate school.
The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume, personal statement, and a brief description of the program requirements. Please let me know if you’re able to write a recommendation for me. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 5: Internship Application
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for an internship at [Company Name] as a [Internship Role] and would be honored if you could write a letter of recommendation for me.
During my time working on [Project Name] under your supervision, I developed skills in [Specific Skills] that I believe are relevant to this internship. I am particularly interested in [Specific Area] at [Company Name].
The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the internship description. Please let me know if you can provide a letter of recommendation. Thank you so much for your time.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 6: Job Promotion
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Job Title] position within [Department Name].
During my tenure at [Company Name], I have consistently exceeded expectations in my role as [Current Job Title]. I am confident that my skills in [Specific Skills] and my experience with [Specific Projects] make me an ideal candidate for this promotion.
The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my performance review and a summary of my accomplishments. Please let me know if you’re able to support my application. Thank you for your guidance and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 7: Volunteering Opportunity
Dear [Organization Contact Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to volunteer with [Volunteer Organization Name] as a [Volunteer Role].
Having volunteered with your organization before during [Previous Event/Project], I am familiar with your mission and have greatly enjoyed contributing to your causes. I am confident in my ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the [Volunteer Role].
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached a brief summary of my past involvement. Please let me know if you can provide a letter. Thank you for considering my request.
Best,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 8: Character Reference for Legal Matters
Dear [Judge/Lawyer Name],
I am writing this letter at the request of [Person’s Name], whom I have known for [Number] years, to provide a character reference.
During my time knowing [Person’s Name], I have found them to be [Positive Adjective 1], [Positive Adjective 2], and [Positive Adjective 3]. They have always demonstrated a strong sense of [Positive Quality].
I am confident that [Person’s Name] is a valuable member of the community and will continue to contribute positively. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 9: Recommendation for a Program
Dear [Professor/Coordinator Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] at [Institution Name].
During my time as a [Your Role], I learned [Specific Skill/Knowledge] and would like to enhance that by joining this program. My experience in your [Course/Project] has prepared me for this opportunity.
The submission deadline is [Date]. I have attached my CV and personal essay. Please let me know if you are available to write the letter. Thank you so much for your help.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 10: Recommendation for a Specific Role
Dear [Manager/Leader Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Role Name] at [Company Name]. I had great experiences under your direction at [Workplace Name].
During my time at [Workplace Name], I gained proficiency in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. I believe my skills and experiences make me a strong candidate for this role.
The deadline is [Date]. My resume and a brief project portfolio are attached. Please let me know if you can recommend me for this position. Thank you for your support.
Best,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 11: Request from Former Student
Dear Professor [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Year]. I am currently applying for [Opportunity] and would greatly appreciate a letter of recommendation from you.
I found your course to be incredibly influential in my academic journey. I learned [Specific Skill/Concept] that has been invaluable to me. I have attached my resume and details about [Opportunity].
The deadline for the letter is [Date]. Please let me know if you can support my application. Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 12: Informal Request for Guidance Counselor
Dear [Guidance Counselor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am [Your Name], and I’m applying to several colleges for [Major]. I was wondering if you would be able to write a letter of recommendation for me.
I remember our talks about [Specific Topic Discussed], and I always appreciated your insights. I’m really excited about the prospect of studying [Major] in college. I have attached my transcripts and a list of the colleges I’m applying to.
The deadline for most applications is [Date]. Thank you for your time and consideration. I really value your input.
Best,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 13: Reaching Out to Mentors
Dear [Mentor’s Name],
I hope this finds you in good health. I am writing to you to request a letter of recommendation for my application for the [Program/Position Name] at [Organization Name].
Your guidance has been invaluable to my growth in [Specific Field]. I have been consistently implementing the strategies you’ve shared with me, especially regarding [Specific Skill/Aspect], and it’s made a significant difference.
The recommendation is due by [Date]. Attached are my resume and a detailed overview of the program/position. Thank you for your consideration.
Best,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 14: Professional Association Request
Dear [Professional Association Contact Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Membership/Certification] with [Professional Association Name].
Through my involvement in the organization’s [Events/Workshops], I have strengthened my skills in [Relevant Skill]. I believe that obtaining the [Membership/Certification] will enhance my professional capabilities.
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. My credentials and other supporting documents are attached. Please let me know if you can assist me with this request. Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 15: Personal Reference
Dear [Friend’s/Neighbor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you’d be willing to provide a personal reference for me for a [Purpose – e.g., rental application, volunteer position].
As you know, we’ve been [Relationship – e.g., neighbors] for [Number] years, and you’ve seen me [Positive Qualities – e.g., be responsible, reliable, and community-minded]. I’m applying for [Brief Explanation of Purpose].
They may contact you by [Method – e.g., phone, email]. Let me know if this is something you’re comfortable with, and I can provide you with more details. Thank you so much for considering.
Best,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 16: Community Leader Reference
Dear [Community Leader’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity]. Your position as a community leader has provided you with insight into [Relevant aspect] during my involvement in [Project/Event].
I’ve greatly enjoyed participating in the [Organization’s] activities, especially [Specific Contribution], which I believe demonstrates my dedication to [Core Value]. My experiences have enabled me to develop [Skill 1] and [Skill 2].
The recommendation is due on [Date]. My qualifications are attached. Thank you for your consideration and any support you can provide.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 17: Peer Recommendation (with a caveat)
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program/Position], and I believe your unique insights as a colleague could be incredibly valuable.
I recognize that asking a peer for a formal recommendation is unusual, but your perspective on my collaborative skills, problem-solving abilities, and contributions to our team would greatly enhance my application. Specifically, your thoughts on [Specific event] would be particularly insightful.
The deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a summary of the [Program/Position]. Please let me know if you’re comfortable providing such a reference. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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Sample Letter 18: Follow-Up Request
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my earlier request for a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program/Position] due on [Date].
I understand that you are very busy, but I wanted to ensure that you had all the necessary information and to offer any additional assistance if needed. Please let me know if there is anything else I can provide.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I greatly appreciate your support.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Key Takeaways for Recommendation Success
Requesting a letter of recommendation is a crucial step in many application processes. By following these guidelines – choosing the right recommender, providing ample information and time, and expressing your gratitude – you can significantly increase your chances of receiving a strong and compelling letter that enhances your application. Remember that building relationships and maintaining professionalism are key to a successful request.
