Requesting Recommendation Letters: Samples & Expert Tips

Planning Your Request: Timing and Preparation

The key to obtaining a strong letter of recommendation lies in strategic planning. Begin by identifying individuals who know you well and can speak positively about your skills, work ethic, and character. Ideally, choose recommenders who have witnessed your abilities firsthand, such as professors, supervisors, or mentors. Crucially, give your recommenders ample time – at least several weeks, preferably a month – to write a thoughtful and detailed letter. Rushing them will likely result in a generic, less impactful recommendation.

The Art of the Ask: Professional and Prepared

When approaching potential recommenders, do so with professionalism and preparation. Start by politely inquiring if they feel comfortable writing a strong letter on your behalf. Providing them with a resume, transcript (if applicable), a personal statement (if available), and a clear explanation of the purpose for the letter is essential. Clearly outline your goals and any specific qualities you’d like them to highlight. This equips them with the necessary information to craft a compelling and relevant recommendation.

Following Up and Expressing Gratitude

After making your request, follow up politely a week or so before the deadline to ensure your recommender has everything they need. Avoid being pushy, but gently remind them of the due date. Once the letter is submitted (or, even if they decline to write one), express your sincere gratitude. A simple thank-you note, email, or even a small gift can go a long way in showing your appreciation for their time and effort. Building and maintaining these professional relationships is invaluable.

Sample Recommendation Request Letters (20 Examples)

Sample Letter 1: To a Professor (Academic Application)

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]. I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year], and I believe my performance in the course, particularly on the [Specific Assignment/Project], demonstrates my aptitude for [Relevant Skill/Area].

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my resume, transcript, and a personal statement that further details my academic and professional goals. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me. I would be happy to provide any additional information you may need.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 2: To a Supervisor (Job Application)

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope you are doing well. As you know, I am currently seeking new opportunities in the [Industry/Field]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my job application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. During my time at [Company Name], I had the pleasure of working under your supervision on the [Project Name] team. I believe you are well-acquainted with my skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3], as demonstrated by my contributions to [Specific Achievements].

The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. I would be grateful if you could highlight my [Specific Qualities/Skills] in your letter. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me.

Thank you for your guidance and support during my time at [Company Name].

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 3: To a Mentor (General Recommendation)

Dear [Mentor’s Name],

I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you. Your guidance and support have been invaluable to me over the years. As my mentor, you have witnessed my growth and development in [Specific Area of Development] and possess a strong understanding of my strengths and capabilities. I am currently [briefly describe your current situation or goal, e.g., applying to graduate school, seeking a promotion, exploring new career paths]. A letter from you would be incredibly helpful in achieving my goals.

I have attached my resume and a brief summary of my current aspirations. Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter of recommendation for me. I am happy to provide further information or answer any questions you may have.

Thank you for your ongoing support and mentorship.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 4: To a Professor (Scholarship Application)

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 for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year], where I consistently participated in discussions and excelled on assignments, particularly the [Specific Assignment]. I believe this demonstrates my dedication to [Subject Area].

The deadline for the scholarship application is [Date]. I have attached my resume, transcript, personal statement, and information about the scholarship requirements. Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation highlighting my academic achievements and potential for future success in [Field of Study]?

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 5: To a Supervisor (Internship Application)

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope you are doing well. I am applying for an internship at [Company Name] as a [Internship Title] intern, and I would be grateful if you would write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. During my time working with you at [Your Company], I gained valuable experience in [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2]. I particularly enjoyed [Specific Project] and believe my contributions to it demonstrated my [Specific Quality, e.g., problem-solving abilities].

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my resume, the internship description, and a brief statement about my goals. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation for me; I would be happy to provide any further details.

Thank you for your guidance and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 6: To a Colleague (New Job Opportunity)

Dear [Colleague’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you because I am applying for a position as a [Job Title] at [Company Name] and was hoping you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. During our time working together at [Your Company], I always admired your expertise in [Area of Expertise] and valued your perspective on projects such as [Project Name].

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your review. Please let me know if you feel comfortable recommending me for this role.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 7: To a Volunteer Coordinator (Job/School Application)

Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you. As you know, I volunteered with [Organization Name] for [Number] years, contributing to [Specific Activities/Projects]. I’m currently [Applying to school/Applying for a job] and believe that a letter from you, highlighting my dedication and work ethic during my time as a volunteer, would be very helpful.

The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief description of my current goals. Please let me know if this is something you would be willing to do.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 8: To a Sports Coach (College Application)

Dear Coach [Coach’s Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [College Name]. As my coach for the [Sport] team at [High School/Organization], you have witnessed my athletic abilities, teamwork skills, and dedication to the sport over the past [Number] years. I believe a letter from you would be valuable in showcasing my commitment and potential.

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my athletic resume and a brief statement of my college aspirations. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter on my behalf.

Thank you for your guidance and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 9: To a Music/Art Teacher (College Application)

Dear [Teacher’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 [College Name] for the [Major/Program] program. As my [Instrument/Art Form] teacher for the past [Number] years, you have witnessed my artistic development and passion for [Art Form].

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my portfolio/performance resume and a personal statement about my artistic goals. Would you be willing to write a letter highlighting my skills, creativity, and dedication to [Art Form]?

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 10: To a Professor (Graduate School Application)

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 [Graduate Program] program at [University Name]. I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year], and I believe my performance, particularly on the [Specific Project/Paper], demonstrated my potential for graduate-level research in [Specific Area].

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my resume, transcript, statement of purpose, and a description of the research I hope to pursue. Please let me know if you are able to write a strong letter of recommendation 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 11: To a Former Employer (Job Promotion)

Dear [Former Employer’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to you because I’m applying for a promotion to [New Job Title] within my current company, [Your Company Name]. As you know, I worked under your supervision as a [Your Previous Role] at [Company Name]. Given your knowledge of my skills and work ethic during that time, I was hoping you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation in support of my application.

The deadline for submitting internal applications is [Date]. I have attached my updated resume and the job description for the promotion. Please let me know if you would be comfortable providing a letter of recommendation.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 12: To a Current Manager (Job Promotion)

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to formally request your support in my application for the [New Job Title] position within the [Department] department. I believe that my [Number] years of experience in the company, my contributions to [Project Name], and my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] make me a strong candidate for this role. I would be honored if you would write a letter of recommendation outlining my qualifications and suitability for the promotion.

The application deadline is [Date]. I am happy to provide you with my resume, performance reviews, and a detailed overview of my accomplishments within the company. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 13: To an Advisor (Fellowship Application)

Dear [Advisor’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Fellowship Name] fellowship. As my advisor, you have been instrumental in guiding my research in [Research Area] and have witnessed my dedication to academic excellence. I believe a letter from you would greatly strengthen my application.

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my curriculum vitae, a research proposal, and the fellowship guidelines. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf.

Thank you for your time and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 14: To a Club Sponsor (Leadership Position)

Dear [Club Sponsor’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the position of [Leadership Position] in [Club Name]. As the sponsor of [Club Name], you have seen my commitment to the club, my leadership abilities, and my ability to work effectively with others.

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached a statement outlining my qualifications and goals for the club. Please let me know if you would be willing to write a letter of support.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 15: To a Department Head (University Program Application)

Dear [Department Head’s Name],

I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program within the [Department] department. I believe my academic performance, research experience, and involvement in departmental activities make me a suitable candidate for this program. I would be grateful if you would write a letter highlighting my qualifications and potential.

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my resume, transcript, and a personal statement. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me.

Thank you for your time and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 16: To a Business Partner (Business School Application)

Dear [Business Partner’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Business School Name] business school. As my business partner in [Company Name], you have witnessed my leadership skills, business acumen, and ability to navigate complex challenges. Your insights into my potential would be invaluable in my application.

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a statement of purpose, and information about the business school. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 17: To a Past Client (Job Application)

Dear [Client’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I’m currently applying for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and was hoping you might be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. During my time working with you on [Project Name] at [Previous Company], I believe I demonstrated my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], as well as my dedication to client satisfaction.

The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your review. Please let me know if you feel comfortable recommending me for this role.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 18: To a Professor (Postdoc Application)

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 for a postdoctoral position in [Field] at [Institution]. During my time as a graduate student in your lab, I gained expertise in [Specific Techniques/Areas] and made significant contributions to [Publications/Projects]. I believe my research experience and skills align well with the requirements of this position.

The deadline for the application is [Date]. I have attached my CV, a research statement, and a brief summary of the proposed research project. Please let me know if you are willing to write a letter of recommendation for me.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 19: To a Club Advisor (Scholarship)

Dear [Advisor’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I am requesting a letter of recommendation for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. During my active participation in [Club Name] under your guidance, I developed strong leadership qualities, enhanced my teamwork skills, and demonstrated dedication to [Relevant Cause]. These experiences have significantly shaped my aspirations and align with the scholarship’s criteria.

The scholarship deadline is [Date]. Attached are my resume, a personal statement highlighting my achievements, and details about the scholarship’s requirements. Kindly let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me.

Thank you for your time and assistance.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Letter 20: To a Former Internship Supervisor (Entry-Level Job)

Dear [Supervisor’s Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for an entry-level [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. During my internship at [Company Name], I gained valuable experience in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2]. I believe the skills I honed under your supervision would make me a strong candidate for this role.

The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]