Securing strong recommendation letters is crucial for academic applications, job searches, and scholarship opportunities. The key is to make the request process as easy as possible for your recommenders. A well-crafted email can significantly increase your chances of getting a positive and timely response. This involves providing them with all the necessary information upfront, demonstrating respect for their time, and expressing your gratitude.
When drafting your email, be sure to personalize it. Avoid generic messages; tailor each email to the specific recommender and the opportunity you’re pursuing. Remind them of your connection, highlight relevant experiences you shared, and clearly articulate why you’ve chosen them to write the letter. Specify the deadline for the letter submission, and offer to provide them with any additional materials they might need, such as your resume, transcript, or a personal statement.
To streamline the process, offer to meet with them to discuss your goals and qualifications in more detail. Providing a detailed outline of your accomplishments and the specific skills you’d like them to highlight can make their job easier. Be proactive in following up politely closer to the deadline to ensure they have everything they need and to reiterate your appreciation. Remember, clear communication and genuine appreciation go a long way in securing a strong recommendation.
Sample Recommendation Letter Request Emails
Sample Email 1: Professor Recommendation (Graduate School)
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Graduate Application for [Program Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year] semester, and I greatly benefited from your lectures and discussions on [Specific Topic].
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and personal statement for your reference. I’m happy to provide any further information you might need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
Sample Email 2: Supervisor Recommendation (Job Application)
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Job Title] Application at [Company Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me.
During my time at [Company Name], I reported to you as a [Your Role]. You have witnessed my work ethic and skills in various projects, especially [Specific Project]. I believe your insights into my abilities in [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2] would be invaluable to my application.
The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your convenience. Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter, and if so, if there is any other information I can provide.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
Sample Email 3: Professor Recommendation (Scholarship)
Subject: Recommendation Request – Scholarship Application – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. This scholarship would be a significant help in enabling me to continue my studies at [University Name].
I believe your insights on my performance in your [Course Name] class and my contributions to [Class Project/Discussion] would be very helpful. I particularly remember the impact that your teaching had on my understanding of [Specific Subject]. I believe I have grown substantially since taking your class and am passionate about continuing my work in this field.
The deadline for the recommendation is [Date]. I have attached my application materials, including my personal essay and transcript. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter and if you need any further information.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Student ID]
[Your Email Address]
Sample Email 4: Mentor Recommendation (Internship)
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – Internship Application at [Company Name]
Dear [Mentor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m applying for an internship at [Company Name] in the [Department] and was hoping you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me.
I really value the mentorship you provided me during [Time Period]. Your guidance on [Specific Skill/Project] was incredibly helpful, and I believe the skills I developed under your tutelage would be highly relevant to this internship. Specifically, the insights you shared about [Specific Topic] were invaluable and directly applicable to the requirements of this internship.
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached the internship description and my resume. I’d be happy to discuss this further if it would be helpful.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Sample Email 5: Request From a Former Student
Subject: Recommendation Request – [Your Name] – [Opportunity: Grad School/Job/Scholarship]
Dear [Professor’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year]. I am writing to you today to request a letter of recommendation.
I am applying for [Specify the opportunity: e.g., a Master’s program in Computer Science at [University Name]]. I particularly valued your insights on [Specific topic from the course that relates to the opportunity]. I believe your observations about my [Specific Skill demonstrated in class, e.g., problem-solving abilities] would be beneficial to my application.
The deadline for the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume, a brief statement of purpose, and any other relevant materials to this email. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me and if you require any further information.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
In conclusion, crafting effective recommendation letter request emails involves personalization, clarity, and respect for the recommender’s time. By providing ample information, highlighting your qualifications, and expressing sincere gratitude, you significantly increase your chances of securing strong and impactful letters of recommendation that can greatly enhance your applications.
