Crafting the Perfect Recommendation Request
A well-crafted recommendation request letter is crucial for securing strong endorsements. Begin by identifying individuals who know your work ethic, skills, and achievements best. Consider professors, supervisors, mentors, or colleagues who can speak to your specific qualifications for the opportunity you’re pursuing. Timing is key; give your recommenders ample time – ideally at least two weeks – to write a thoughtful and detailed letter. Providing them with relevant information, like your resume, the purpose of the recommendation, and any specific points you’d like them to address, is essential for a compelling letter of support.
Essential Elements of a Successful Request
Your request should be clear, concise, and professional. Clearly state the purpose of the recommendation and the deadline for submission. Briefly remind the recommender of your relationship and any significant accomplishments or projects you worked on together. This will refresh their memory and help them write a more personalized and effective letter. Offer to provide any additional information they might need, and express your gratitude for their time and effort. A personalized thank you goes a long way in fostering a positive relationship.
Maximizing the Impact of Your Request
Make it easy for your recommender to say “yes.” Prepare a brief outline or bullet points of key information they might find useful. Provide them with a pre-addressed and stamped envelope (if a physical letter is required) or a direct link to the online submission portal. Follow up a few days before the deadline to politely remind them and ensure they have everything they need. After the recommendation is submitted, send a sincere thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their support. This reinforces your professional relationship and demonstrates your gratitude.
Importance of Providing Sufficient Information
Beyond a resume, consider providing a statement of purpose or a brief description of the role or program you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant and explain why you’re a good fit. By providing context and specific details, you empower your recommender to write a more targeted and impactful letter. Remember, the more information you provide, the better equipped they are to advocate for you. A well-informed recommender can significantly strengthen your application.
Recommendation Request Letter Samples
Sample Letter 1: Request to a 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]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
As you may recall, I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. I particularly enjoyed [Specific topic or project], and I believe my work in your class demonstrated my [Relevant skills]. I am confident that my academic background and research experience make me a strong candidate for this program.
I have attached my resume and a statement of purpose for your review. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me. I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 2: Request to a Supervisor
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
During my time at [Company Name], I have had the pleasure of working under your supervision on several projects, including [Project 1] and [Project 2]. I believe my contributions to these projects, such as [Specific achievement 1] and [Specific achievement 2], demonstrate my ability to [Relevant skills].
I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to provide me with a letter of recommendation. I am available to discuss my qualifications further at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 3: Request to a Mentor
Dear [Mentor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to you because I am applying for a [Type of opportunity, e.g., scholarship, internship] at [Organization Name], and I would be incredibly grateful if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me. The deadline is [Date].
Your guidance and support have been invaluable to me over the years, particularly in [Specific area where they mentored you]. I believe your insights into my [Specific qualities or skills] would be highly valuable to the selection committee.
I have attached my application materials and a brief summary of my accomplishments. Please let me know if you are able to assist me with this request. Thank you so much for your ongoing support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 4: Request for Graduate School
Dear Dr. [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to graduate school at [University Name] for a [Degree] in [Field of Study]. The application deadline is [Date].
I thoroughly enjoyed your [Course Name] class and learned a great deal about [Specific Topic]. Your lectures inspired me to pursue further study in this area. I believe my research paper on [Paper Topic] demonstrated my ability to think critically and conduct independent research.
I have attached my resume, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample for your review. 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 5: Request for Scholarship
Dear [Professor/Advisor Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. The deadline for submission is [Date].
This scholarship would greatly assist me in continuing my education and pursuing my academic goals in [Field of Study]. As my [Your Relationship – e.g., professor, advisor] in [Course Name/Department], you have witnessed my dedication to [Specific Area] and my commitment to academic excellence.
I have attached my resume, transcript, and a personal statement outlining my qualifications and aspirations. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter on my behalf. I would be happy to meet with you to discuss my application in more detail.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 6: Request for Internship
Dear [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for an internship at [Company Name] in [Department] and would be very grateful if you would write a letter of recommendation for me. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I particularly enjoyed your [Course Name] class and believe the skills I developed there, such as [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], are directly relevant to this internship. I was also a diligent student and actively participated in class discussions.
I have attached my resume and the internship description for your review. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 7: Request for a Job Application
Dear [Previous Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today to request a letter of recommendation for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The deadline for the application is [Date].
During my time at [Previous Company Name], I had the pleasure of working under your supervision as a [Your Position]. I believe my contributions to the [Project Name] project, particularly in [Specific Area of Contribution], highlight my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2].
I have attached my resume and the job description for your convenience. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me. I would be happy to provide you with any further information you may require.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 8: Request to a Colleague
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for a [Position Type] opportunity at [Organization]. The deadline for submitting the recommendation is [Date].
As we worked together on [Project Name] at [Company Name], you had the opportunity to witness my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], as well as my ability to [Describe a relevant achievement or characteristic]. I believe your perspective would be valuable to the selection committee.
I’ve attached my resume and a brief description of the opportunity. Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 9: Request from a Recent Graduate
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation as I begin my job search after graduating from [University Name]. I am particularly interested in positions in [Industry/Field].
I valued your guidance in [Course Name], and I believe the knowledge and skills I gained in your class, especially related to [Specific Skill or Topic], will be beneficial in my career. I still refer to my notes from your class regularly!
I have attached my updated resume for your reference. If you are able to write a letter of recommendation, please let me know. Thank you for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 10: Request for a Volunteer Position
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the [Organization Name] volunteer program. The deadline for the letter is [Date].
During my time volunteering with [Organization Name], I particularly enjoyed [Specific task or activity] and believe my contributions in [Area of Contribution] demonstrated my [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2]. I am very passionate about [Cause related to volunteering].
I have attached my resume and a brief description of my volunteer experience. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter on my behalf. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 11: Request After a Long Period
Dear [Former Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. It’s been a while since I worked at [Former Company Name], but I’m hoping you might be able to assist me with a letter of recommendation. I’m applying for a [Job Title] position at [New Company Name]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
During my time at [Former Company Name], I had the pleasure of working under your supervision as a [Your Former Position]. I recall contributing to [Project Name] and gaining valuable experience in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2]. I am confident that my skills and experience will be a valuable asset to [New Company Name].
I have attached my resume and the job description for your convenience. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me. I would be happy to provide you with any further information you may require.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 12: Request to Academic advisor
Dear [Advisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Program Name] at [University Name]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
As my academic advisor, you have a comprehensive understanding of my academic progress and potential. Your insights regarding my strengths, skills, and capabilities would be invaluable to the selection committee. I am particularly interested in the [Specialization] track.
I have attached my resume and a statement of purpose for your review. Please let me know if you are able to provide me with a letter of recommendation. I am available to discuss my qualifications further at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 13: Request for a Promotion
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
During my time at [Company Name], I have had the pleasure of working under your supervision. I believe my contributions to [Project 1] and [Project 2], in addition to my overall performance, demonstrate my readiness for a promotion to [Job Title].
I have attached my resume and a brief description of my accomplishments and how I have improved during my work in [Company Name]. Please let me know if you are able to provide me with a letter of recommendation. I am available to discuss my qualifications further at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 14: Request for a Transfer Position
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a transfer position at [Company Name]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
I would like to request a transfer to your branch due to [Reasons for transfer] to enhance my skills and knowledge further in your team. During my time at [Company Name], I have had the pleasure of working under your supervision. I believe my contributions to [Project 1] and [Project 2], have demonstrated my skills and is ready for this opportunity.
I have attached my resume. Please let me know if you are able to provide me with a letter of recommendation. I am available to discuss my qualifications further at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 15: Request to a Project Partner
Dear [Partner’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for a [Purpose, e.g., grant application, award nomination]. The deadline for the letter is [Date].
Having collaborated with you on [Project Name], I believe you can speak to my contributions and abilities effectively. Specifically, your insights into my [Specific Skill/Quality demonstrated during collaboration] would be particularly valuable.
I’ve attached relevant materials about the [Grant/Award] and a brief overview of my role in our project. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of support. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Requesting a letter of recommendation can feel daunting, but by following these tips and using the sample letters as a guide, you can significantly increase your chances of securing a strong and supportive endorsement. Remember to be proactive, provide ample information, and express your sincere gratitude. A well-crafted request demonstrates professionalism and respect for your recommender’s time, leading to a more compelling and impactful letter.
