How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

Requesting for a letter of recommendation can feel daunting sometimes, but you have to be objective about it. Asking for a recommendation means you are asking someone to promote your competencies while simultaneously trying to sell yourself to them. We have a guide that will help reduce your toil and present the request in a way that it demands minimal time and inconveniences from the recommender. This guide is applicable in contexts of job applications, college admissions, and scholarships alike.

Choose the Right Person

First, identify who to ask. Pick someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your abilities, character, and achievements. Ideally, this person should be relevant to the context of your application. For example:
Academic purposes: Choose a teacher, professor, or academic advisor.
Professional purposes: Consider a current or former supervisor, mentor, or colleague.
Personal character reference: A community leader, coach, or family friend who knows you well.

Ask Early

Give your recommender plenty of time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter. Asking at the last minute can put unnecessary pressure on them and might result in a less compelling recommendation. Aim to ask at least a month in advance.

Make a Personal Request

While an email might be convenient, asking in person (or via video call if necessary) is more personal and respectful. It shows that you value their time and effort. If in-person or video call is not possible, ensure your email is polite, clear, and expresses genuine appreciation for their help.

Explain the Purpose

Clearly explain why you need the letter and what it’s for. Provide some context about the opportunity and why you’re excited about it. This helps the recommender understand the significance and tailor the letter to fit the specific needs of your application.

Provide Necessary Information

Make it easy for your recommender by providing all the necessary details:
Deadline: When does the letter need to be submitted?
Submission method: Should they email it, upload it to a portal, or give it to you directly?
Guidelines: Any specific points they need to address? Check if the application has particular requirements.
Background information: A copy of your resume, the relevant job or school description, and a list of your achievements or experiences they might want to highlight.

Highlight Key Points

If there are specific things you’d like them to mention, let them know. This could include particular skills, experiences, or personal qualities that are relevant to the application. If you have a particular job or program in mind for the letter, try to find aspects that comprise the qualifications listed in the descriptions of what that position or group is looking for. For example, a job that is in search of a team player might benefit from a written example that highlights a specific time you showed exceptional teamwork.

Be Available to Help

Let them know you’re available to provide any additional information or clarify any questions they might have. This shows that you’re organized and considerate of their time.

Show Gratitude

Always thank them for their willingness to help you. Writing a letter of recommendation is a favor, and showing appreciation is crucial. After they’ve written the letter, follow up with a thank-you note, expressing your gratitude for their support.

Here’s a sample of how you might ask for a letter of recommendation:

Subject: Request for a Letter of Recommendation

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am applying for [specific program/job] and am writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. Furthermore, I greatly value the experiences and insights I gained while working with you at [Company/School], and I believe your perspective would be incredibly helpful for my application.

The deadline for the letter is [deadline date], and it needs to be submitted [explain submission method]. I have attached my resume and a brief overview of the program/job for your reference. If there are any specific points you think would be helpful to highlight, please let me know.

Thank you very much for considering my request. Your support means a lot to me, and I appreciate your time and effort.

Best regards,

[Your Name]