Are you seeking a recommendation letter but don’t know where to start? Look no further – I’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find a sample email that you can use as a template. It’s straightforward and easy to customize to fit your specific needs. Additionally, there are several examples available online that you can peruse and edit as necessary. Don’t let the idea of asking for a recommendation intimidate you – with the right approach, it can be a simple, stress-free process. So what are you waiting for? Take a look at the sample email below and get started on securing that recommendation letter you need.
Dear [Recipient Name],
I hope this email finds you well. As you know, I am currently in the process of applying for [insert opportunity or position you’re seeking] and I was hoping to ask for your assistance in the form of a recommendation letter.
Your experience with me as [insert how you worked with them – ex: boss, teacher, etc] has been invaluable to me and I believe your recommendation could greatly enhance my chances of being selected for this opportunity. I truly appreciate your help and support.
Please let me know if you need any additional information from me or if there is anything else I can provide to make this process easier for you. I understand how busy you are, so I completely understand if this is not possible at this time.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I greatly appreciate everything you have done for me thus far.
Best,
[Your Name]
The Best Structure for Asking for a Recommendation Letter
Asking for a recommendation letter can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary step in many applications, such as jobs, scholarships, and graduate schools. While some people may feel hesitant to ask for a recommendation letter, it’s important to remember that most people are happy to help when they can.
The best structure for asking for a recommendation letter is to be direct and clear about what you need and why you need it. It’s important to provide context and information that can be used to write a strong recommendation letter. The following steps can help you draft an effective email or letter:
Step 1: Introduction
Begin your email or letter with a friendly greeting, such as “Dear Professor Smith” or “Hello Dr. Jones.” It’s important to address the recipient properly and use a professional tone throughout the email. Introduce yourself and explain why you’re writing this email. Be clear and concise in your explanation and provide some context for what you are asking for. This will help the recipient understand your request and see why it’s important.
Step 2: Explanation
Explain why you are asking for a recommendation letter. Be specific in your request and explain how the recommendation letter will be used. For example, if you are applying for a job, explain what the job is and why you’re interested in it. If you’re applying to graduate school, explain why you’re pursuing this degree and what your goals are. The more information you can provide, the easier it will be for the letter writer to craft a strong letter.
Step 3: Deadline
It’s important to provide a deadline for when you need the recommendation letter. This should be at least two weeks before the application deadline, so the letter writer has plenty of time to write and submit the letter. If you need the letter sooner, be sure to let them know and ask if it’s possible to expedite the process.
Step 4: Thank You
Always end your email or letter with a thank you message. Thank the person for their time and effort in writing the letter. Express your gratitude for their support and end the email on a positive note. This will demonstrate your appreciation and reinforce the relationship you have with the letter writer.
In conclusion, asking for a recommendation letter can be a straightforward process if you follow these tips. Be direct and clear in your request and provide the necessary information to help the writer craft a strong letter. With these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to securing that important recommendation letter for your application.
Sample Emails Requesting Recommendation Letters
Request for Recommendation Letter for Grad School Application
Dear Professor Smith,
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying to several graduate programs in environmental science and policy and I would be honored if you could write a recommendation letter for me. My undergraduate experience in your environmental studies course was instrumental in shaping my interests and career path. I am confident that your letter will positively impact my chances of acceptance at these programs.
I would greatly appreciate if you could speak to my strengths in research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, if possible, please touch upon my ability to collaborate with others and my dedication to environmental advocacy. I have attached my resume and personal statement for your reference as well.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Request for Recommendation Letter for a Job
Dear Manager Smith,
I hope this email finds you well. I am excited to apply for the position of Marketing Manager at XYZ Company and I am reaching out to you for a recommendation letter. My experience working for your team as a Marketing Assistant for over a year has been invaluable in shaping my skills and approach to marketing. I am confident that your positive feedback would strengthen my application for this new job.
If possible, could you highlight my skills in branding, copywriting, and project management? You can also speak to my eagerness to learn and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. If there are any specific projects or achievements you would like to highlight, please let me know. I have attached my resume and cover letter for your reference as well.
Thank you so much for your time and support. I truly appreciate it.
Best regards,
John Doe
Request for Scholarship Recommendation Letter
Dear Professor Johnson,
I hope you are doing well. I am applying for several scholarships for my upcoming semester and I am seeking a recommendation letter from you. Your expertise in the field of economics and my performance in your classes have been instrumental in developing my passion for economics. I am confident that your letter would positively impact my scholarship applications.
If possible, could you highlight my academic strengths and potential as a future economist? You can also speak to my involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, and research projects. I have attached my resume and transcripts for your reference as well.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Jessica Lee
Request for Recommendation Letter for Graduating Seniors
Dear Dean Johnson,
I hope this email finds you well. I am a graduating senior majoring in psychology and I am requesting a recommendation letter from you for graduate school applications. As the dean of our psychology department, your letter would hold immense value and weight in contributing to my acceptance to these programs.
If possible, could you speak to my academic performance in your courses, research abilities, and leadership potential? Additionally, I would appreciate any personal anecdotes or experiences you would like to share about me that would showcase my qualities as a strong candidate for graduate school. I have attached my resume and personal statement for your reference as well.
Thank you for your time and support. I appreciate everything you have done for me during my time here at XYZ University.
Best regards,
David Kim
Request for Recommendation Letter for Study Abroad Program
Dear Professor Lee,
I hope this email finds you well. I am excited to apply to the Study Abroad Program in South Korea for next semester and I am seeking a recommendation letter from you. Your classes in Korean literature and culture have expanded my knowledge and passion for Korean studies. With your letter, I am confident that I can showcase my commitment to this program and make a strong case for my acceptance.
If possible, could you touch upon my academic performance and interest in Korean studies, language proficiency, and adaptability to new environments? I have attached my resume and study abroad statement for your reference as well.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Alicia Park
Request for Recommendation Letter for Volunteer Work
Dear Mr. Jackson,
I hope you are doing well. I have been volunteering at ABC Shelter for the past year and I am applying for a volunteer coordination position at DEF Shelter. As a supervisor and mentor to me during my time at ABC Shelter, I am requesting a recommendation letter from you to strengthen my application for this new position.
If possible, could you highlight my reliability, teamwork, and communication skills? Additionally, if there are any specific projects or initiatives I have taken on that you would like to mention, please let me know. Your support would mean the world to me. I have attached my resume and cover letter for your reference as well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this email. I appreciate everything you have taught me during my volunteer service.
Best regards,
Emily White
Request for Recommendation Letter for Law School Application
Dear Professor Brown,
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying to several law schools and I am requesting a recommendation letter from you. Your course on Constitutional Law was one of the most intellectually stimulating courses I have ever taken and I believe your letter would be a significant factor in my acceptance to these law schools.
If possible, could you speak to my strengths in legal research, writing, and analysis? Additionally, if you could mention any specific contributions or debates I have participated in during your class, that would showcase my legal acumen and passion for law. I have attached my resume and personal statement for your reference as well.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate everything you have taught me during my time at XYZ College.
Sincerely,
Thomas Lee
Related Tips for Writing a Sample Email Asking for a Recommendation Letter
When asking for a recommendation letter, it is important to approach the situation with tact, thoughtfulness, and a clear understanding of what you are asking for. Here are some tips to keep in mind when crafting your email:
- Be clear and specific about what you are asking for: Before you even begin writing your email, make sure you have a clear idea of what you are asking for. This includes identifying the specific program or opportunity you are applying for, as well as any specific qualities or experiences you would like your recommender to highlight in their letter. This will help them tailor their letter to your needs and ensure that it aligns with the requirements of the opportunity you are pursuing.
- Choose your recommenders carefully: Your recommender should be someone who knows you well, can speak to your strengths and abilities, and is highly respected in your field or industry. When approaching potential recommenders, be sure to explain why you are interested in their recommendation and how you think their specific insights and perspectives will help you in your application.
- Provide plenty of lead time: It is important to approach your recommenders well in advance of any application deadlines, as they are likely to be busy and have other demands on their time. Provide them with a clear timeline and with any relevant materials or information they may need to write an effective recommendation letter.
- Be polite and respectful: Remember, your recommenders are doing you a favor, and you should treat them accordingly. Be polite and respectful in your email, and thank them for their time and consideration. It is also a good idea to follow up with a thoughtful, handwritten thank-you note after the letter of recommendation has been submitted.
- Offer to reciprocate: If possible, offer to write a recommendation letter for your recommender in the future. This shows that you appreciate their support and value your professional relationship with them, and can also help you build your own network of contacts and references.
By following these tips and approaching your request for a recommendation letter thoughtfully and respectfully, you can increase your chances of getting a positive, effective recommendation that will help take your career or academic pursuits to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions about Requesting a Recommendation Letter via Email
How do I begin an email asking for a recommendation letter?
It’s always best to start with a formal greeting and a personal connection. Introduce yourself, state your purpose for the email, and explain why you chose the person to write the recommendation letter.
What information should I include in my email when requesting a recommendation letter?
Include your name, the type of program or job you are applying for, the deadline for the recommendation letter, and any specific information that the recommender needs to know. You may also attach your resume or transcript for reference.
How much time should I give my recommender to write the letter?
It’s best to give at least two to three weeks of notice before the deadline. This allows your recommender enough time to write a well-crafted letter without feeling rushed.
What if my recommender declines or does not respond to my request?
Respect their decision and kindly thank them for their time. Consider reaching out to another potential recommender and give them ample time to write a strong letter.
Should I follow up with my recommender after sending the initial email?
Yes, it’s always a good idea to follow up after a week or two if you haven’t heard back. Be polite and gracious in your follow-up email, and remind them of the deadline.
What should I do once my recommender has agreed to write the letter?
Schedule a time to meet or speak with them about what you would like to include in the letter. Provide them with any additional information or documents, and express your gratitude for their support.
Is it okay to send a thank-you note or gift to my recommender after they have written the letter?
Yes, a thank-you note or small gift is a polite way to express your gratitude for their time and effort. However, it’s important to remember that it’s not required or expected, and you should never offer any form of compensation for a recommendation letter.
Thanks for considering my request for a recommendation letter!
I hope my sample email has been helpful in guiding you on how to ask for a recommendation letter. Remember, it’s important to be polite and gracious when making this request, and give your recommender ample time to respond. Good luck on your future endeavors, and don’t forget to come back and check out more of our helpful articles in the future!