Requesting a letter of recommendation can feel like a big step, and it's important to get it right. Whether you're applying for a job, graduate school, or even a scholarship, a well-written recommendation letter can significantly boost your application. This article will guide you through crafting effective emails to ask for these crucial endorsements, and we'll provide a "Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter" to get you started.
Crafting Your Request: Key Components of a Strong Recommendation Email
When you approach someone for a recommendation, your email needs to be clear, concise, and provide all the necessary information for them to write a strong letter. A good "Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter" will demonstrate your thoughtfulness and respect for the recommender's time. It's important to give them ample notice so they can dedicate the necessary attention to writing a personalized and compelling letter for you.
Here are some essential elements to include:
- A clear and polite greeting.
- A reminder of your relationship with the recommender and when you last interacted.
- The specific purpose of the recommendation (e.g., job application, graduate program).
- The deadline for submission.
- Any relevant documents they might need, such as your resume, personal statement, or the job/program description.
- An offer to meet or discuss further.
Here's a quick look at what makes a recommendation email effective:
- Personalization: Generic requests are less impactful.
- Clarity: Be specific about what you need.
- Professionalism: Maintain a polite and respectful tone.
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter for a New Job Opportunity
Dear Professor Smith,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today with a request. I am applying for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name], and I believe your perspective on my skills and work ethic would be incredibly valuable for my application.
As you may recall, I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester, Year] semester, and I particularly enjoyed working on [Specific Project or Assignment]. I learned a great deal from your instruction, especially regarding [Specific Skill or Concept].
The deadline for submitting recommendation letters is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you would be comfortable writing a letter of recommendation for me, and if there is any further information I can provide to assist you.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter for Graduate School Admission
Dear Dr. Jones,
I trust this message finds you in good health. I am reaching out to you today to humbly ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for my graduate school applications. I am applying for the [Program Name] program at [University Name], and I greatly admire your expertise in [Professor's Area of Expertise].
During my time as your research assistant from [Start Date] to [End Date], I gained invaluable experience in [Specific Research Area]. I particularly appreciated your guidance on [Specific Task or Project].
The application deadline for this program is [Date]. I have attached my CV, statement of purpose, and the program details for your review. I would be happy to discuss my aspirations and qualifications with you further at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter for a Scholarship Application
Dear Ms. Davis,
Hello Ms. Davis, I hope you're having a productive week. I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. This scholarship is specifically for students pursuing [Field of Study], which aligns perfectly with my academic goals.
I had the pleasure of working with you as a volunteer at [Organization Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I particularly valued your mentorship during the [Specific Project or Event], where I honed my skills in [Skill Developed].
The deadline for the scholarship application is [Date]. I have enclosed my application essay and the scholarship criteria for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to support my application with a letter, and if you require any additional information from my end.
Thank you for your support.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter from a Former Supervisor
Dear Mr. Lee,
Good morning Mr. Lee. I hope you are doing well. I am writing to you today to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. I am currently applying for a [New Role Title] position at [New Company Name], and I believe your insights from my time as [Your Previous Role] at [Previous Company Name] would be very beneficial.
During my tenure from [Start Date] to [End Date], I was responsible for [Key Responsibilities], and I always appreciated your feedback on my performance, particularly concerning [Specific Area of Improvement/Strength].
The deadline for this application is [Date]. I have attached my updated resume and the job description. Please let me know if you are able to provide a letter of recommendation and if there's anything else you need from me.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter from a Colleague (for promotion)
Hi Sarah,
I hope you're having a great day! I'm writing to you because I'm applying for the [New Position Title] role within our team, and I was hoping you might be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me.
We've worked closely together on several projects, including [Project A] and [Project B], and I've always valued your perspective and collaboration. I believe your firsthand experience of my contributions to these initiatives would be very impactful.
The internal application deadline is [Date]. I've attached the job description. Please let me know if you're able to do this, and if there's anything I can provide to make it easier for you.
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter from a Mentor
Dear Mr. Chen,
Hello Mr. Chen, I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today to ask for your support in the form of a letter of recommendation. I am pursuing a [Specific Goal, e.g., new career path in X], and I believe your guidance and insights as my mentor would be invaluable.
I've always appreciated your advice on [Specific Area of Advice], and our discussions about [Topic of Discussion] have been particularly influential in shaping my aspirations. I recall our conversation about [Specific Memory] which was very helpful.
The deadline for this opportunity is [Date]. I have attached a brief outline of my goals and relevant materials. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me, and if you have any questions.
Thank you for your continued support.
Best,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter for a Volunteer Position
Dear Ms. Garcia,
Hi Ms. Garcia, I hope you're doing well. I'm applying for a volunteer position at [Organization Name], focusing on [Specific Area of Volunteer Work], and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me.
As you know, I participated in the [Event or Program] at [Previous Organization] where you supervised me. I learned a lot about [Skill Learned] during that time, and I always appreciated your leadership.
The deadline for the volunteer application is [Date]. I've attached the volunteer role description. Please let me know if you're able to support my application.
Thank you for your consideration!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter for a Conference Presentation
Dear Dr. Kim,
Greetings Dr. Kim. I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my abstract submission for the [Conference Name] conference. My proposed presentation is on [Topic of Presentation].
As my supervisor during my research on [Research Project Name], you were instrumental in guiding my work. I particularly benefited from your insights into [Specific Research Aspect], which was crucial for the findings I intend to present.
The abstract submission deadline is [Date]. I have attached a draft of my abstract and the conference guidelines. Please let me know if you would be comfortable providing a letter of recommendation.
Thank you for your support.
Regards,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter for a Postdoctoral Position
Dear Professor Evans,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you today with a request for a letter of recommendation for my application to postdoctoral positions in [Field of Study]. I am particularly interested in opportunities at [Example University/Institution 1] and [Example University/Institution 2].
During my PhD research under your supervision, I successfully completed [Key Research Achievement 1] and [Key Research Achievement 2]. Your mentorship was invaluable in developing my skills in [Specific Skill 1] and [Specific Skill 2]. I have attached my CV and a summary of my research interests.
The general deadline for applications is [Date Range]. I would be very grateful if you could consider writing a letter of recommendation for me. Please let me know if you have any questions or require further information.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, a "Sample Email Asking for Recommendation Letter" is a valuable tool, but it's only the starting point. By personalizing your request, providing all necessary information, and showing genuine appreciation for your recommender's time and effort, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving a strong and supportive letter that will help you achieve your goals.