Securing a recommendation letter can feel like a crucial step in many life events, whether you're applying for a new job, a college program, or even a scholarship. Crafting an effective request is key to ensuring you get a strong, supportive letter. This article will guide you through creating a perfect Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter, providing you with the knowledge and examples to approach your recommenders with confidence.
Why a Well-Crafted Request Matters
When you're asking someone to vouch for your skills and character, the way you ask can significantly impact the outcome. A generic or last-minute request might lead to a rushed or less enthusiastic letter. On the other hand, a thoughtful and well-prepared request demonstrates your respect for the recommender's time and effort, and provides them with all the necessary information to write a compelling letter. The importance of a detailed and polite request cannot be overstated, as it helps your recommender highlight your best qualities.
- Provides necessary context for the recommender.
- Ensures the recommender has enough time to write.
- Shows your professionalism and organization.
To make your request as effective as possible, consider including:
- Clear identification of who you are and your relationship to them.
- The purpose of the recommendation (e.g., job application, graduate school).
- Specific details about the opportunity (deadlines, program name, job title).
- Relevant documents to assist them, such as your resume, personal statement, or the job description.
A table can also be a helpful way to organize key information:
| Information Needed | Details to Provide |
|---|---|
| Opportunity Type | e.g., "Master's in Computer Science" or "Marketing Manager Position" |
| Institution/Company | Name of the university or company |
| Application Deadline | Specific date the recommendation is due |
| Submission Method | e.g., Online portal, email, mail |
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter for a Job Application
Dear [Recommender's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe my time working with you as [Your Role/Relationship] from [Start Date] to [End Date] provided me with valuable experience in [mention 1-2 key skills or accomplishments relevant to the job].
The deadline for this application is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the job description for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to provide a recommendation by this date. I would be happy to discuss this further with you at your convenience.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter for Graduate School
Dear Professor [Recommender's Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Program Name] Master's program at [University Name]. I truly valued your guidance and instruction in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year], and I believe your insights into my academic abilities would be highly beneficial to my application.
The application deadline is [Date]. I have attached my academic transcript, resume, and a draft of my personal statement for your review. Please let me know if you feel comfortable writing a strong letter of recommendation for me by this deadline. I am available to meet if you would like to discuss my goals or your experiences further.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter for a Scholarship
Dear [Contact Person's Name/Scholarship Committee],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I am applying for this scholarship to help fund my studies in [Your Field of Study] at [Your University/College].
My involvement in [mention a relevant activity, e.g., your volunteer work, a project] under your supervision during [timeframe] has been a significant part of my growth, and I believe you can speak to my dedication and qualifications.
The deadline for submitting recommendations is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief outline of the scholarship's criteria. Please let me know if you are able to support my application with a recommendation by the given date. I am happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter from a Former Supervisor
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I'm writing to you today as I am applying for a [New Role/Opportunity] and would be incredibly grateful if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me. My experience as [Your Role] at [Previous Company Name] under your supervision from [Start Date] to [End Date] was invaluable, and I particularly learned a great deal about [mention a skill or aspect of your work].
The deadline for this is [Date]. I have attached my updated resume and a description of the [New Role/Opportunity] for your reference. Please let me know if this is something you would be able to do. I am happy to provide any further details you might require.
Thank you for your time and support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter from a Professor for a Specific Project
Dear Professor [Recommender's Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for the [Project Name] research project. I was a student in your [Course Name] class in [Semester/Year], and I greatly appreciated your insights on [mention a specific topic or concept].
The deadline for applications is [Date]. I've attached my resume and a brief summary of the research project for your review. Your perspective on my [mention relevant skills like analytical abilities, problem-solving] would be very valuable. Please let me know if you feel comfortable writing a supportive letter by the deadline.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter for an Internship
Dear [Supervisor's Name],
I hope you are doing well.
I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation as I apply for an internship position at [Company Name] within the [Department/Field] team. My experience as a [Your Role] at [Your Current/Previous Company or Volunteer Organization] under your leadership has been instrumental in developing my skills in [mention 1-2 relevant skills].
The deadline for this internship application is [Date]. I have attached my resume and the internship description for your convenience. I would be very grateful if you could provide a recommendation by this date. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any further information.
Thank you for your time and support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter from a Colleague (for a leadership role)
Dear [Colleague's Name],
I hope you're having a good week.
I'm applying for a [Leadership Position] at [Company Name], and I was hoping you might be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. I've always admired your perspective, and given our collaborative work on [mention a project or initiative], I believe you can speak to my leadership potential and ability to [mention a specific skill like team collaboration or problem-solving].
The application deadline is [Date]. I've attached my resume and the details of the leadership role. Please let me know if you'd be able to provide a recommendation. I'm happy to discuss this further with you.
Thanks so much for considering this.
Best,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter from a Mentor
Dear [Mentor's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation as I apply for [Opportunity Name, e.g., a fellowship, a new career path]. Your mentorship over the past [Duration] has been incredibly valuable to me, especially regarding [mention a specific area of growth or learning].
The deadline for this is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a description of the opportunity. I would be deeply appreciative if you would be willing to provide a recommendation that highlights my [mention specific qualities, e.g., dedication, initiative, growth]. Please let me know if this is something you are able to do and if you require any further information.
Thank you for your continued guidance and support.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter from a Volunteer Coordinator
Dear [Coordinator's Name],
I hope you are doing well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Opportunity Name, e.g., a job, a program] that requires a recommendation based on my volunteer experience. My time volunteering with [Organization Name] as a [Your Role] from [Start Date] to [End Date] was a highly rewarding experience, and I believe you can attest to my commitment and skills during that period.
The deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief overview of the opportunity. Please let me know if you would be able to provide a recommendation by the specified date. I am happy to provide any additional context you might need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
By utilizing these examples and understanding the key elements of a strong request, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving a positive and impactful recommendation letter. Remember to always be polite, provide ample notice, and equip your recommender with all the necessary information. A well-crafted Sample Email Requesting Recommendation Letter is the first step towards a successful application.