Email Sample: Asking for a Recommendation Letter | Tailored for Your Needs
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Crafting effective recommendation letter requests is crucial for securing strong references. Email remains a widely used channel for such requests, and understanding the structure of a successful email can enhance your chances of receiving positive responses. Whether you’re a
Crafting the Perfect Recommendation Letter Request Email
Asking for a recommendation letter can be a nerve-wracking task. But by following a well-structured email, you can increase your chances of receiving a positive response.
Subject Line:
Keep it concise and clear: “Recommendation Letter Request for [Your Name]”
Salutation:
- Use a formal salutation, such as “Dear [Recommender’s Name]”.
- If you know the recommender well, you can use a more personal salutation, such as “Hi [Recommender’s Nickname]”.
Introduction:
State your name and briefly remind the recommender who you are. Explain why you’re contacting them and that you’re requesting a recommendation letter.
Specifics of the Request:
- State the specific role or program for which you need the letter.
- Provide the deadline for submitting the letter.
- If possible, attach or link to the application materials.
Why You’re a Good Candidate:
Highlight your relevant skills and experience that make you a strong candidate for the role or program.
Timeline and Follow-Up:
State when you would like the letter to be completed and how you will follow up with them.
Gratitude and Closing:
- Express your gratitude for the recommender’s time and consideration.
- Thank them in advance for their support.
- Use a formal closing, such as “Sincerely,” or “Best regards”.
Optional Elements:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Attachment | Attach a copy of your resume or CV to provide additional information. |
| Personal Connection | If you have a personal connection with the recommender, mention it briefly. |
| Example Letter | Consider providing an example letter draft to guide the recommender. |
7 Sample Request for Recommendation Letter Emails
1. Graduating Student Requesting Letter for Graduate School Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you in good spirits. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester Year]. I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation for my graduate school application to [Graduate School Name].
In your class, I consistently exceeded expectations, earning an A+ grade. Your challenging curriculum and insightful lectures fostered my passion for [Field of Study]. I am particularly proud of my research paper, which explored the topic of [Topic] in great detail.
I believe that your recommendation would be invaluable in my application. Your insights into my academic abilities, work ethic, and potential would greatly strengthen my chances of acceptance.
Thank you for considering my request. I would be happy to meet with you at your convenience to discuss my application further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Job Applicant Requesting Letter from Previous Supervisor
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to the position of [Position Name] at [Company Name].
I worked under your supervision as [Your Position] at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During my time there, I consistently exceeded expectations, receiving excellent performance reviews.
In my role, I was responsible for [List of responsibilities]. I am particularly proud of my accomplishments in [Specific accomplishments].
I believe that your recommendation would be invaluable in my job application. Your insights into my work ethic, skills, and potential would greatly enhance my chances of being selected for this role.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Volunteer Requesting Letter for Scholarship Application
Dear [Organization Contact Name],
I hope this email finds you in good health. My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my scholarship application to [Scholarship Name].
I have been an active volunteer with your organization for the past [Number] years, and I have consistently exceeded expectations in my role as [Volunteer Position]. I am particularly proud of my contributions to [Specific initiatives or events].
In addition to my volunteer work, I am a dedicated student with a strong academic record. I am pursuing a degree in [Field of Study] at [University Name], and I maintain a GPA of [GPA].
I believe that your recommendation would greatly enhance my application for this scholarship. Your insights into my character, work ethic, and potential would demonstrate my commitment to [Scholarship’s Mission].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Business Partner Requesting Letter for Professional Reference
Dear [Business Partner’s Name],
I hope this email finds you in good spirits. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my professional website reference page.
We have worked closely together on [Project Name] for the past [Number] months, and I have been consistently impressed with your [Positive qualities or contributions]. I believe that your insights into my professional abilities and work ethic would be invaluable to potential clients or employers.
Specifically, I would appreciate a letter that highlights the following:
- [List of specific skills or attributes]
- [List of key accomplishments or contributions]
- [Your overall assessment of my work]
Thank you for considering my request. I would be happy to provide you with any additional information or context that you may need.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
5. Employee Requesting Letter for Promotion or Transfer
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 the [Position Name] promotion/transfer.
I have been with the company for [Number] years as [Your Position], and I have consistently exceeded expectations in my role. I have taken on additional responsibilities, mentored new employees, and made significant contributions to several key projects.
I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to be successful in the [Position Name] role. I am eager to take on new challenges and responsibilities, and I believe that this promotion/transfer would allow me to make a greater impact on the company.
I would appreciate a letter that highlights my:
- Technical abilities and knowledge
- Leadership and management skills
- Work ethic and commitment to the company
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my application with you further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
6. Colleague Requesting Letter for Award Nomination
Dear [Colleagues’s Name],
I hope this email finds you in good spirits. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my nomination for the [Award Name] award.
I have worked closely with you for [Number] years, and I have always been impressed by your [Positive qualities or contributions]. I believe that your insights into my character, work ethic, and accomplishments would greatly strengthen my nomination.
Specifically, I am being nominated for my work on [Specific accomplishments or initiatives]. I believe that my contributions have made a significant impact on the company and the industry as a whole.
I would appreciate a letter that highlights my:
- Professional expertise and knowledge
- Leadership and innovation
- Commitment to the company and industry
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would be happy to provide you with any additional information or context that you may need.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
7. Teacher Requesting Letter for Retirement Gift
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I hope this email finds you in good health. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to help my colleagues purchase a retirement gift for me.
I have worked as a teacher at [School Name] for the past [Number] years, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I have had the privilege of teaching and inspiring countless students, and I am proud of the impact I have made on their lives.
As I approach retirement, I would be truly honored to receive a gift that I can cherish and remember my time at [School Name]. I would appreciate a letter that highlights my:
- Dedication to my students and the profession
- Positive impact on the school community
- Exemplary teaching practices and leadership
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to receiving your letter and continuing our friendship in retirement.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Request a Letter of Recommendation via Email
Q: What should I include in a request for a letter of recommendation email?
A: When requesting a letter of recommendation via email, you should include the following:
- A polite subject line. The subject line should clearly state your purpose for writing, such as "Request for Letter of Recommendation."
- A formal greeting. Address the recipient by their full name and use a professional salutation such as "Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name."
- A brief introduction. Explain who you are and why you are requesting a letter of recommendation.
- Specific details about the job or program you are applying for. This will help the writer tailor the letter to your specific needs.
- A list of your accomplishments and skills. Highlight the qualities that make you a good candidate for the position or program.
- A statement of how the letter writer knows you. Explain your relationship to the writer, such as former supervisor, professor, or colleague.
- A request for a deadline: The letter writer will need time to write and review the letter.
- A polite closing. Thank the letter writer for their time and consideration.
Q: What is the appropriate tone to use in a request for a letter of recommendation email?
A: The tone of your email should be professional and respectful. Be clear and concise in your writing, and avoid using slang or informal language. It is also important to be polite and appreciative of the writer’s time and effort.
Q: How can I ensure that my request for a letter of recommendation is effective?
A: To increase your chances of getting a strong letter of recommendation, you can take the following steps:
- Choose the right letter writers. Ask people who know you well and can speak to your skills and abilities.
- Give the letter writer plenty of time. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for a letter.
- Provide the letter writer with all the necessary information. This includes your resume, transcripts, and any other relevant materials.
- Follow up with the letter writer. If you don’t receive a letter by the deadline, you can politely follow up with the writer to inquire about the status.
Thanks for taking on board some of my suggestions for your emails. I’m confident these tips will enable you to get more positive responses from your potential referees. If you do, please drop me a line to let me know how you get on. I’m always keen to hear how people are getting on. Otherwise, if you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch, and remember to check back here again soon as I regularly add new stuff to help you on your job hunt.