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How to Ask for a Recommendation Letter via Email: A Polite and Effective Guide


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Requesting a letter of recommendation is a crucial component of job applications, graduate school, and professional development. It can be a daunting task to approach someone for this vital document. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to craft a compelling email request for a letter of recommendation, outlining the steps involved, email etiquette, and examples for diverse situations.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation via Email

Crafting a well-written email to request a letter of recommendation is crucial for making a positive impression and increasing your chances of success. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you structure your email effectively:

Subject Line

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Keep it brief and informative, indicating your purpose: “Request for Letter of Recommendation for [Position or Program].”

Salutation and Opening Paragraph

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Address the recipient by their name and title (if known). Start with a polite and respectful greeting, such as “Dear Dr. Anderson.”

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Introduce yourself and state your name and connection to the recipient (if any).

Body of Email

* Explain your purpose:

Clearly state that you are requesting a letter of recommendation for a specific position or program.

* Justification:

Briefly explain your qualifications and why you believe the recipient is well-suited to provide a strong recommendation.

* Mention the timeframe:

Specify the deadline for submission and indicate if there are any additional requirements.

* Provide instructions:

  • Clearly state where to submit the letter (e.g., email, postal address).
  • Include the name of the organization or institution receiving the letter.

* Express gratitude:

Thank the recipient for their consideration and time.

Call to Action

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Politely ask for a response, even if they are unable to provide a recommendation.

Closing

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Thank the recipient again for their time and consideration.

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Use a professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”

Attachments (Optional)

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Sample Requests for Letters of Recommendation

Request for Letter of Recommendation for Job Application

Dear [Recipient Name],

I hope this email finds you well.

I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my job application to [Company Name]. I have been working under your supervision at [Company Name] for the past [Number] years as a [Your Position].

During my time here, I have consistently exceeded expectations in my role and have taken on additional responsibilities with enthusiasm. I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to [Company Name] and believe that your letter of recommendation would greatly support my application.

Request for Letter of Recommendation for Promotion

Dear [Recipient Name],

I hope you are having a productive day.

I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation for my promotion to [Position Name]. I have been with [Company Name] for [Number] years, and I believe that I have consistently exceeded expectations in my current role.

I have attached a copy of my resume to this email for your reference. I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in the [Position Name] role, and I would be honored to receive your support in my promotion.

Request for Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship

Dear Professor [Recipient Name],

I hope this email finds you well.

I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide me with a letter of recommendation for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I am a full-time student at [University Name], majoring in [Major].

I have been a student in your [Course Name] class for the past semester, and I have consistently earned high grades. I am also an active member of the [Club Name] club on campus.

Request for Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write me a letter of recommendation for my application to [Graduate School Name]. I am applying to the [Program Name] program, and I believe that your letter would be a valuable asset to my application.

I took [Course Name] with you during my sophomore year at [University Name], and I received an A in the course. I also served as a teaching assistant for your [Course Name] class the following semester.

Request for Letter of Recommendation for Internship

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Internship Name] internship program at [Company Name]. I am a junior at [University Name], majoring in [Major].

I have worked as your research assistant for the past [Number] semesters, and I have gained valuable experience in [Skills]. I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in the [Internship Name] internship program, and I believe that your letter of recommendation would greatly support my application.

Request for Letter of Recommendation for Volunteering

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide me with a letter of recommendation for my volunteer work with [Organization Name]. I have been volunteering with [Organization Name] for the past [Number] months, and I have enjoyed my experience working with the [Team Name] team.

During my time with [Organization Name], I have [Responsibilities]. I am proud of the work that I have done, and I believe that your letter of recommendation would be a valuable asset to my application.

Request for Letter of Recommendation for a Colleague

Dear [Recipient Name],

I hope this email finds you well.

I am writing to request a letter of recommendation on behalf of my colleague, [Colleague Name]. [Colleague Name] has been working at [Company Name] for the past [Number] years as a [Position Name], and I have had the pleasure of working closely with them for the past [Number] months.

During our time working together, [Colleague Name] has consistently exceeded expectations in their role. They are a highly skilled and motivated individual who is always willing to go the extra mile.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation via Email

How do you write an email to request a letter of recommendation?

Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation

Dear [Recipient Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you in support of my application for [position] at [company].

I have worked under your supervision during the past [number] years at [company], and during this time, I have gained valuable experience and skills that I believe would make me a valuable asset to your team.

I am particularly proud of my work on the [project name] project, where I was responsible for [list of responsibilities]. I am confident that this project demonstrates my [list of skills and qualities].

I understand that you are busy, so I want to thank you for your time and consideration. If you are unable to provide a letter of recommendation, I would be happy to seek a recommendation from another supervisor.

Thank you again for your support. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

What should you include in a request for a letter of recommendation email?

Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [position] at [company].

Please include the following information in the letter:

  • A brief description of my role and responsibilities under your supervision
  • Specific examples of my work performance that demonstrate my skills and qualities
  • A statement of your overall assessment of my work

How do you follow up on a request for a letter of recommendation?

Subject: Follow-Up on Letter of Recommendation Request

Dear [Recipient Name],

I hope you are having a great day.

I am writing to follow up on my request for a letter of recommendation. I understand that you are busy, so I wanted to check in with you to see if you have had a chance to complete the letter.

If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to ask.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Thanks for taking the time to read this guide on how to email for a letter of recommendation. We hope you found it helpful! If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. And remember, practice makes perfect. The more you put yourself out there and ask for letters of recommendation, the easier and more confident you’ll become. Good luck! We’ll be here if you ever need us again.

Attachment Description When to Include
Resume Provides additional details on your qualifications. If you have not recently submitted your resume to the recipient.
Transcripts Shows your academic achievements. For academic recommendations or when applicable to the position.

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