Harvard Reference Letter Email Request Etiquette: A Comprehensive Guide
Source prepory.com
A reference letter is a document written by someone who knows a job candidate and is willing to attest to their skills, abilities, and work ethic. Reference letters are often requested by potential employers as part of the hiring process. Harvard University provides a reference letter service to its students and alumni. The service provides templates and guidance on how to write a reference letter. Students can also request reference letters from their professors, advisors, and other individuals who are familiar with their work.
Email Structure: Reference Letter Request
Salutation:
Hey [Recipient’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
Introduction:
I’m writing to kindly request a reference letter from you for [Your Name]. I’m applying for [Job Title] at [Company Name], and your positive feedback would be invaluable to my application.
Contribution Highlights:
- List specific accomplishments or contributions [Your Name] made during their time working with you.
- Quantify results whenever possible, using numbers or metrics.
- Highlight [Your Name]’s skills, abilities, and work ethic that are relevant to the position they’re applying for.
Duration and Responsibilities:
- Clearly state the duration of [Your Name]’s employment under your supervision.
- Briefly outline their primary responsibilities and any leadership or management roles they held.
Letter Content Suggestions:
| Section | Suggested Content |
|---|---|
| Opening Paragraph | State the purpose of the letter and identify the job position [Your Name] is applying for. |
| Body Paragraph(s) | Highlight [Your Name]’s strengths, skills, and contributions as outlined in your email. |
| Closing Paragraph | Summarize [Your Name]’s qualifications and recommend them for the position. |
Request Details:
- Indicate the deadline for the reference letter, if any.
- Provide any specific instructions or requirements the employer has regarding the letter.
Appreciation:
Thank you so much for considering my request. Your time and effort are greatly appreciated.
Additional Information:
- If necessary, include any links to [Your Name]’s resume or LinkedIn profile for additional context.
- Let the recipient know that you’re available to provide further information or answer any questions they may have.
7 Reference Letter Email Requests with a Harvard Flair
Request for an Employment Reference
Dear Professor [Professor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of reference for my application to [Company Name]. I am a [Your Year] graduate of Harvard University, where I majored in [Your Major].
During my time at Harvard, I was fortunate to have you as my professor for [Course Name]. Your expertise in [Course Topic] was invaluable to my intellectual development, and I am grateful for the guidance and mentorship you provided.
In my role at [Previous Company], I have consistently exceeded expectations in [Responsibilities]. I am confident that my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to [Company Name].
Request for an Academic Reference
Dear Dr. [Professor’s Name],
I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation for my application to the [Degree Program] at [University Name]. I am a [Your Year] graduate of Harvard College, where I majored in [Your Major].
Your insights into [Research Topic] have been particularly influential in my decision to pursue this academic path. In your seminar, I was challenged to think critically and developed a strong foundation in [Research Methods].
I am eager to continue my research in [Research Topic] and believe that your support would be instrumental in my success.
Request for a Scholarship Reference
Dear Dean [Dean’s Name],
I hope you are having a productive day. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my scholarship application to [Scholarship Name]. I am a [Your Year] graduate of Harvard University, where I graduated [Cum Laude/Magna Cum Laude/Summa Cum Laude].
As a student at Harvard, I maintained a strong academic record and was actively involved in [Extracurricular Activities]. Your guidance and support as [Dean’s Title] have been instrumental in my academic and personal growth.
I am committed to pursuing my studies in [Field of Study] and believe that this scholarship would enable me to fully focus on my research.
Request for a Character Reference
Dear Professor [Professor’s Name],
I am reaching out to request a character reference for my application to [Organization/Program Name]. I am a [Your Year] graduate of Harvard Law School.
Your mentorship and guidance during my time as a law student were invaluable. Your high ethical standards and commitment to justice have left a lasting impact on me.
I believe that you can provide a strong and positive character reference that will highlight my integrity, work ethic, and dedication to my community.
Request for a Reference from a Supervisor
Dear Mr./Ms. [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of reference for my application to [Company Name]. I have worked under your supervision as [Your Position] at [Previous Company] for [Number] years.
During my tenure at [Previous Company], I have consistently exceeded expectations in all aspects of my role. I have a strong track record of [Achievements].
I am confident that my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to [Company Name], and I am eager to contribute to their success.
Request for a Reference from a Colleague
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I trust you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide me with a letter of reference for my application to [Company Name].
We have worked closely together on [Project/Task]. I have always appreciated your [Colleague’s Qualities].
I am confident that my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to [Company Name], and I would be grateful if you could provide a strong recommendation.
Request for a Reference from an Acquaintance
Dear [Acquaintance’s Name],
I hope you are having a great day. I am writing to request a letter of reference for my application to [Company Name].
Though we have not worked closely together, I have had the opportunity to observe your [Acquaintance’s Qualities] on several occasions. I believe that you can provide a valuable perspective on my work ethic and character.
I would be grateful if you could provide me with a letter of reference that highlights these qualities.
Reference Letter Email Request Harvard
Question 1: What should be included in a reference letter request email?
Answer:
The reference letter request email should include the following information:
- Subject: A concise description of the request, such as "Reference Letter Request for [Name of Applicant]"
- Body:
- Date and location of the meeting or event where the request was discussed
- Name and contact information of the person making the request
- Applicant’s full name and email address
- Position or role for which the reference letter is needed
- Deadline for submitting the reference letter
- Relationship between the person making the request and the applicant (e.g., supervisor, colleague, mentor)
Question 2: What is the appropriate tone and language for a reference letter request email?
Answer:
The tone of the reference letter request email should be formal and professional. It should be written in a polite and respectful manner. The language should be clear and concise, using specific examples to highlight the applicant’s qualifications and skills.
Question 3: How to follow up on a reference letter request email?
Answer:
After sending the reference letter request email, follow up with the person you requested the letter from. This can be done via email or phone call. Be polite and express your appreciation for their time and effort. If the deadline approaches and you have not received the letter, reach out again to remind the individual and inquire about the status of the request.
Well, there you have it! Thanks for sticking with me until the end of this short guide. I hope it helped you draft that killer reference letter request email that’ll get you that stellar reference you need. Don’t forget to drop by again soon for more helpful writing tips and tricks. Until next time, keep on writing!