Request Recommendation Letter Email: Crafting a Professional and Effective Message
Requesting a recommendation letter is a common practice when seeking new job opportunities. It can be a daunting task, but by following the right steps, you can ensure that you receive a strong letter that will help you stand out. In this article, we will provide you with a guide on how to write a successful request recommendation letter email, including tips on writing, formatting, and following up.
The Ultimate Guide to Structuring Your Recommendation Letter Request Email
When you’re applying for a job or scholarship, you’ll often need to ask someone to write you a recommendation letter. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a request email that will make it easy for your recommenders to say yes.
1. Start with a strong subject line
Your subject line should be clear and concise, and it should let the recipient know what your email is about. For example, you could write:
Subject: Request for recommendation letter
2. Introduce yourself
In the first paragraph of your email, introduce yourself and explain why you’re writing. Be sure to mention the position or scholarship you’re applying for.
Dear [Recommender’s name],
My name is [Your name] and I’m a [Your year] at [Your university]. I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write me a recommendation letter for the [Position or scholarship] position that I am applying for at [Company or organization].
3. Explain why you’re asking this person
In the next paragraph, explain why you’re asking this particular person to write you a letter. Be specific about the qualities or experiences that make them a good choice for writing your letter.
I have been your student in the [Course name] class for the past [Number] semesters. I have always been impressed by your knowledge of the subject matter and your ability to communicate complex concepts in a clear and engaging way.
You have seen me overcome challenges, work hard in the face of adversity, and succeed in my academic and extracurricular endeavors. I believe that your recommendation would be a valuable asset to my application for the [Position or scholarship] position.
4. Provide details about the position or scholarship
In the next paragraph, provide some details about the position or scholarship you’re applying for. This will help the recommender understand what qualities and skills you need to highlight in the letter.
The [Position or scholarship] position that I am applying for is a [Position description]. The ideal candidate will have [Skills and qualities].
5. Request the letter
In the next paragraph, politely request the letter. Be sure to include a deadline, and let the recommender know if you need them to send the letter directly to the recipient.
I would be honored if you would write me a recommendation letter. The deadline for the application is [Deadline]. If you are able to write me a letter, please send it to [Recipient’s email address].
6. Thank the recommender
In the final paragraph, thank the recommender for their time and consideration.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate your support.
7. Proofread your email
Before you send your email, proofread it carefully for any errors. Make sure that your grammar and spelling are correct, and that your tone is polite and professional.
Table: Key Elements of a Recommendation Letter Request Email
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject line | Clear and concise, indicating the purpose of the email |
| Introduction | Introduces the sender and explains the reason for writing |
| Explanation of request | Provides specific reasons for asking the recipient to write the letter |
| Details about the position or scholarship | Provides information about the position or scholarship being applied for |
| Request for the letter | Politely requests the letter and includes a deadline |
| Thank you | Thanks the recommender for their time and consideration |
| Proofreading | Checks for errors in grammar, spelling, and tone |
Sample Request Recommendation Letter Emails for Various Reasons
Request for a Recommendation Letter for a Job Application
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a recommendation letter from you for my job application at [Company Name]. I have been working under your supervision as [Your Role] for the past [Number] years at [Organization Name].
Your insight into my work ethic, skills, and accomplishments would be invaluable to the hiring manager. I would be grateful if you could highlight my key strengths and contributions during my time working with you.
The deadline for the job application is [Date]. If possible, I would appreciate receiving the recommendation letter by [Date].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Request for a Recommendation Letter for Graduate School
Dear Professor [Recipient’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request a recommendation letter for my application to the [Program Name] at [University Name]. I was your student in [Course Name] during [Semester].
In your class, I was consistently impressed by your passion for the subject and your ability to engage your students. I am particularly interested in pursuing my studies in [Field of Study], and I believe that a recommendation from you would greatly support my application.
The deadline for the graduate program application is [Date]. I would be grateful if you could submit the recommendation letter by [Date].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I am confident that with your support, I will be able to pursue my academic goals successfully.
Request for a Recommendation Letter for a Scholarship
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name] and I am a [Year] year student at [University Name]. I am writing to request a recommendation letter from you for my application to the [Scholarship Name].
I have been working hard to maintain a high GPA and I am actively involved in several extracurricular activities on campus. I am passionate about [Academic Pursuit or Community Involvement] and this scholarship would provide me with the necessary financial support to continue my studies.
In your letter, I would appreciate it if you could highlight my academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and my commitment to [Academic Pursuit or Community Involvement].
The deadline for the scholarship application is [Date]. Please let me know if you are able to write me a recommendation letter by [Date].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Request for a Recommendation Letter for an Award
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I hope you are having a productive day. My name is [Your Name] and I am a [Year] year student at [University Name]. I am writing to request a recommendation letter from you for my application to the [Award Name].
I have been nominated for this award based on my academic achievements, leadership skills, and commitment to [University or Community]. I am honored to be considered for this recognition and believe that a strong recommendation letter from you would significantly enhance my application.
In your letter, I would be grateful if you could focus on my academic performance, extracurricular activities, and my contributions to the university or community.
The deadline for the award application is [Date]. I would appreciate it if you could submit the recommendation letter by [Date].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I am confident that you can provide a powerful recommendation that will support my application.
Request for a Recommendation Letter for a Promotion
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to request a recommendation letter from you as I am applying for the position of [Position Name] within our company. I have been working under your supervision as [Your Role] for the past [Number] years.
During my time in this role, I have consistently exceeded expectations and taken on additional responsibilities. I am confident that I possess the skills and experience necessary to be successful in the [Position Name] role.
I would appreciate it if you could highlight my key accomplishments, leadership abilities, and contributions to the team in your recommendation letter.
The deadline for the internal promotion application is [Date]. I would be grateful if you could submit the recommendation letter by [Date].
Thank you for your support and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application with you further.
Request for a Recommendation Letter for a Volunteer Position
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to request a recommendation letter for a volunteer position at [Organization Name]. I have been a passionate advocate for [Cause] for many years and I am eager to contribute my time and skills to an organization that is making a difference.
During my time working with you at [Organization Name], I demonstrated a strong commitment to [Cause]. I am confident that I can bring the same level of dedication and enthusiasm to my volunteer role.
In your recommendation letter, I would appreciate it if you could highlight my skills, experience, and passion for [Cause].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Request for a Recommendation Letter for a Personal Loan
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a recommendation letter from you for my personal loan application. I have been your [Relationship to Recipient] for [Number] years and I have always valued your opinion and support.
I am applying for a personal loan to consolidate some high-interest debt and make a down payment on a new home. I am confident that I will be able to make the monthly payments on time and I would appreciate it if you could provide a recommendation letter to support my application.
In your letter, I would appreciate it if you could highlight my financial responsibility, work ethic, and character.
I understand that you are busy, so I would be grateful if you could let me know by [Date] if you are able to write me a recommendation letter.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
How to Write a Request Recommendation Letter Email
When should you request a recommendation letter via email?
A request recommendation letter email is an appropriate method to initiate a request for a letter of recommendation when you have a professional relationship with the individual you are requesting the letter from, but it is not feasible or convenient to make the request in person.
What should you include in a request recommendation letter email?
Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation for [Your Name]
Body:
- Salutation: Begin with a formal salutation, such as "Dear [Recipient Name]".
- Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state your purpose for writing, indicating that you are seeking a letter of recommendation for a specific position or opportunity.
- Explanation: Explain why you are requesting a letter of recommendation from this particular individual, highlighting your professional relationship and the specific qualities or skills that make them an ideal endorser.
- Details: Provide any necessary details about the position or opportunity you are applying for, including the deadline for submitting the letter.
- Request: Politely request the individual to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf.
- Attachments: If relevant, attach any documents that may support your request, such as a resume or a copy of the job description.
- Closing: End with a formal closing, such as "Thank you for your time and consideration" or "I look forward to hearing from you soon."
What is the proper etiquette for requesting a recommendation letter via email?
- Be polite and respectful: Use formal language and maintain a professional tone throughout the email.
- Be specific and clear: Indicate the purpose of your request and provide all necessary information.
- Be timely: Allow ample time for the individual to write the letter of recommendation.
- Follow up: If you do not receive a response within a reasonable amount of time, follow up with a brief email or phone call.
Cheers for hanging out with me till the end! I appreciate you taking the time to read this. If you’re still curious about writing recommendation letters, feel free to swing by again later. I’ll be here with more tips and tricks to help you craft letters that’ll leave a lasting impression. Until next time, keep on shining!