Asking for a letter of recommendation can be a daunting task. Whether you are applying for a job or a graduate program, knowing how to write an effective email requesting a recommendation can make all the difference. But where do you start? Look no further. In this article, we will provide you with a letter of recommendation request email sample that you can use as a starting point. Not only that, but we will also walk you through the necessary steps to write a compelling email that will leave a lasting impression on your recommender. And if you need more samples, we’ve got you covered. You can find additional examples online and customize them according to your needs. So, sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in.
The Best Structure for Letter of Recommendation Request Email Sample
Asking for a letter of recommendation from someone can feel a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to approach the request in a thoughtful and professional manner. Here’s a sample email structure that should help you get started:
Introduction
Start by introducing yourself and reminding the person who you are. If you haven’t spoken to them in a while, it’s a good idea to briefly update them on what you’ve been up to. Let them know that you’re applying for (whatever it is you’re applying for) and that they came to mind as someone who might be able to write a strong letter of recommendation for you.
The Request
Be clear about what you’re asking for and why it’s important to you. Let the person know what the deadline is for the letter of recommendation and if there are any specific requirements (e.g. the letter needs to be on official letterhead). It’s also a good idea to express your gratitude in advance and let the person know that you understand how busy they are.
The Details
Provide the person with any necessary details they’ll need to write the letter, such as specifics about the program you’re applying to or the skills/experiences you’d like them to highlight. It’s also okay to offer to provide them with additional information if they need it.
Closing
End the email with a clear thank you and let the person know that you’re looking forward to hearing from them. Also, once you receive the letter, be sure to follow up with a thank you note.
In general, keep the email short and to the point. Remember, the person is doing you a favor, so it’s important to be respectful of their time. By following this structure, you’ll be able to request a letter of recommendation in a professional and considerate manner.
Letter of Recommendation Requests Email Sample
Job Application Recommendation Request
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a job at [company/organization] and I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a letter of recommendation.
I believe that my skills and experience would be a great asset to the company, and a recommendation from you would go a long way in supporting my application. I have listed some of my most relevant accomplishments and responsibilities below, so you can address them in the letter:
- [Accomplishment/Responsibility 1]
- [Accomplishment/Responsibility 2]
- [Accomplishment/Responsibility 3]
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you need any more information from me, or if there is anything else I can do to assist you in writing the letter.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Graduate School Recommendation Request
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for graduate school at [university/college] and I was wondering if you would be willing to write me a letter of recommendation.
I believe that my academic achievements and personal qualities would make me an excellent candidate for the program, and a recommendation from you would help me stand out among the other applicants. I have attached my resume and personal statement to this email, so you can have more information about my background and aspirations. If there is anything else that you need from me, please let me know.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Academic Scholarship Recommendation Request
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for an academic scholarship at [university/college] and I was wondering if you could write me a letter of recommendation.
I believe that my academic achievements and leadership skills would make me a strong candidate for the scholarship. A recommendation letter from you would greatly enhance my chances of being considered for the award. I have attached my academic transcript and a list of my extracurricular activities to this email, so you can have a better idea of my performance and interests. If you have any questions or need further information, please let me know.
Thank you for your time and support. I appreciate your help.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Summer Internship Recommendation Request
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for a summer internship at [company/organization] and I was wondering if you could write me a letter of recommendation.
I am excited about this opportunity to gain practical experience in my field of interest, and I believe that your endorsement of my skills and character would be a valuable addition to my application. I have attached my resume and a cover letter to this email, so you can have more context about my qualifications and goals. If there is anything else I can provide or do to facilitate the process, please let me know.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing back from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Recommendation Request
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for [purpose of application, e.g., a rental contract, volunteer position, adoption process], and I was wondering if you could provide me with a character reference.
I have known you for [time frame] and I respect your judgment and integrity. I believe that your personal recommendation would accurately reflect my personality traits and behavior, and would help me gain the trust and confidence of the [landlord, organization, agency] in charge. If you would be willing to write me a letter of reference, I would greatly appreciate it.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if you need any more information or if you have any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Transfer School Recommendation Request
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am transferring from [current university/college] to [target university/college], and I was wondering if you could write me a letter of recommendation.
I had the privilege of studying with you in [course/class] and I learned a lot from your teaching style and academic rigor. I would greatly appreciate it if you could describe in your letter my academic potential and my positive contributions to the class. I have attached a copy of my transcript and a list of my extracurricular activities to this email, so you can have a better sense of my academic profile. If you need any more information or if you have any suggestions, please let me know.
Thank you for your help and support. I remain grateful for your mentorship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Professional Networking Recommendation Request
Dear [Name],
I hope this email reaches you at a good time. I am reaching out to you because I am in the process of [career transition, job search, new business venture, etc.] and I think that your recommendation and network could be of great help to me.
I have admired your work and your expertise in [field/industry], and I would be honored if you could write me a professional recommendation or introduce me to some of your colleagues or partners. I believe that there may be opportunities for collaboration or mentorship that would benefit both of us, and I am open to discussing them further if you are interested.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing back from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for Requesting a Letter of Recommendation Email Sample
Asking for a letter of recommendation can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and etiquette, it can be a successful endeavor. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when crafting your email request:
- Be clear and specific about what you’re asking for. State the purpose of the letter and include any relevant details, like the specific job or scholarship you’re applying for and the deadline.
- Remind the person of your relationship and highlight any specific accomplishments or experiences that you hope they will highlight in their letter.
- Gently remind them of your timeline and provide plenty of notice – at least 2-3 weeks – before the letter is due.
- Be respectful of the person’s time and workload. Don’t assume that they’ll be able to write the letter or that it will be a simple task for them. If they are unable to write the letter or need more information, be understanding and flexible.
- Show gratitude and offer to help in any way you can. Express how much you appreciate their support and offer to provide any additional information or materials that might be helpful.
When it comes to actually writing the email, keep it short and to the point. Here’s a sample template you can use:
Dear [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request a letter of recommendation for [purpose]. I greatly value your opinion and expertise, and I think your support would be invaluable in my [job/scholarship/etc.] application.
Could you please write a letter of recommendation addressing [specific topic or accomplishment you hope they will highlight]? The letter is due on [date], so I would appreciate it if you could complete it by [date 2-3 weeks before deadline] at the latest.
If there’s any additional information you need or if it’s not possible for you to write the letter, please let me know. I’m happy to provide more information or connect you with someone else who might be able to help.
Thank you so much for your time and support. I truly appreciate it.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Remember, a well-crafted request that shows respect and gratitude can go a long way in securing a strong letter of recommendation. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions: Letter of Recommendation Request Email Sample
What is a letter of recommendation request email?
A letter of recommendation request email is a formal email request sent by a person to another person asking for a letter of recommendation or reference.
When do I need to use a letter of recommendation request email?
You need to use a letter of recommendation request email when you are applying for a job, scholarship, or any other opportunity that requires a reference or letter of recommendation from a professor, employer, or other professional whom you have worked with.
What should I include in a letter of recommendation request email?
You should include your introduction, the purpose of the email, what you are applying for, your qualifications, the deadline for submission, and a thank you message in a letter of recommendation request email.
How should I format my letter of recommendation request email?
Your letter of recommendation request email should be formatted in a professional and formal tone. It should have a clear and concise subject line, an appropriate salutation, a proper introduction, a main message, and a polite and professional closing.
How long should a letter of recommendation request email be?
A letter of recommendation request email should be short and to the point. It should not exceed one page or more than 250 words.
When is the best time to send a letter of recommendation request email?
The best time to send a letter of recommendation request email is at least two to three weeks before the deadline for submission. This allows the person whom you are requesting a recommendation to have enough time to write and submit the letter.
What if the person I am requesting a recommendation from does not respond to my email?
If the person does not respond to your email, you should follow up with a polite reminder email a week after the initial email. If you still do not receive a response, you can try calling them or sending a physical mail.
How should I thank the person who writes a recommendation letter for me?
You should thank the person who writes a recommendation letter for you by sending them a thank you email or note. You should also acknowledge their help and support and keep them updated on your progress.
What if the person I am requesting a recommendation from declines my request?
If the person declines your request, you should thank them for their time and consider requesting a recommendation from someone else. Do not take it personally and remain professional and polite.
Thanks for Checking Out Our Letter of Recommendation Request Email Sample
We hope that our sample email has given you some inspiration for drafting your own letter of recommendation request. Remember to keep it professional, polite, and to the point, and don’t forget to thank your recommender for their time and effort. If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other resources and articles on all things career-related. Thanks again for reading, and please visit us again soon!