Getting into college or landing that dream job often requires a letter of recommendation. But how do you actually ask for one? This guide focuses on **How To Ask For A Letter Of Recommendation Email Sample**, providing you with the tools and examples to craft effective emails that get you the recommendations you need. We’ll walk through the process step-by-step, ensuring you know what to include and how to make your request stand out. Let’s get started!
Preparing to Ask for a Letter
Before you even type a single word in your email, there are a few things you need to do to set yourself up for success. This preparation is crucial for getting a positive response and a strong letter.
First, consider who you’re asking. Pick someone who knows you well and can speak to your abilities and character. Think about:
- Professors who taught courses you excelled in.
- Supervisors from previous jobs or internships.
- Mentors who have guided you.
Next, gather your materials. The easier you make it for the person writing the letter, the better. Provide them with the following:
- Your resume or CV (if you have one).
- A copy of your transcript (unofficial is usually fine).
- Information about the opportunity you’re applying for (job description, college application deadlines, etc.).
- A brief summary of your goals and why you’re a good fit.
This ensures the recommender has all the information they need to write a compelling letter, and increases your chances of getting a positive response. Consider the following information, which might be helpful in your email:
| Information | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Deadline | To ensure the letter is submitted on time |
| Format Requirements | To follow application guidelines |
| Application portal (if applicable) | To allow the recommender to submit the letter efficiently |
Email Example: Initial Request to a Professor
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Opportunity Name]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Name of College/Job/Program]. I really enjoyed your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year] semester and found your lectures on [Specific Topic] particularly inspiring. I believe your insights into my [Skills/Qualities] would be highly valuable to my application.
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. I have attached my resume and a brief description of the opportunity. I would also be happy to provide you with any additional information you might need, such as my transcript or a personal statement.
Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me by [Date - give them a reasonable timeframe to respond, e.g., one week]. I understand you are very busy, and I completely understand if you are unable to do so. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Email Example: Requesting a Letter from a Former Employer
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Job Application Name]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for a job application. I thoroughly enjoyed my time working at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date], and I believe my experience as a [Your Role] would be beneficial in this new role.
I’m applying for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The job description and my resume are attached for your review. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date].
During my time at [Company Name], I was responsible for [List 2-3 key responsibilities or accomplishments]. I would be grateful if you could highlight my skills in [Specific Skills] in your letter.
Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter for me by [Date]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Email Example: Following Up on a Recommendation Request
Subject: Following Up: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Professor’s/Employer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m following up on my previous email (sent on [Date]) regarding a letter of recommendation for my application to [College/Job/Program]. The deadline is approaching on [Date].
I understand you’re very busy, but I wanted to gently remind you of the deadline. Please let me know if you need any further information from me.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Email Example: Thank You Email After the Letter is Submitted
Subject: Thank You - Letter of Recommendation - [Your Name]
Dear [Professor’s/Employer’s Name],
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf for [College/Job/Program]. Your support means a great deal to me.
I understand this takes time and effort, and I truly appreciate your willingness to help me in this endeavor. I will be sure to let you know the outcome of my application.
Thank you again for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Asking for a Letter with Specific Instructions
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Position Name]
Dear [Professor’s/Employer’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for the [Position Name] position at [Company Name]. I believe my skills and experience align well with the requirements of this role.
The application requires a letter to be submitted through [Application Portal Name/Email Address]. I have attached the job description and my resume for your review. The deadline to submit the letter is [Date].
The application portal asks for the letter to be in a [Format, e.g., PDF] format, and it must be under [Word Count] words. Also, they ask to address these key criteria: [List 2-3 criteria]. I’d be grateful if you could address these points in your letter.
Please let me know if you can help by [Date]. Thank you very much for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Asking for a Recommendation for a Scholarship
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Scholarship Name]
Dear [Professor’s/Employer’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 [Scholarship Name] scholarship. This scholarship will help me greatly with my [Education/Goals].
The scholarship application requires a letter of recommendation, and the deadline for submission is [Date]. I have attached information about the scholarship, my resume, and a brief personal statement, which explains my goals, academic achievements and how this scholarship is going to make a difference.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if I can assist you in any way. I am very grateful for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
In conclusion, requesting a letter of recommendation doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these email examples and tailoring them to your specific needs, you’ll be well on your way to securing those important letters. Remember to be polite, organized, and provide all the necessary information, and you’ll increase your chances of getting a strong recommendation that helps you achieve your goals. Good luck!