Asking for a recommendation letter can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unsure of how to approach the request. Crafting a compelling recommendation letter request is crucial in ensuring that your potential reference understands your needs and is able to provide a glowing endorsement of your skills and qualifications. To help alleviate any stress or uncertainty, we’ve put together a sample request template that you can use as a guide when reaching out to your contacts for a letter of recommendation.
Best Structure for Recommendation Letter Request Sample
When requesting a recommendation letter, it’s important to make it as easy as possible for the person writing it. Here is a suggested structure for your request:
- Greeting: Start with a friendly greeting to the person you are requesting the letter from.
- Introduction: Introduce yourself and explain why you are requesting the recommendation letter.
- Your Connection: Briefly explain your relationship with the person and how they know you.
- The Ask: Politely ask if they would be willing to write a recommendation letter for you.
- Details: Provide any relevant details such as the deadline, format, and where the letter should be sent.
- Thank You: Thank the person in advance for taking the time to write the letter.
Here is a sample structure you can use:
| Greeting: | Dear [Recipient’s Name], |
|---|---|
| Introduction: | My name is [Your Name] and I am currently [your position or role]. I am reaching out to you to request a recommendation letter for [reason]. |
| Your Connection: | We have worked together for [timeframe] at [company/school] and I believe your insights into my [skills/qualities/achievements] would greatly benefit my application for [purpose of recommendation letter]. |
| The Ask: | Would you be willing to write a recommendation letter for me? |
| Details: | The deadline for the letter is [date], and it should be sent to [recipient’s contact information]. The preferred format is [format]. |
| Thank You: | Thank you in advance for considering my request. I truly appreciate your support. |
Recommendation Letter Request Samples
Academic Scholarship Application
Dear Professor Johnson, I hope this email finds you well. I am applying for a prestigious academic scholarship and would be grateful if you could provide me with a letter of recommendation. Your support would greatly enhance my chances of receiving this award. Thank you for considering my request.
Job Application
Dear Ms. Smith, I am applying for a position at XYZ Company and I am in need of a professional letter of recommendation. I greatly value your opinion and believe that your endorsement would make a significant impact on my application. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Graduate School Admission
Dear Dr. Lee, I am in the process of applying to graduate school and am seeking letters of recommendation from professionals in my field. I have always admired your work and I would be honored if you could provide me with a strong recommendation. Thank you for your support.
Internship Program
Dear Mr. Davis, I am excited to apply for the internship program at ABC Corporation and I am in need of a letter of recommendation to support my application. Your positive feedback on my work ethic and skills would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your assistance.
Scholarship Program
Dear Mrs. Roberts, I am applying for a scholarship program that requires letters of recommendation from academic mentors. I have always admired your dedication to education and would be honored if you could provide me with a recommendation. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Professional Development Course
Dear Professor Anderson, I am interested in enrolling in a professional development course and need a letter of recommendation as part of the application process. I have enjoyed your classes and I believe your endorsement would greatly benefit my application. Thank you for your support.
Volunteer Program
Dear Ms. Garcia, I am applying to a volunteer program that requires letters of recommendation from community leaders. I have always respected your dedication to public service and would be grateful if you could provide me with a letter of recommendation. Thank you for your consideration.
What information should be included in a recommendation letter request?
In a recommendation letter request, it is important to include your contact information, the recipient’s contact information, the purpose of the recommendation letter, context about your relationship with the requester, and specific details about the skills or qualities you would like them to highlight. You should also provide a deadline for when you need the letter by and any specific formatting requirements. Be sure to express appreciation for their willingness to write the letter and offer to provide any additional information they may need to complete it effectively.
And that’s all you need to know about writing a recommendation letter request. Remember to personalize your message, provide context, and express gratitude to your recipient. Thanks for stopping by and reading this article! If you found it helpful, be sure to drop by again soon for more tips and tricks on navigating the world of academia and professional relationships. Happy writing!