Asking for a reference letter can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips and examples to help you write an effective reference letter email. You can find examples below and edit them as needed.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter Email
When writing a reference letter email:
- Be clear and concise in your request.
- Provide any necessary information about the position or opportunity for which you are applying.
- Give your reference plenty of time to write the letter.
- Thank your reference for their time and consideration.
Reference Letter Email Example 1: Request for Academic Reference
Dear Professor Smith,
I am writing to request a reference letter for my graduate school application. I am applying to the Master of Education program at XYZ University, and I believe that your letter will help to strengthen my application.
During my time in your classroom, I was consistently impressed by your ability to engage students and create a supportive learning environment. I believe that your letter will speak to my academic ability, work ethic, and potential for success in graduate school.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Reference Letter Email Example 2: Request for Employment Reference
Dear Mr. Johnson,
I am writing to request a reference letter for my job application to ABC Company. I have listed you as a professional reference, and I believe that your letter will help to support my application.
During my time working under your supervision, I learned a great deal about teamwork, communication, and project management. Your letter will help to speak to my professional accomplishments and work ethic.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.
Best regards,
John Smith
Reference Letter Email Example 3: Request for Scholarship Reference
Dear Dr. Lee,
I am writing to request a reference letter for a scholarship application I am submitting. The scholarship is for students studying in the field of computer science, and I believe that your letter will help to support my application.
During my time in your course on algorithms, I was consistently impressed by your ability to explain complex concepts and your dedication to helping students succeed. Your letter will help to speak to my academic ability and potential for success in the field of computer science.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Reference Letter Email Example 4: Request for Volunteer Reference
Dear Ms. Brown,
I am writing to request a reference letter for a volunteer position I am applying for. The position is with a local organization that provides services to homeless individuals, and I believe that your letter will help to support my application.
During my time volunteering with your organization, I was consistently impressed by your dedication to helping those in need and your ability to create a welcoming and supportive environment. Your letter will help to speak to my ability to work with vulnerable populations and my dedication to community service.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.
Best regards,
John Smith
Reference Letter Email Example 5: Request for Graduate School Reference
Dear Professor Lee,
I am writing to request a reference letter for my graduate school application. I am applying to the Master of Fine Arts program at XYZ University, and I believe that your letter will help to strengthen my application.
During my time in your creative writing course, I was consistently impressed by your ability to provide constructive feedback and your dedication to helping students improve their writing. I believe that your letter will speak to my creative ability and potential for success in graduate school.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Reference Letter Email Example 6: Request for Internship Reference
Dear Mr. Lee,
I am writing to request a reference letter for an internship I am applying for. The internship is with a local non-profit organization, and I believe that your letter will help to support my application.
During my time interning with your organization, I was consistently impressed by your leadership and your dedication to improving the lives of marginalized communities. Your letter will help to speak to my ability to work collaboratively and my dedication to social justice.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.
Best regards,
John Smith
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask someone for a reference letter?
When asking someone for a reference letter, be clear and concise in your request. Provide any necessary information about the position or opportunity for which you are applying, and give your reference plenty of time to write the letter. Thank your reference for their time and consideration.
What should I include in my reference letter email?
Your reference letter email should include a clear and concise request for the letter, any necessary information about the position or opportunity for which you are applying, and a thank you for your reference’s time and consideration.
How long should my reference letter email be?
Your reference letter email should be brief and to the point, ideally no more than a few paragraphs.
What should I do if my reference is unable to write a letter for me?
If your reference is unable to write a letter for you, thank them for their time and consideration and ask if there is anyone else they would recommend as a reference.
Should I send a reminder email if my reference hasn’t submitted the letter yet?
If your reference hasn’t submitted the letter yet, it is appropriate to send a polite reminder email after a week or two. Be sure to thank them for their time and consideration.
Is it appropriate to offer to write my own reference letter?
No, it is not appropriate to offer to write your own reference letter. Reference letters should be written by someone who knows your work and can provide an objective assessment of your skills and abilities.
Conclusion
Asking for a reference letter can be nerve-wracking, but with these tips and examples, you can write an effective reference letter email that will help to support your application. Remember to be clear and concise in your request, provide any necessary information, and thank your reference for their time and consideration.