Asking for a reference letter can be intimidating, but crafting one can be equally challenging. To ensure that your reference letter is effective, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here are some reference letter questions to ask:
Before we dive into the questions, it’s important to understand the purpose of a reference letter. A reference letter is a letter written by someone who knows you well and can testify to your skills, character, and abilities. It is typically used to support a job application, college application, or other type of application. A strong reference letter can make a big difference in your application, so it’s important to take the time to ask the right questions and provide your reference with the information they need to write an effective letter.
Keep in mind that you can find examples of reference letters online and edit them as needed. However, it’s important to personalize the letter as much as possible to make it relevant to your specific application.
Tips
1. Reference Letter for a Job Application
Greeting: Dear [Name of Reference],
Paragraph 1: Thank you for agreeing to write a reference letter for me. The job I am applying for is [job title] at [company name]. I believe that my skills and experience are a good match for this position because [reasons].
Paragraph 2: If possible, it would be helpful if you could speak to my [specific skill or accomplishment] and [specific character trait]. I would also appreciate it if you could give an example of a time when I demonstrated these qualities. Thank you again for your help.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely, [Your Name]
2. Reference Letter for a College Application
Greeting: Dear [Name of Reference],
Paragraph 1: I am applying to [college name] and I am hoping that you can write a reference letter for me. I believe that my academic performance, extracurricular activities, and [specific personal quality] make me a good fit for this college.
Paragraph 2: It would be helpful if you could speak to my [specific academic achievement or strength] and [specific personal quality]. I would also appreciate it if you could give an example of a time when I demonstrated these qualities. Thank you for your help.
Complimentary Close: Best regards, [Your Name]
3. Reference Letter for a Volunteer Position
Greeting: Hello [Name of Reference],
Paragraph 1: I am applying for a volunteer position at [organization name] and I am hoping that you can write a reference letter for me. I have been involved with this organization for [length of time] and I believe that my skills and experience would make me an asset to the team.
Paragraph 2: It would be helpful if you could speak to my [specific skill or experience] and [specific personal quality]. I would also appreciate it if you could give an example of a time when I demonstrated these qualities. Thank you for your time.
Complimentary Close: Thank you, [Your Name]
4. Reference Letter for a Graduate School Application
Greeting: Dear [Name of Reference],
Paragraph 1: I am applying to graduate school and I am hoping that you can write a reference letter for me. I believe that my academic background, research experience, and [specific personal quality] make me a strong candidate for this program.
Paragraph 2: It would be helpful if you could speak to my [specific academic achievement or strength] and [specific personal quality]. I would also appreciate it if you could give an example of a time when I demonstrated these qualities. Thank you for your time.
Complimentary Close: Best wishes, [Your Name]
5. Reference Letter for a Scholarship Application
Greeting: Dear [Name of Reference],
Paragraph 1: I am applying for a scholarship and I am hoping that you can write a reference letter for me. I believe that my academic performance, leadership abilities, and [specific personal quality] make me a strong candidate for this scholarship.
Paragraph 2: It would be helpful if you could speak to my [specific academic achievement or strength] and [specific personal quality]. I would also appreciate it if you could give an example of a time when I demonstrated these qualities. Thank you for your consideration.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely, [Your Name]
6. Reference Letter for a Personal Recommendation
Greeting: Hi [Name of Reference],
Paragraph 1: I am hoping that you can write me a personal reference letter. I believe that my [specific personal quality] and [specific accomplishment or experience] make me a strong candidate for [specific opportunity].
Paragraph 2: It would be helpful if you could speak to my [specific personal quality or accomplishment] and provide an example of a time when I demonstrated this quality. Thank you for your help.
Complimentary Close: Regards, [Your Name]
FAQ
How do I ask someone to write a reference letter?
You can ask someone to write a reference letter by sending them an email or scheduling a meeting to discuss the request in person. Be sure to give them plenty of notice and provide them with the information they need to write an effective letter.
What information should I provide to my reference?
You should provide your reference with a copy of your resume, a description of the opportunity you are applying for, and any other relevant information that will help them write an effective letter. Be sure to also explain why you are asking them specifically for a reference letter.
Who should I ask to write a reference letter?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your skills, character, and abilities. This could be a former employer, professor, mentor, or someone else who has worked closely with you in a professional or academic setting.
How many reference letters should I include in my application?
This will depend on the specific application requirements, but typically 2-3 reference letters are sufficient. Be sure to check the application guidelines to see how many reference letters are required.
Do I need to write a thank-you note after someone writes me a reference letter?
Yes, it’s a good idea to write a thank-you note to express your appreciation for their help. You can send a handwritten note or an email, but be sure to keep it brief and sincere.
Can I see the reference letter before it is submitted?
This will depend on the specific situation and the preferences of your reference. Some references may be willing to share the letter with you before it is submitted, while others may not. Be sure to ask your reference if they are willing to share the letter with you.
Conclusion
Asking the right reference letter questions can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your reference letter. Be sure to personalize the letter as much as possible and provide your reference with the information they need to write an effective letter. Remember to express your appreciation for their help and follow up with a thank-you note.