If you’re applying for a job or a scholarship, you’ll often need a recommendation letter to support your application. A recommendation letter from a teacher, professor, or supervisor can make a big difference in the decision-making process. However, getting someone to write you a letter of recommendation can be daunting, so we’ve put together some tips and examples to help you get started.
Examples
Request for Recommendation Letter Sample for a Job Application
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my job application at [Company Name]. As you may know, I have worked at [Company Name] for the past [Number of Years], where I have gained valuable skills and experience in [Field]. I believe that a letter of recommendation from you would greatly enhance my chances of securing this position.
Thank you for considering my request. If you require any additional information or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Request for Recommendation Letter Sample for Graduate School
Dear [Greeting],
I am applying for graduate school at [University Name], and I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you. As my [Teacher/Professor/Supervisor], you have been an important influence in my academic journey, and I believe that your endorsement would be invaluable to my application.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I have attached my resume and transcript for your reference. Please let me know if you require any additional information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Request for Recommendation Letter Sample for Scholarship
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my scholarship application. The [Scholarship Name] is a highly competitive opportunity, and I believe that your endorsement would greatly enhance my application.
As my [Teacher/Professor/Supervisor], you have seen my academic abilities and my commitment to [Field]. I hope that you will be able to provide a positive assessment of my potential to succeed in this scholarship. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Request for Recommendation Letter Sample for Volunteer Work
Dear [Greeting],
I am applying to volunteer at [Organization Name], and I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you. As my volunteer supervisor, you have seen my dedication to [Cause], and I believe that your endorsement would be a valuable addition to my application.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information you require.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Request for Recommendation Letter Sample for Internship
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my internship application at [Company Name]. As my [Teacher/Professor/Supervisor], you have seen my academic achievements and my passion for [Field]. I believe that your endorsement would greatly enhance my chances of securing this internship.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information you require.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Request for Recommendation Letter Sample for Character Reference
Dear [Greeting],
I am applying for a [Purpose], and I am writing to request a letter of recommendation as a character reference. As someone who knows me well, I believe that your endorsement would be a valuable addition to my application.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information you require.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips
When requesting a letter of recommendation, keep in mind the following tips:
- Ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities
- Provide the person with all the necessary information about the application, including deadlines and instructions
- Give the person enough time to write the letter, usually at least two weeks
- Remind the person about your accomplishments and provide them with any relevant materials, such as your resume or transcript
- Thank the person for their time and consideration, and offer to reciprocate if they ever need a letter of recommendation from you
FAQs
How Do I Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?
The best way to ask for a letter of recommendation is to send an email or message requesting it politely. Explain your purpose and provide the person with all the necessary information about the application, including deadlines and instructions. Thank the person for their time and consideration, and offer to reciprocate if they ever need a letter of recommendation from you.
Who Should I Ask for a Letter of Recommendation?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities. This could be a teacher, professor, supervisor, or mentor. Make sure to ask someone who is familiar with the application requirements and can write a positive letter of recommendation on your behalf.
How Many Letters of Recommendation Do I Need?
The number of letters of recommendation you need depends on the application requirements. Some applications require one letter of recommendation, while others require two or more. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and provide the required number of letters.
What Information Should I Provide for the Person Writing the Letter?
Provide the person with all the necessary information about the application, including deadlines and instructions. Give the person enough time to write the letter, usually at least two weeks. Remind the person about your accomplishments and provide them with any relevant materials, such as your resume or transcript.
What Should I Do if the Person Can’t Write Me a Letter of Recommendation?
If the person can’t write you a letter of recommendation, thank them for their time and consideration, and ask if they know someone else who could write you a letter. If you can’t find someone else, explain your situation to the application committee and ask if they can make an exception.
How Do I Follow Up on a Letter of Recommendation?
If the person hasn’t submitted the letter of recommendation by the deadline, send them a polite reminder. Thank them again for their time and consideration, and ask if there is anything you can do to help them write the letter. If the person still hasn’t submitted the letter, consider finding someone else to write you a letter.
Conclusion
Requesting a letter of recommendation can be nerve-wracking, but with these tips and examples, you’ll be able to write a polite and effective request. Remember to provide all the necessary information, give the person enough time to write the letter, and thank them for their time and consideration.