Getting letters of recommendation is a crucial part of many applications, whether you’re applying for college, a job, or a scholarship. Knowing how to properly ask for these letters can make a big difference. This guide will walk you through the process, offering several Asking For Letter Of Recommendation Email Sample examples to help you craft the perfect request.
Understanding the Importance of a Well-Crafted Request
Asking for a letter of recommendation might seem straightforward, but a thoughtful email can significantly increase your chances of getting a positive and detailed letter. It shows respect for the person you’re asking and makes their job easier.
- Demonstrates Respect: A well-written email shows you value their time and expertise.
- Provides Necessary Information: Gives the recommender everything they need to write a strong letter.
- Increases Likelihood of a Positive Response: A clear and polite request is more likely to be accepted.
Asking for a letter of recommendation is a lot like asking someone for a favor; you want to make it as easy as possible for them to say yes and to write a great letter. Here’s where knowing how to craft an effective email comes in handy.
In short, a well-written request is a win-win: it helps you secure a strong letter of recommendation while respecting the person you’re asking.
Email Example: Asking Your Teacher for a College Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - College Application
Dear Ms. [Teacher’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation for my college applications. I’m applying to [List Colleges, e.g., University of California, Berkeley, Stanford University] and the deadline for most applications is [Application Deadline, e.g., January 1st].
I really enjoyed your [Course Name] class last year, and I learned a lot about [Mention Specific Skills or Topics]. I believe you saw my [Mention Positive Qualities, e.g., strong work ethic, critical thinking skills] in class, and I think that your insights would be very helpful.
To help you write the letter, I’ve attached my resume and my personal essay drafts. I’m also happy to provide more information about the colleges I’m applying to and any specific requirements they may have.
Please let me know if you’re able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Respond by Date, e.g., November 15th]. If you’re able to, please let me know if there is any particular information you need from me.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I truly appreciate your support!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Requesting a Letter for a Job Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Job Title] Application
Dear Mr./Ms. [Previous Employer’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The deadline for submitting the letter is [Application Deadline].
During my time at [Previous Company], I worked as a [Your Role] from [Start Date] to [End Date], and I greatly valued the experience and the opportunities I was given. I specifically developed skills in [List 2-3 Key Skills].
I have attached my resume and the job description for your review. I’m particularly highlighting my experience in [Mention Relevant Experiences]. Please let me know if you need any more information from me.
If you are able to provide a letter, please send it to [Email Address or Application Portal Instructions] by [Respond by Date].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
Email Example: Asking for a Letter for a Scholarship
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Scholarship Name] Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for my application for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. The deadline for the letter is [Application Deadline].
I really enjoyed your [Course Name] class, and I especially remember our discussions on [Mention Specific Topics]. I believe my academic performance and the skills I gained would be of great value.
I’ve attached information about the scholarship, including the application requirements. I’m also providing my resume and my personal statement draft for your review.
Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Respond by Date]. I would be grateful for your support.
Thank you so much for your time and support. I really appreciate it.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Email Example: Following Up on a Recommendation Request
Subject: Gentle Reminder: Letter of Recommendation - [Your Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Recommender’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to follow up on my previous email, in which I requested a letter of recommendation for [Purpose, e.g., my college application]. The deadline for submitting the letter is approaching on [Date].
I understand you’re busy, and I wanted to gently remind you of my request. Please let me know if you have any questions or if there’s anything else I can provide to help you write the letter.
Thank you again for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Thank You for a Letter of Recommendation
Subject: Thank You - Letter of Recommendation
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I truly appreciate the time and effort you put into supporting my [Application, e.g., college application, job application].
I am very thankful for your help and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Requesting a Letter for a Graduate School Application
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - Graduate School Application
Dear Dr. [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [Name of Graduate Program] at [Name of University]. The application deadline is [Date].
I greatly enjoyed your [Course Name] class and particularly valued your insights on [Specific Topic]. I believe the skills I developed during your class would be very beneficial to the program.
I have attached my CV, a personal statement draft, and the graduate program requirements to this email. Please let me know if you require any additional information from me. I am happy to provide it.
If you are able to write the letter, please send it to [Email Address or Application Portal Instructions] by [Respond by Date]. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
In conclusion, learning how to ask for letters of recommendation is a vital skill. Using these Asking For Letter Of Recommendation Email Sample examples can help you create effective requests and increase your chances of success. Always remember to be polite, provide all the necessary information, and show your appreciation. Good luck!