Getting into college or landing that dream job often requires a strong recommendation letter. Knowing how to ask for one professionally is a crucial skill. This essay will guide you through the process, providing helpful email samples for various situations related to Asking For Recommendation Letter Email Sample. We’ll break down the important things to consider when crafting your request and provide examples you can adapt to your own needs.
Why a Well-Crafted Email Matters
Asking for a recommendation letter can feel a bit awkward, but it’s a necessary step. You want to make it as easy as possible for the person you’re asking. A clear, polite, and informative email shows respect for their time and helps them write a compelling letter. A well-written request increases your chances of getting a strong recommendation that highlights your strengths. Remember, these letters can significantly impact your future! Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Timing: Give your recommenders plenty of notice – at least a few weeks, if possible.
- Personalization: Tailor your email to the individual and the specific opportunity.
- Clarity: Clearly state what you need and when you need it.
- Information: Provide all the necessary details, such as deadlines and application instructions.
Sample Emails for Different Scenarios
Asking a Teacher for a College Recommendation
Subject: Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [College Application]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Teacher’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [College Name]. I plan to apply by [Application Deadline].
I really enjoyed your [Subject] class last year, and I particularly valued your insights on [Specific topic or project]. I believe my performance in your class, especially my [Mention a specific skill or quality, e.g., critical thinking, participation, etc.], has prepared me well for the academic challenges of college.
To help you write your letter, I’ve attached my resume, a list of my extracurricular activities, and my personal essay draft. Please let me know if you need any other information from me. I would be grateful if you could submit the letter by [Date - a few days before the deadline].
Thank you so much for considering my request. I greatly appreciate your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Requesting a Recommendation from a Previous Employer
Subject: Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Job Application]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Employer’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for a [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. The application deadline is [Application Deadline].
I truly enjoyed my time working as a [Your Job Title] at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I especially valued the opportunity to [Mention a specific accomplishment or skill you developed]. I believe the skills and experience I gained during my employment there align well with the requirements of this new role.
I have attached my resume and the job description for your review. Please let me know if you require anything else from me to write your recommendation letter. I would appreciate it if you could submit the letter by [Date - a few days before the deadline].
Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I am very grateful for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Following Up on a Recommendation Request
Subject: Following Up - Recommendation Request - [Your Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Teacher’s/Employer’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to follow up on my previous request for a letter of recommendation for [Purpose - e.g., college application, job application]. The deadline is approaching on [Deadline Date].
I understand you are very busy, and I wanted to check in and see if you still have time to write a letter for me. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me, or if the deadline needs to be adjusted.
Thank you again for your time and support. Your recommendation would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Asking for a Recommendation for a Scholarship
Subject: Scholarship Recommendation Request - [Your Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Teacher’s/Counselor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. The application deadline is [Application Deadline].
This scholarship is very important to me as it will help with [Explain how the scholarship will help]. I believe the skills and experiences I have gained in your [Subject/Role] will be helpful. I have attached information about the scholarship, my resume, and a personal statement draft.
Please let me know if you are able to write a recommendation for me. I would be grateful if you could submit the letter by [Date - a few days before the deadline]. Thank you so much for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Asking for a Letter of Recommendation for an Internship
Subject: Internship Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Internship Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Professor’s/Supervisor’s Last Name],
I hope you are doing well.
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for an internship at [Company Name]. The application deadline is [Application Deadline].
I believe my skills and experience in [Mention relevant skills or coursework] would be a great fit for this internship. I particularly enjoyed [Mention a specific project or task related to the internship].
I have attached the internship description and my resume for your review. Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information. I would greatly appreciate if you could submit the letter by [Date - a few days before the deadline].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I am very grateful.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Sending a Thank You Note After Receiving a Recommendation
Subject: Thank You - Recommendation Letter - [Your Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Teacher’s/Employer’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to express my sincere gratitude for writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf for [Application Purpose]. I truly appreciate you taking the time to support me.
[Optional: Briefly mention the outcome - e.g., “I was accepted into the program!” or “I received an interview.”].
Thank you again for your kindness and support. It means a lot to me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Asking for a General Recommendation for Future Opportunities
Subject: Recommendation Request - [Your Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Professor’s/Supervisor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to you to inquire whether you would be willing to provide a general letter of recommendation for me. I will be applying for opportunities in the future, such as internships and jobs, and I believe a letter from you would be a valuable asset.
I greatly appreciated [Mention a specific experience or accomplishment]. I have been following the principles you taught me, and I still have them in mind.
Please let me know if you would be able to support me with a general recommendation. If so, please let me know what information you need. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Remember to personalize these samples with your specific details. Proofread carefully before sending your email. With a little effort, you can craft a professional and effective request that helps you get the recommendations you need.