Asking for a letter of recommendation can feel like an overwhelming task. You want to come across as professional, without sounding too pushy or presumptuous. It can be nerve-racking to ask for a letter of recommendation, but it doesn’t have to be. Luckily, there are plenty of letter of recommendation templates that can make the process a whole lot easier for you.
If you need to ask someone for a letter of recommendation, you’re in luck. There are plenty of resources available online that can help you find the right letter of recommendation template for your specific needs. Whether you need a letter of recommendation for employment, graduate school, or for a scholarship application, you can easily find samples and templates that you can edit to make your own.
So, if you’re feeling anxious about approaching someone for a letter of recommendation, just know that you’re not alone. Remember, many people have been in your shoes before and have walked away with great results. With the help of a letter of recommendation template, you can make this process simple, easy and efficient. You’ve got this!
The Best Structure for Asking for a Letter of Recommendation Template
So, you need to ask someone for a letter of recommendation? First off, congratulations! This means you’re making moves and taking your career or academic path seriously. Now, the question is, how should you go about asking for that letter of recommendation? Here’s an in-depth explanation of the best structure for asking for a letter of recommendation template.
Step 1: Choose the right person to ask
The first step in asking for a letter of recommendation is to choose the right person to ask. You want to ask someone who has experience working with you or knows you academically. Ideally, this should be someone who can speak to your skills, strengths, and accomplishments in a specific field or area. Make sure you choose someone who is excited to write a letter of recommendation for you.
Step 2: Start with a polite introduction
When you’re ready to ask for a letter of recommendation, start with a polite introduction. This can be an email or a face-to-face conversation. Express your gratitude for the person’s time and consideration. Explain why you’re asking this person in particular for a letter of recommendation.
Step 3: Provide context and information
After you’ve introduced yourself and the reason for your request, provide some context and information about the letter of recommendation. Explain what you’re applying for or what you’re hoping to achieve. Provide any necessary information such as specific instructions for the letter or the due date.
Step 4: Share your accomplishments and goals
In asking for a letter of recommendation, it’s important for the person to know why you’re deserving of one. Share some of your accomplishments and goals that are relevant to the letter you’re asking for. This can help the person write a more personalized and meaningful letter of recommendation.
Step 5: Say thank you and provide next steps
Once you’ve shared all the relevant information about your request, don’t forget to say thank you and provide next steps. Express your gratitude for the person’s time and effort in writing the letter. Let them know what they can expect from you next, such as a follow-up email or information about the outcome of your application.
Conclusion
Asking for a letter of recommendation can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. The best structure for asking for a letter of recommendation template includes choosing the right person, starting with a polite introduction, providing context and information, sharing accomplishments and goals, and saying thank you and providing next steps. At the end of the day, remember that the person you’re asking is likely excited to help you succeed. Good luck!
Letter of Recommendation Templates
Academic Recommendation Template
Dear [Name],
It is my pleasure to recommend [Student’s Name] for [reason for recommendation]. As their [professor/advisor etc.] at [School name], I had the opportunity to closely observe [Student’s Name]’s academic abilities and personal qualities.
[Student’s name] consistently demonstrated [academic skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, etc.]. They have a passion for learning and an insatiable curiosity that makes them stand out amongst their peers. I was particularly impressed with [highlight specific examples of their work or projects].
[Student’s name] is an excellent candidate for [graduate program/scholarship/award etc.]. They possess the right blend of academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and strong work ethic that is necessary for success in [chosen field].
I wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Name] for [reason for recommendation] without reservation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Employment Recommendation Template
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
It is my pleasure and honor to recommend [Employee’s Name] for [reason for recommendation]. I had the privilege of working with [Employee Name] at [Company Name] for [duration of employment] as their [supervisor/manager].
[Employee’s name] is an exceptional employee and a true asset to any organization. They possess [characteristics and work ethics of the employee], which translated into [specific examples of their work]. [Employee’s name] was responsible for[specific project/achievement] which was executed with exceptional efficiency and professionalism.
I have no doubt that [Employee’s Name] will be a great fit for [new job position/industry] and their [skillset/experience] will be a great asset to your organization. I highly recommend [Employee’s Name] for [reason for recommendation] without reservation.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Title]
Graduate School Recommendation Template
Dear [Admissions Committee’s Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your [program name and school name]. As their [professor/advisor etc.] at [School Name], I have worked closely with [Student’s Name] and can attest to their outstanding abilities and promise as a graduate student.
[Student’s name] is one of the most promising students I have had the opportunity to teach in my [number of years] years of experience. They consistently demonstrated [academic skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, etc.] and [highlight specific examples of their work or projects]. [Student’s name] is also a great communicator, collaborator, and team player that makes them stand out amongst their peers.
I have no doubt that [Student’s Name] will thrive in your graduate program, and their contributions will greatly benefit your academic community. I highly recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your [program name] without reservation.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Volunteer Recommendation Template
Dear [Volunteer Organization’s Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Volunteer’s Name] for [reason for recommendation]. I had the opportunity to work with [Volunteer’s Name] at [Volunteer Organization’s Name], where they have been an active volunteer for [duration of volunteering period].
[Volunteer’s name] is an exceptional volunteer who demonstrated their dedication to the organization’s mission through [specific examples of their contributions]. [Volunteer’s Name] consistently showed up on time and went above and beyond their duties to make a positive impact in [the community/the organization].
I have no doubt that [Volunteer’s Name] will continue to be an excellent volunteer for any organization they engage with. They possess [personal qualities, skills, and experiences] which make them an asset to any community. I enthusiastically recommend [Volunteer’s Name] for [reason for recommendation] without reservation.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Title]
Internship Recommendation Template
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] for [reason for recommendation]. As [Student’s Name]’s [supervisor/manager] at [Company Name], I had the privilege to work closely with [Student’s Name] during their [internship term period].
[Student’s Name] demonstrated exceptional skills in [specific tasks related to the workplace]. They showed great willingness to learn and adapt to new situations, and demonstrated excellent [personal qualities such as communication and teamwork skills]. [Student’s Name] was an excellent addition to our team, and we are grateful for the outstanding work they provided.
I highly recommend [Student’s Name] for [reason for recommendation]. They possess the right combination of [highlights personal qualities and skills] which ensures they are capable of handling any challenges that come their way. I am confident that [Student’s Name] will be a great asset to any organization they work for.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Scholarship Recommendation Template
Dear [Scholarship Committee’s Name],
I am honored to recommend [Student’s Name] for [reason for recommendation]. As [Student’s Name]’s [professor/advisor], I had the privilege of working closely with [Student’s Name] at [School Name].
[Student’s Name] is one of the most talented and dedicated students I have ever had the opportunity to teach. They consistently demonstrated [academic skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, etc.] and [highlight specific examples of their work or projects]. [Student’s Name] is also a great communicator, collaborator, and team player that makes them stand out amongst their peers.
I have no doubt that [Student’s Name] will thrive in [chosen field], and their contributions will greatly benefit your scholarship program. They possess [academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and strong work ethic] that ensures they are capable of handling any challenges that come their way. I highly recommend [Student’s Name] for [reason for recommendation] without reservation.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Asking for a Letter of Recommendation: Tips and Tricks
Asking for a letter of recommendation can be nerve-wracking, but it’s an important step in furthering your career or educational goals. Here are some tips and tricks to make the process as smooth as possible:
- Choose the right person: The person you ask to write your letter of recommendation should be someone who knows you well and can speak to your skills and accomplishments. Think about past supervisors, teachers, coaches, or mentors who can provide a strong endorsement.
- Ask in person: While it may be easier to send an email or text message, it’s always better to ask for a letter of recommendation in person. This shows that you value the person’s opinion and are willing to make the effort to ask face-to-face.
- Be clear about your goals: When you ask for the letter, be sure to explain your goals and why their endorsement would be helpful. This can provide context and help the person craft a more effective letter.
- Provide a deadline and necessary information: Be sure to provide any necessary deadlines or information about where the letter needs to go. This can help the person prioritize your request and ensure they have all the necessary information to write a strong recommendation.
- Offer to provide additional materials: If the person needs more information about your accomplishments or skills, offer to provide materials like a resume, transcripts, or work samples. This can make the process easier and help the person write a more detailed letter.
- Send a thank-you note: Once the letter has been submitted, be sure to send a thank-you note to the person who wrote it. This shows your appreciation for their time and effort, and helps to maintain a positive relationship.
By following these tips and tricks, you can make the process of asking for a letter of recommendation as smooth and stress-free as possible. Remember to choose the right person, ask in person, be clear about your goals, provide necessary information, offer additional materials, and send a thank-you note.
Thanks for Stopping By!
And there you have it – a handy template to help you ask for a letter of recommendation with ease. Whether you’re vying for a new position or applying to grad school, a powerful letter of recommendation can be the game-changer you need to succeed. Remember to customize this template for every person you ask, and be sure to show your appreciation to your recommenders once they’ve finished. Before you go, consider checking out some of the other great resources we have here on this site. We’ll be here waiting for your next visit!