How to Email for Recommendation Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide
In today’s competitive job market, a well-written recommendation letter can make a significant difference in your application process. However, crafting the perfect email to request a recommendation letter can be a challenging task. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to email for a recommendation letter, ensuring that your request is professional, polite, and effective.
Step 1: Choose the Right Time
Before sending an email, it’s essential to choose the right time to request a recommendation letter. Ideally, you should ask for the letter at least two to three weeks before the deadline. This gives the recommender ample time to write and submit the letter.
Step 2: Select the Right Recommender
When choosing a recommender, consider someone who knows you well and can speak to your abilities, experiences, and character. This could be a former employer, professor, or mentor. Make sure to select someone who is willing and able to write a positive recommendation.
Step 3: Craft a Polite and Professional Email
Start your email with a clear subject line, such as “Request for Recommendation Letter.” In the body of the email, follow these guidelines:
1. Begin with a polite greeting, such as “Dear [Recommender’s Name],”
2. Introduce yourself and briefly mention the position or program you’re applying for.
3. Explain why you’re seeking their recommendation and how they know you (e.g., as a former supervisor, professor, or mentor).
4. Provide a deadline for the letter, along with any specific instructions or details you need them to include.
5. Offer to provide any additional information or materials they may need to write the letter.
6. Express your gratitude for their time and assistance.
7. End with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name.
Example Email:
Subject: Request for Recommendation Letter for [Position/Program Name]
Dear [Recommender’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a recommendation letter for the [Position/Program Name] application process, which I am currently preparing for. As you know, I had the pleasure of working with you as my [position] from [start date] to [end date], and I believe your insight into my abilities and experiences would greatly strengthen my application.
The deadline for the recommendation letter is [deadline], and I would greatly appreciate if you could submit it by then. I understand that your time is valuable, so please let me know if there’s any additional information or materials you require from me to write the letter.
Thank you for considering my request. I am confident that your recommendation will be instrumental in helping me secure this opportunity. Please feel free to contact me at [your email address] or [your phone number] if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Step 4: Follow Up
If you haven’t received a response within a reasonable timeframe (usually one week), it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up email. Express your gratitude for their time and remind them of the deadline. This follow-up can help ensure that your request doesn’t get overlooked.
Step 5: Thank the Recommender
Once the recommendation letter is submitted, take the time to thank the recommender for their assistance. A simple email or phone call will suffice. Show your appreciation for their time and effort in writing the letter on your behalf.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to successfully requesting a recommendation letter via email. Remember to be polite, professional, and timely in your communication, and your request will likely be met with a positive response.
