How To Request Strong Letters Of Recommendation

Requesting strong letters of recommendation is a critical aspect of the college application process, scholarship applications, and job searches. These letters provide insight into your character, abilities, and potential from the perspective of someone who knows you well. Here’s a valuable guide on how to request strong letters of recommendation:

1. Choose the Right Recommenders:

– Select Individuals who Know You Well: Choose recommenders who have had significant interactions with you and can speak to your strengths, accomplishments, and character.

– Consider Different Perspectives: Aim for a diverse set of recommenders who can provide insights from various aspects of your life, such as teachers, employers, mentors, or extracurricular activity leaders.

 2. Give Ample Notice:

– Request Early: Reach out to potential recommenders well in advance of your application deadlines, preferably several weeks or even months beforehand.

– Be Respectful of Their Time: Understand that writing a strong letter of recommendation takes time and effort. Provide recommenders with sufficient time to craft thoughtful and personalized letters on your behalf.

 3. Provide Relevant Information:

– Offer Context: When requesting a letter of recommendation, provide recommenders with context about the opportunity you’re applying for, your goals, and why you’re seeking their support.

– Share Your Resume or CV: Include a copy of your resume or curriculum vitae (CV) to refresh the recommender’s memory about your accomplishments, experiences, and qualifications.

4. Be Clear and Specific:

– Communicate Expectations: Clearly outline the requirements and deadlines for the letter of recommendation, including any specific prompts or guidelines provided by the application.

– Highlight Key Points: Suggest specific qualities, achievements, or experiences you would like the recommender to emphasize in the letter. Provide anecdotes or examples to illustrate these points.

5. Follow Up Politely:

– Send Reminders: Follow up with a polite reminder closer to the deadline, especially if the recommender has not yet submitted the letter. Express gratitude for their assistance and reaffirm the importance of the recommendation.

– Offer Assistance: If appropriate, offer to provide additional information or answer any questions the recommender may have to facilitate the writing process.

 6. Express Gratitude:

– Thank You Note: After the letter has been submitted, express your gratitude to the recommender with a sincere thank-you note or email. Acknowledge the time and effort they invested in supporting your application.

– Keep Them Updated: Inform recommenders of the outcome of your application and express appreciation for their contribution, regardless of the outcome.

7. Maintain Professionalism:

– Be Professional and Courteous: Maintain a professional demeanor in all communications with recommenders, including emails and in-person interactions.

– Respect Their Decision: Respect the recommender’s decision if they decline to write a letter of recommendation or are unable to fulfill your request. Thank them for considering your request and move forward gracefully.

By following these guidelines, you can increase the likelihood of receiving strong and supportive letters of recommendation that effectively showcase your qualifications, character, and potential to admissions committees, scholarship panels, or prospective employers. Effective communication, thoughtful preparation, and gratitude are key to cultivating positive relationships with your recommenders and securing impactful endorsements for your applications.