8+ Sample Request Letter Recommendation Writing Information
When it comes to asking for a professional recommendation, a well-crafted request letter can make all the difference. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or an entrepreneur, a strong letter can help you secure valuable endorsements that can open doors to new opportunities. In this article, we’ll explore the art of writing effective request letters for recommendations, complete with 8 sample letters and valuable insights to help you get started.
From Doubt to Success: A User’s Story
Sarah, a marketing specialist, was struggling to find a new job after being laid off from her previous company. Despite her impressive skills and experience, she was repeatedly rejected by potential employers. That was until she decided to ask her former supervisor for a professional recommendation. With a well-written request letter, Sarah was able to secure a glowing endorsement that helped her land her dream job.
Thanks to her request letter, Sarah’s supervisor was able to highlight her exceptional marketing skills and dedication to her work. The recommendation not only boosted Sarah’s confidence but also gave her the edge she needed to stand out in a competitive job market.
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted request letter. It can be the difference between getting your foot in the door and being left behind.
Remember, asking for a recommendation is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of confidence in your abilities. So, take the leap and ask for the endorsement you deserve.
Key Considerations Before You Write
- Choose the right person: Select someone who knows you well and can speak to your skills and accomplishments.
- Be clear about your goals: Specify the job or opportunity you’re applying for and how the recommendation will be used.
- Provide necessary information: Give the recommender all the necessary details, such as your resume and a summary of your achievements.
- Show gratitude: Express your appreciation for the recommender’s time and endorsement.
- Edit and proofread: Carefully review your letter for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Anatomy of a Professional Letter
- Header (Name, Address): Include your name and address in the top-left corner of the page.
- Date: Write the date you’re sending the letter.
- Recipient’s Details: Address the recommender by name and title.
- Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself and state the purpose of the letter.
- Main Body: Provide specific examples of your skills and accomplishments.
- Closing Paragraph: Express gratitude and reiterate your request.
- Signature: End with a professional closing and your signature.
Sample 1: Request for a General Recommendation
John Doe
123 Main St
New York, NY 10001
February 10, 2023
Dr. Jane Smith
Professor of Marketing
University of New York
Dear Dr. Smith,
I am writing to request a professional recommendation to support my future career endeavors. As my professor and mentor, I believe you are uniquely qualified to speak to my skills and accomplishments in the field of marketing.
I would be grateful if you could highlight my exceptional marketing skills, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my future job applications.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Takeaway: This sample letter is concise and to the point, making it easy for the recommender to understand the request and provide a general recommendation.
Sample 2: Request for a Job-Specific Recommendation
Emily Chen
456 Elm St
San Francisco, CA 94105
March 15, 2023
Ms. Rachel Lee
HR Manager
TechCorp
Dear Ms. Lee,
I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at TechCorp, and I believe a professional recommendation from you would significantly enhance my application.
I would be grateful if you could speak to my exceptional marketing skills, particularly in the areas of social media and campaign development. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my job application.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Emily Chen
Takeaway: This sample letter is tailored to a specific job application, making it clear what the recommender should focus on in their endorsement.
Sample 3: Request from a Recent Graduate
Michael Brown
789 Oak St
Chicago, IL 60611
May 1, 2023
Dr. David Johnson
Dean of Students
University of Illinois
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I am writing to request a professional recommendation to support my job search as a recent graduate of the University of Illinois. As my academic advisor, I believe you are uniquely qualified to speak to my skills and accomplishments.
I would be grateful if you could highlight my exceptional academic achievements, particularly in the areas of business and finance. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my future job applications.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Michael Brown
Takeaway: This sample letter is written from the perspective of a recent graduate, highlighting the importance of academic achievements in the recommendation.
Sample 4: Request for a Recommendation from a Supervisor
Samantha Lee
234 Pine St
Seattle, WA 98101
June 10, 2023
Mr. James Kim
Supervisor
ABC Corporation
Dear Mr. Kim,
I am writing to request a professional recommendation to support my future career endeavors. As my supervisor, I believe you are uniquely qualified to speak to my skills and accomplishments in the workplace.
I would be grateful if you could highlight my exceptional leadership skills, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my future job applications.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Samantha Lee
Takeaway: This sample letter is written from the perspective of an employee, highlighting the importance of workplace skills and accomplishments in the recommendation.
Sample 5: Request for a Recommendation from a Colleague
Olivia Martin
567 Maple St
Boston, MA 02115
July 15, 2023
Ms. Sophia Patel
Colleague
XYZ Corporation
Dear Ms. Patel,
I am writing to request a professional recommendation to support my future career endeavors. As my colleague, I believe you are uniquely qualified to speak to my skills and accomplishments in the workplace.
I would be grateful if you could highlight my exceptional teamwork and communication skills, as well as my ability to work under pressure. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my future job applications.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Olivia Martin
Takeaway: This sample letter is written from the perspective of a colleague, highlighting the importance of teamwork and communication skills in the recommendation.
Sample 6: Request for a Recommendation from a Mentor
Alexander White
890 Cedar St
Austin, TX 78701
August 20, 2023
Dr. Maria Rodriguez
Mentor
University of Texas
Dear Dr. Rodriguez,
I am writing to request a professional recommendation to support my future career endeavors. As my mentor, I believe you are uniquely qualified to speak to my skills and accomplishments.
I would be grateful if you could highlight my exceptional research skills, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my future job applications.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Alexander White
Takeaway: This sample letter is written from the perspective of a mentee, highlighting the importance of research skills and attention to detail in the recommendation.
Sample 7: Request for a Recommendation for a Specific Industry
Lily Tran
234 5th Ave
New York, NY 10001
September 10, 2023
Ms. Rachel Kim
Industry Expert
Fashion Corporation
Dear Ms. Kim,
I am writing to request a professional recommendation to support my future career endeavors in the fashion industry. As an expert in the field, I believe you are uniquely qualified to speak to my skills and accomplishments.
I would be grateful if you could highlight my exceptional design skills, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my future job applications.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Lily Tran
Takeaway: This sample letter is written from the perspective of an industry professional, highlighting the importance of specific skills and accomplishments in the recommendation.
Sample 8: Request for a Recommendation for a Startup
Ethan Hall
345 1st St
San Francisco, CA 94105
October 15, 2023
Mr. David Lee
Investor
Startup Accelerator
Dear Mr. Lee,
I am writing to request a professional recommendation to support my startup, TechStart. As an investor and expert in the startup ecosystem, I believe you are uniquely qualified to speak to my skills and accomplishments.
I would be grateful if you could highlight my exceptional entrepreneurial skills, attention to detail, and dedication to innovation. Your endorsement would carry significant weight in my future fundraising efforts.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Ethan Hall
Takeaway: This sample letter is written from the perspective of a startup founder, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurial skills and innovation in the recommendation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a well-crafted request letter can make all the difference in securing a valuable professional recommendation. By following the samples and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a letter that showcases your skills and accomplishments. Remember to be clear, concise, and respectful in your request, and don’t be afraid to showcase your personality and achievements.