8+ Sample Request Letter Recommendation Templates to Get You Ahead
Requesting a letter of recommendation can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and a well-structured letter, you can increase your chances of getting a positive response. In this article, we’ll explore the key considerations to keep in mind when writing a request letter, share a user’s success story, and provide 8+ sample templates to help you get started.
Key Considerations Before You Write
- Choose the right person: Select someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your skills and achievements.
- Give them enough time: Provide your recommender with sufficient time to write and submit the letter.
- Be clear about the purpose: Specify the purpose of the letter and what you’re applying for.
- Show appreciation: Express your gratitude for their time and effort.
- Follow up: Politely follow up with your recommender to ensure they submit the letter on time.
From Doubt to Success: A User’s Story
Sarah, a recent graduate, was struggling to get her foot in the door in the competitive job market. She knew she needed a strong letter of recommendation to stand out, but she was hesitant to ask her former professor. After crafting a well-structured request letter, her professor agreed to write a glowing recommendation. With the letter in hand, Sarah landed her dream job within weeks.
Sarah’s success story is a testament to the power of a well-written request letter. By following the key considerations and using a professional template, you too can increase your chances of getting a positive response.
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 writing the letter, usually one or two lines below the header.
- Recipient’s Details: Provide the recommender’s name and address.
- Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself and state the purpose of the letter.
- Main Body: Explain why you’re requesting a letter of recommendation and what you’re applying for.
- Closing Paragraph: Express your gratitude and provide contact information.
- Signature: End the letter with a professional closing and your signature.
Embracing Your Next Chapter
Asking for a letter of recommendation requires courage and humility. Remember that you’re not just asking for a favor, you’re giving someone the opportunity to speak positively about you and your abilities.
Take a deep breath, be confident in your abilities, and trust the process. With the right approach and a well-structured letter, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your goals.
Request Letter for a Job Opportunity
John Doe
123 Main St
New York, NY 10001
February 10, 2023
Dr. Jane Smith
Professor of Business
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Dr. Smith,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the marketing position at ABC Corporation. I believe your endorsement would carry significant weight, and I would be grateful if you could speak to my skills and abilities.
I have attached my resume and a copy of the job description for your reference. If you’re able to recommend me, please submit the letter by March 1, 2023.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Takeaway: This letter is effective because it clearly states the purpose and provides all necessary details, making it easy for the recommender to write a strong letter.
Request Letter for a Scholarship
Emily Johnson
456 Elm St
Chicago, IL 60601
January 15, 2023
Dr. Michael Brown
Department of Education
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL 60637
Dear Dr. Brown,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application for the prestigious XYZ Scholarship. Your endorsement would be invaluable in helping me secure this opportunity.
I have attached my academic transcript and a personal statement outlining my goals and aspirations. If you’re able to recommend me, please submit the letter by February 15, 2023.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Emily Johnson
Takeaway: This letter stands out because it highlights the applicant’s academic achievements and provides a clear deadline for submission.
Request Letter for a College Application
David Lee
789 Oak St
San Francisco, CA 94117
October 20, 2022
Ms. Rachel Lee
Counselor
San Francisco High School
San Francisco, CA 94117
Dear Ms. Lee,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my college application to Stanford University. I believe your endorsement would greatly enhance my application.
I have attached my transcript, a personal statement, and a copy of the college’s application requirements. If you’re able to recommend me, please submit the letter by November 15, 2022.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
David Lee
Takeaway: This letter is effective because it provides all necessary documents and clearly states the deadline for submission.
Request Letter for a Business Partnership
Jane Smith
123 Business St
New York, NY 10001
March 10, 2023
Mr. John Doe
CEO, ABC Corporation
New York, NY 10001
Dear Mr. Doe,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support our business partnership proposal to XYZ Inc. Your endorsement would carry significant weight, and I believe it would greatly enhance our chances of securing the partnership.
I have attached a copy of our proposal and a brief overview of our company. If you’re able to recommend us, please submit the letter by April 1, 2023.
Thank you for considering our request. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Takeaway: This letter stands out because it clearly states the purpose and provides all necessary details, making it easy for the recommender to write a strong letter.
Request Letter for a Research Grant
Dr. Maria Rodriguez
456 Research St
Los Angeles, CA 90001
June 15, 2022
Dr. John Taylor
Director, ABC Research Institute
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Dear Dr. Taylor,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my research grant application to the National Science Foundation. Your endorsement would be invaluable in helping me secure this opportunity.
I have attached a copy of my research proposal and a brief overview of my qualifications. If you’re able to recommend me, please submit the letter by July 15, 2022.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Dr. Maria Rodriguez
Takeaway: This letter is effective because it highlights the applicant’s research experience and provides a clear deadline for submission.
Request Letter for a Fellowship
Michael Brown
789 Fellowship St
Washington, D.C. 20001
August 10, 2022
Dr. Emily Johnson
Director, XYZ Fellowship Program
Washington, D.C. 20001
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my fellowship application to the XYZ Fellowship Program. I believe your endorsement would greatly enhance my application.
I have attached a copy of my application and a brief overview of my qualifications. If you’re able to recommend me, please submit the letter by September 10, 2022.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Michael Brown
Takeaway: This letter stands out because it clearly states the purpose and provides all necessary details, making it easy for the recommender to write a strong letter.
Request Letter for a Medical Residency
Dr. David Lee
123 Medical St
New York, NY 10001
November 15, 2022
Dr. Rachel Lee
Director, ABC Medical Residency Program
New York, NY 10001
Dear Dr. Lee,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application to the ABC Medical Residency Program. I believe your endorsement would greatly enhance my application.
I have attached a copy of my application and a brief overview of my qualifications. If you’re able to recommend me, please submit the letter by December 15, 2022.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
Dr. David Lee
Takeaway: This letter is effective because it highlights the applicant’s medical experience and provides a clear deadline for submission.
Request Letter for a Government Job
John Smith
456 Government St
Washington, D.C. 20001
February 20, 2023
Ms. Jane Doe
Director, ABC Government Agency
Washington, D.C. 20001
Dear Ms. Doe,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation to support my application to the ABC Government Agency. I believe your endorsement would greatly enhance my application.
I have attached a copy of my application and a brief overview of my qualifications. If you’re able to recommend me, please submit the letter by March 20, 2023.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Takeaway: This letter stands out because it clearly states the purpose and provides all necessary details, making it easy for the recommender to write a strong letter.
Conclusion
Requesting a letter of recommendation can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and a well-structured letter, you can increase your chances of getting a positive response. Remember to choose the right person, give them enough time, and show appreciation for their time and effort. With these sample templates, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a successful request letter.
By following the key considerations and using a professional template, you’ll be able to write a compelling request letter that showcases your skills and achievements. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and remember to stay confident and humble throughout the process.
Good luck with your request letter, and we hope these samples have been helpful in guiding you towards success!