How To Ask For A Letter of Recommendation: An Email Template

Asking for a letter of recommendation doesn’t have to be an awkward situation where you feel like you’re sucking up and begging at the same time. Let’s face it: if you’re looking for a new job or putting together an application to head back to uni, you’ve got better things to worry about. Here’s the pain-free way to ask for a letter of recommendation.

Subject line:

Letter of Recommendation for [your name]

Body

Hi Andrea,

Hope all is well and things are great over at [company name]! I noticed [insert something personal or professional depending on your relationship with the person e.g. you were shortlisted for X awards – nice one!/you just got back from New Zealand – that trek looked insane!]

It’s an exciting time on my end. I’m currently in the process of applying for a new job/heading back to uni. As you were my supervisor/manager for X years, I was wondering whether you’d be willing to write me a letter of recommendation.

I know you’re quite busy, so I’m more than happy to write up a draft that you can edit if it makes life easier for you =)

I’m hoping to submit my application by [date], so if you could let me know as soon as possible that’d be great!

Cheers,

[Your name]

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