What are important courtesies to remember when asking for letters of recommendation?
I am applying to graduate programs and want to make sure that I am following the rules when it comes to asking for letters of recommendation. Some recommenders I have a very close relationship with (mentors, for example) so I am not worried about asking them, but there are others (lecturers, for example) that I am a little nervous to ask. It just feels so awkward because I haven’t spoken to them since I took their class (some up to two years), but I know they would give me a good recommendation. Also, I live about an hour and a half away from the University where most of these recommenders are. Would it be inappropriate to ask via email so long as I make it very formal? What are some other protocol I should follow here?
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3 Answers
Email is fine.
1. Remember to give them the instructions for the letter so they know what specifically is wanted.
2. Give them the contact information. If it has to be mailed (rather than emailed) provide the postage and addressed envelopes.
3. Remember to send a than-you. If you have seen the letter, be sure and reference it in your thank you. (“I thought it was an especially nice touch when you said blah blah blah.”)
@marinelife GA!
One other thing to keep in mind is to not take offense if a person doesn’t respond or turns down your request. Some people would rather have their teeth cleaned than write a recommendation; there may be a professor that does not remember you; and while it doesn’t seem applicable in your situation, there are companies that require encourage their managers to not do so. In all of these cases, it is not a reflection on you.
Best of luck!
I would be sure to make use of wording that makes the person feel great about writing the reference – this will most likely influence their grammar and prose. They will therefore sub-consiously write nice things using nice words as well. (provided you’re a good person) :)
eg: “I would really appreciate…”
finish with…
“Many thanks for taking the time to read this, I look forward to hearing from you either way.
Sincerely….”
just some ideas. that’s always worked well for me. thanks.
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