How to ask for a recommendation letter
A good recommendation letter can make the difference in a hiring process or scholarship. Here's how to ask well, with examples.
Asking for a recommendation letter feels a little awkward: you're asking someone to spend time writing about you. But most people are glad to help if you ask well and give them time.
Here's who to ask, when, what to send to make it easy, and four example emails.
Who to ask
- Someone who knows your work well: a manager, professor or client you've worked closely with.
- Ideally someone relevant to the role or program you're applying for.
- Someone who can speak to concrete results, not just how nice you are.
- Ask first whether they can write a strong letter: a lukewarm letter does more harm than good.
How much notice to give
University career services commonly recommend giving your recommender at least 2 to 4 weeks to write the letter. The more time, the better the result.
If the deadline is close, say so clearly in your first email and provide all the information so it's quick for them.
What to send them to make it easy
- Your updated resume.
- The role or program description and why you're interested.
- Two or three achievements you'd like them to mention.
- The deadline and how to submit it: by email, through a form or on paper.
- A friendly reminder a few days before the deadline.
4 emails to ask for a recommendation letter
1. To a former manager
Subject: Could you write me a recommendation letter? Hi [name], I'm applying for [role] and would love to have a letter from you, since we worked together on [project]. The deadline is [date]. I'll send you my resume and the details. Thank you so much!
2. To a professor
Subject: Recommendation letter for [program] Dear Professor [name], I was your student in [course] in [year]. I'm applying to [program] and would be very grateful for a recommendation letter. The deadline is [date]. I've attached my resume.
3. Asking to list them as a reference
Subject: May I list you as a reference? Hi [name], I'm interviewing for [role] and they've asked for references. Would you mind if I shared your contact details? They'll probably call in the next few weeks.
4. Thank-you
Subject: Thank you for your letter! Hi [name], Thank you so much for the recommendation letter. I'll let you know how the process goes. It means a lot.
Write it without fuss
If you're in several processes at once, you'll need to ask for several letters. With NexoPad you save your email with a shortcut like /recommend and variables for the name, role or program, the project you shared and the deadline.
When you type the shortcut in your email or on a professional network, NexoPad asks for those details and writes the full message.
Frequently asked questions
Should I ask by email or in person?
If you know them well, mention it in person and then send an email with all the details.
What if they don't reply?
Send a friendly reminder after a week. If there's still no answer and the deadline is near, ask someone else.
Should I draft the letter myself?
Only if they ask. In that case, list concrete achievements and let them adapt it to their style.
What about after the interview?
You'll find examples in our guide to the follow-up email after an interview.
Published on October 11, 20266 min read
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