If you’re applying for a job or school, you may need a reference letter from a previous employer or teacher. A reference letter highlights your skills and accomplishments, and provides insight into your character. Below are some tips and examples to help you create a request for reference letter.
Tips for Requesting a Reference Letter
Here are some tips to keep in mind when asking for a reference letter:
1. Choose the Right Person
Find someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities. This may be a former boss, teacher, or mentor.
2. Give Ample Time
Give your reference writer plenty of notice to write a letter. Two to three weeks is usually sufficient time.
3. Be Specific
Provide your reference writer with specific information about the position or program you’re applying for. This will help them tailor the letter to the specific requirements.
4. Provide Context
Include a brief overview of your experience and accomplishments to remind your reference writer of your strengths and achievements.
5. Offer Assistance
Let your reference writer know that you’re available to answer any questions they may have, and offer to provide them with additional information if needed.
Example Request for Reference Letter
Request for Academic Reference Letter
Dear Professor Smith,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for graduate school and was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I really enjoyed your class and I believe you would be able to speak to my academic strengths and achievements.
If you would be willing to write me a reference letter, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
John Doe
Request for Employment Reference Letter
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a job and was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I enjoyed working with you at XYZ Company and I believe you would be able to speak to my skills and accomplishments.
If you would be willing to write me a reference letter, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Request for Volunteer Reference Letter
Dear Mrs. Brown,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a volunteer position and was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I volunteered with you at the local animal shelter and I believe you would be able to speak to my passion for animals and dedication.
If you would be willing to write me a reference letter, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Samantha Smith
Request for Scholarship Reference Letter
Dear Dr. Lee,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a scholarship and was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I was a student in your biology class and I believe you would be able to speak to my academic achievements and potential.
If you would be willing to write me a reference letter, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Tom Smith
Request for Graduate School Reference Letter
Dear Professor Patel,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for graduate school and was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I was a student in your economics class and I believe you would be able to speak to my analytical skills and academic achievements.
If you would be willing to write me a reference letter, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Emily Jones
Request for Internship Reference Letter
Dear Mr. Garcia,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for an internship and was wondering if you would be willing to write me a reference letter. I interned with you at ABC Company and I believe you would be able to speak to my work ethic and problem-solving skills.
If you would be willing to write me a reference letter, I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Michael Johnson
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my request for a reference letter?
When requesting a reference letter, provide your reference writer with specific information about the position or program you’re applying for. This will help them tailor the letter to the specific requirements. Also, offer to provide them with additional information if needed and give ample time to write the letter.
Who should I ask to write a reference letter?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities. This may be a former boss, teacher or mentor.
What if I’m applying for multiple positions? Can I use the same reference letter?
You should have a separate reference letter for each position you’re applying to. This allows the letter to be tailored to the specific requirements of the position.
What if I need a reference letter quickly?
Be upfront with your reference writer about your timeline and ask if they’re able to accommodate your request. If they can’t, find someone else who can write the letter in the timeframe you need.
How important is a reference letter in the application process?
A reference letter can be a critical part of the application process. It provides insight into your character and can highlight your skills and accomplishments. A strong reference letter can set you apart from other applicants.
What if my reference writer declines my request?
If your reference writer declines your request, thank them for their time and consider finding someone else who can write the letter for you.
Conclusion
A reference letter can be a valuable asset in the application process. By following the tips and examples provided, you can create a request for reference letter that highlights your strengths and accomplishments. Remember to choose the right person, give ample time, be specific, provide context, and offer assistance. Good luck!