A recommendation request asks for more than a signature. The writer needs time to recall your work, choose examples, and follow submission instructions. Help them make an informed choice by explaining the opportunity and why you are asking them specifically.

Choose someone who knows your work

A detailed letter from someone who has observed you may be more useful than a vague letter from someone with an impressive title. Think about who can describe relevant skills, improvement, reliability, or contribution through actual examples. Ask whether the person feels able to write a supportive recommendation. Give them room to decline without explaining personal circumstances. If the deadline is unusually close, acknowledge that and have an alternative plan.

Sample request

Example to adapt
Subject: Recommendation request for [opportunity] Hello [name], I am applying for [program or role], which focuses on [relevant area]. Would you feel comfortable writing a supportive recommendation based on our work together on [specific project or experience]? The submission deadline is [date and time zone]. The letter would be submitted through [official method]. If you are available, I can send the instructions, my current résumé, and a brief summary of the work we did together. I thought of you because you saw [specific skill or contribution]. I understand if your schedule does not allow it, and I appreciate your consideration either way. Thank you, [name]

Send a useful support packet

After they agree, provide the exact deadline, the destination, the opportunity description, and any required format. Include a few factual reminders of shared work, not a set of exaggerated claims you expect them to repeat. Let the recommender write in their own voice. Follow the application's confidentiality and submission rules. Do not assume you should collect or read the letter yourself. If the system sends an invitation, tell the writer what sender or subject to expect without forwarding sensitive account credentials.

Follow up with care

Agree on whether a reminder would help. Keep reminders brief and factual, and stop once submission is confirmed. Thank the writer afterward and, when appropriate, let them know the outcome. Their effort deserves acknowledgment even if the application is unsuccessful.

Make the next draft yours.

Adapt examples to your situation and verify names, details, and requirements before sharing.Suggest a correction →