Craft an Effective Email Request for a Job or Opportunity Recommendation

When it comes to landing a job or other professional opportunity, having a strong recommendation can be a critical factor in your success. 

However, asking someone to write a recommendation for you can be a delicate task, especially if you are not familiar with the person. Crafting an effective email request is crucial to obtaining the recommendation you need. 

In this post, we discuss some best practices and provide a sample template to help you write an email request that will get results.

Things to Remember

• Choose the Right Person: Select someone who knows you and your work well and who is in a position of authority. This can be a former boss, supervisor, or professor.
• Be Clear and Concise: Clearly state what you are asking for and why you need it. Make sure your email is concise and easy to read.
• Be Polite and Professional: Show respect for the person you are asking and use a polite, professional tone. Remember to thank them in advance for their time and consideration.
• Provide Context: Explain why you are seeking the recommendation and what it will be used for. This will help the person understand what you are asking for and how they can best support you.

Best Practices

• Personalize Your Email: Customize your email to the person you are asking. Include details that demonstrate you have put some thought into the request.
• Provide Supporting Materials: Attach a copy of your resume or other relevant materials to help the person understand your background and qualifications.
• Follow-Up: If you do not receive a response within a week or two, consider a polite follow-up email to remind the person of your request.

Sample Template

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a recommendation for a job/opportunity I am applying for. I have admired your work for some time and would be honored to have your support in this process.

[Provide Context: Explain what the job/opportunity is and why you are interested in it. Mention any relevant details about the position or organization.]

I would appreciate your speaking about my skills and qualifications for this opportunity. [Provide Details: Highlight your skills and achievements in a few bullet points.]

If you can provide a recommendation, please let me know what additional information you may need from me. I have attached my resume and other relevant materials to this email for your reference.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I truly appreciate any support you can offer.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Conclusion

Asking for a recommendation can be intimidating, but a well-crafted email can make the process easier for yourself and the person you are asking. Remember to be precise, concise, polite, and professional, and provide the necessary context and supporting materials. 

By following these best practices and using the sample template provided, you can increase your chances of obtaining the recommendation you need to succeed in your job or other professional opportunities.