The Do’s and Don’ts of Asking for a Letter of Recommendation

Do’s:

1. Ask politely and well in advance of the deadline. This shows respect for the person’s time and allows them to plan accordingly.
2. Provide all necessary information, such as the purpose of the letter, the deadline, and any specific requirements or guidelines provided by the College or Official.
3. Offer to provide any additional materials that may help them write the letter, such as a resume or transcript.
4. Follow up with a thank-you note or email after receiving the letter.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for a letter. This puts unnecessary pressure on the writer and may result in a less thoughtful or detailed letter Or may cause the writer to turn the letter in late.
2. Don’t assume that the person will agree to write the letter without first asking. It’s important to show respect for their decision and not take it personally if they decline.
3. Don’t forget to proofread and edit your own materials before sharing them with the letter writer. Typos and errors can reflect poorly on both you and the person writing the letter.
4. Don’t be afraid to follow up if you haven’t received the letter by the deadline. However, make sure to approach the conversation tactfully and with understanding and avoid being confrontational or accusatory.