For example, if the letters are for potential job opportunities, managers or colleagues with experience observing and working with you may be able to provide the most valuable insights. Whom you choose may depend on the reason you need the recommendation.

Create a referral list of 5–10 individualsįirst, consider which individuals in your network are most qualified to write you a letter of recommendation. When requesting a letter of recommendation, there are a few steps you can take to make the process efficient and professional: 1. Related: How To Ask Someone to Be Your Reference (Plus Email Examples) How to ask for a letter of recommendation When a letter of recommendation is not required, you might want to consider sending the letters as attachments to your application or in the follow-up email after your interview to help you stand apart. Make sure to read over the job or program application instructions carefully to determine if a letter of recommendation is required. Here are a few examples of when you may consider acquiring letters of recommendation: While many employers favor references over letters of recommendation, there are circumstances where having letters of recommendation are required or encouraged.

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