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Email Requesting a Recommendation
You need a strong recommendation letter or LinkedIn endorsement, but asking feels awkward. This template removes the guesswork and makes it easy for your contact to say yes by being specific about what you need and why.
About This Template
You need a strong recommendation letter or LinkedIn endorsement, but asking feels awkward. This template removes the guesswork and makes it easy for your contact to say yes by being specific about what you need and why.
Subject Line Options
The Template
Subject: [SUBJECT LINE CHOICE] Hi [RECIPIENT NAME], I hope you're doing well. I'm reaching out because I have a lot of respect for your perspective on my work, and I'm hoping you might be willing to help. I'm [BRIEF CONTEXT: applying for X role / pursuing X opportunity / updating my LinkedIn profile], and a recommendation from you would really strengthen my candidacy. Specifically, I'd love you to speak to [SPECIFIC SKILL OR EXAMPLE: how we collaborated on X project / your observation of X strength / the outcome of X situation]. If you're open to it, I'd make this as easy as possible. Here's what I need: • [Letter of recommendation / LinkedIn recommendation / reference check] • Due by: [SPECIFIC DATE] • Length: [e.g., one page, 2–3 sentences] • Format: [e.g., email to me, submitted directly to X] I'm also happy to provide you with my resume, a draft outline, or any other details that would help jog your memory or make writing this easier. No pressure at all—I completely understand if your schedule doesn't allow for it. Either way, I appreciate you taking the time to consider this. Thanks so much, [YOUR NAME]
Replace all text in [brackets] with your specific information before sending.
Why It Works
Specific context about what you need
Vague requests get vague responses or no response. Telling them exactly what type of recommendation and why shows you've thought this through and aren't just mass-emailing.
One concrete example they can reference
This jogs their memory and gives them material to work with. They'll write faster and more authentically because they know exactly what moment or skill you want highlighted.
Clear logistics (format, length, deadline)
Removes friction. People say no to vague asks. When you spell out exactly what's needed, it's harder to say no—and easier for them to follow through.
Offer to make it easier for them
Shows respect for their time. Offering a resume, outline, or talking points removes the blank-page problem and signals you're not asking lightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕Asking without context—'Can you write me a recommendation?' with no detail about what for or why.
- ✕Waiting until the last minute—requesting a favor with a deadline one week away or less.
- ✕Using a generic template that sounds like it was sent to 20 people—always personalize with specific examples.
- ✕Not giving them a way to make it easier—don't just ask, offer to provide a resume or bullet points.
- ✕Following up more than twice—if they don't respond after two polite follow-ups, let it go.
💡 Pro Tip
Send this email on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning, not Friday or Monday. People are more likely to commit to favors mid-week when they feel less overwhelmed, and you'll get a response sooner.
Complete the Picture
A well-written recommendation request email deserves a professional signature that matches the care you put into the message. Your email signature is the last thing they see before deciding whether to help—make sure it looks polished.
Frequently Asked Questions
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