Letters
Of Recommendation
Many of you will need letters
of recommendation for either that new
job or graduate education. Here are
some points to consider.
Important In The
Overall Evaluation
Even if it is not required,
60% of recruiters put considerable emphasis
on letters of recommendation, so if you
are in a position to secure one, go for
it.
This Is Your Candidate,
I'm Telling You…
A letter of recommendation
is important because it is a third party
assessment of you. This is very important
so make sure that this person has clout,
is respected and knows you.
Don't Be Shy
It may be intimidating
to ask someone for a recommendation, but
get used to it. You will have to ask for
favors throughout your life. The trick is
to make it sound like you are doing them
a favor.
What Is Important?
Letters of recommendation
should emphasize your role in class, school
and the greater community.
Familiarity
It is best to ask someone
that knows you in another context, not just
school. If there is one thing that you were
interested in and dedicated yourself to,
try to get a letter of recommendation from
people in power that you interacted with.
Be Clear
When you do ask someone
for a letter, do not be shy to explain what
it is for and who will read it.
Break It Down
Make it so simple that
they cannot say no. Explain what the recipient
of the letter is looking for but do not
tell them what to write (even though a few
may ask).
Why Them?
Do not be afraid to let
the person know why you are asking them.
This will help them in formulating the letter.
Why that teacher?
Why this advisor?
Thank Them
While it may be seen as
part of their job description, the truth
is that a professor is going the extra mile
for you, so thank them.
Do The Legwork
Get the necessary forms
ready and consider the red tape. Chances
are that this will fall on you so get your
act together and do not wait until the last
second.
Let's Get Personal
As a general rule, personal
letters work better than generic ones. That
will help you stand
out. |
