Letters of Recommendation

• Recommendation Letters are most often used for specific programs, like graduate school.

References

• Most employers will ask for a list of references as part of the job interview or application
• If creating a references page, use the same heading and format as your resume. Make sure to include your relationship to the reference along with their contact information.

Tips for Asking

• Choose the right professor, employer, or supervisor. Ask yourself: Does this person know my name? Have I done quality work in their course or organization? Does this person respect me? Will this person advocate for me?
• Plan Ahead! Prepare your request ahead of time - don't wait until the last minute. Make sure to give letter writers several weeks.
• Consider meeting in person vs writing an email, especially for a letter of recommendation.
• Articulate your interests, goals, and detailed information about the opportunity. Provide a current copy of your resume.
• Make sure you give them the details. If a letter is needed, where is it sent and when is the deadline?
• Thank Them!

Thank-You Letters

Thank You Letters can be used after interviews, networking calls, or to thank references/other professional contacts. Thank you letters can be emailed or handwritten.
Thank You Letters Should:

• Be written after every interview.
• Be sent as soon as possible, and within the week (but a late thank you letter is better than none at all).
• Be formal and professional.
• Be individualized (If you had an interview with more than one person, you should send letters to each person with whom you spoke, if possible)

What's In A Thank You Note?

First Paragraph

Thank the person for meeting with you. Remind them of the date of your meeting or interview and the position or topics discussed.

Second Paragraph

Reaffirm your interest in the organization. Mention any personal characteristics, work
experience, or other information that may be pertinent to the position but was not mentioned
in the interview. If you feel any of your responses were inadequate during your interview,
this is also the opportunity to provide a more well thought out response.

Final Paragraph

Wrap up what you have said in the preceding paragraphs and offer the employer a phone
number where you can be reached for further questions. Another phrase thanking
the employer for his or her time and consideration is usually added to close the letter.