If you’ll be leaving the company to seek further employment, and would like a letter of recommendation from your boss, consider asking up to six months in advance. This will give your boss enough time to look for a suitable replacement.
For example, if you’re in the middle of a project, wait until you’ve completed the work. Then, when asking your boss for the letter, mention the hard work that you put into the project.
It’s always wise to ask for a letter of recommendation in person; asking via email can seem impersonal or distant. That said, if you or your boss are traveling for a long period of time, or if the letter is time-sensitive, you can ask via email if necessary.
“I’m applying to graduate school, and hoping to begin next fall. I know the letters of recommendation will carry a lot of weight with the selection committee and, since you’ve been my supervisor for several years, I’d appreciate if you would write a letter recommending me on the strength of my work and my work ethic. ”
Say something like, “I’ve enjoyed my 10 years of work here, and during that time I feel that I’ve contributed valuable work to the company. I’ve decided to advance my career by applying for a position at XYZ Company. Would you be willing to write me a letter of recommendation for the new position?”
“I’d like you to write this letter because I think you have a good understanding of my work ethic and how much I devote myself to projects and assignments that come my way. ” “A recommendation from you would show my new supervisor that I get along well with people in management and can follow directions well. ”
“I’d appreciate if you mentioned early in the letter that we’ve worked together for 10 years; that should give your endorsement more authority. ” “Since this is for a housing application, it would help if you mentioned my ability to keep my workspace clean and to meet financial deadlines. ”
Say something like, “I just wanted to make sure that the letter you’re going to write will be a strong endorsement of me and not contain negative information. ”
Also be ready to refresh your boss’s memory regarding details work you’ve done in your current position. Most supervisors manage many employees, and will need reminding about specifics of work that individuals have performed. [9] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Business Review Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices Go to source
If your boss declines (whether over email or face-to-face) to write you a letter, remain polite and do not become angry. Say something brief, such as: “I understand your reason for declining. Thank you for at least considering my request. ”
