Requesting reference letters

November at the Times is dedicated to a series of articles from Sharon K Couzens de Hinojosa, the creator and writer of TEFL Tips, The LA Job List, and The Ultimate Peru List.

I’m all for asking for reference letters when you’re about to finish your contract. Getting a reference letter now rather than waiting until later has it’s benefits. First, your boss will be more likely to remember details about your position. Second, your boss is still there. If she/he moves on, you could easily lose contact. Third, you’re still working there and can remind your boss. Let’s face it, our employers are busy and might forget.

However, if you’ve left a job and didn’t get a recommendation letter, don’t worry, it’s not to late. You can still request one. You might have to remind your boss about details, such as when you worked there or what your responsibilities were.

Whether you’re still working at the institute that you’re requesting a reference letter or you have moved on, there are essential pieces of information that every reference letter should include. It might help you to give your boss the template below. Sometimes you may be asked to help your boss write your reference letter, this is especially common if English isn’t their first language. Just follow the template below.

Asking for a reference letter
Dear (Name)

My name is (name) and I worked at your institute (dates) as a (job title). I am currently applying for a position in/at (country or institute). In order to apply for this position I must submit reference letters and I would like to know if you would be able to write a reference letter for me. If possible, could you please include two copies- one for my application and one for my personal records. I understand that you are very busy and have included a template to help you. I greatly appreciate your help with my application. Thank you so much for your time to get this done quickly.

Sincerely,
(Your name)
(Your postal address so they can snail mail you the letter)

What a reference letter should contain

This is the basic information that a good reference letter should contain. You might want to give this information to your boss to make sure that they include everything.

● How you know the applicant.
● What the applicant did for you and when.
● What would make the applicant a good candidate for the position they are applying for.
● Any additional responsibilites: workshops, newsletters, level coordinator, student placement, etc.
● Letters should be on professional letterhead.
● Include your contact information (address, phone, email address).
● Include your position.
● Signature in ink on paper.
● Make sure it’s dated.

About the author

Sharon K Couzens de Hinojosa is the creator and writer for TEFL Tips, The LA Job List, and The Ultimate Peru List. She enjoys answering people’s questions about TEFLing and Peru.