Strategies for Obtaining Letters of Recommendation When Unfamiliar

Whether you're applying for a job, a scholarship, or an academic program, letters of recommendation can be a powerful tool to showcase your skills, experiences, and character. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you don't know many people who can write such letters, fear not! Here are some effective strategies to help you build the connections necessary for obtaining strong recommendations.

Identify Potential Recommenders

To start, identify individuals who could serve as strong recommenders. Consider the following types of people:

Professors or Instructors: If you are a student, reach out to professors from classes where you performed well. These individuals can speak to your academic abilities, dedication, and personal attributes. Employers or Supervisors: If you have held any jobs or internships, even briefly, your supervisor can often provide a recommendation based on your work ethic and skills. Volunteer Coordinators: If you have volunteered, a coordinator can speak to your contributions and character, highlighting your commitment to community service.

Build Connections

The key to obtaining a strong letter of recommendation is to build a relationship with the person before asking for their help. Here are some strategies:

Attend Office Hours: If you're still in school, visit professors during their office hours to discuss your interests, goals, and academic progress. This can lay the groundwork for a future recommendation. Networking Events: Attend workshops, seminars, or networking events related to your field. This can help you meet professionals who could potentially become recommenders. Request Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your field for informational interviews. This can help you build rapport and may lead to a stronger networking relationship that could result in a recommendation.

In addition, consider leveraging LinkedIn. Connect with former classmates, colleagues, or professors on the platform. Engage with their content and consider reaching out for recommendations.

Be Transparent and Provide Context

When asking for a recommendation, it's important to be transparent and provide the necessary context:

Explain Your Situation: When you reach out, explain your situation honestly. Let the potential recommender know your goals and why you are seeking their recommendation. Offer a Resume and Brief Description: Provide a resume and a brief description of your achievements, skills, and the context of the recommendation. This will help them write a more personalized and impactful letter for you.

Remember, the more information you provide, the more effective the letter is likely to be.

Follow Up Politely

To ensure that the letter is completed in time, follow up politely as the deadline approaches:

Provide Necessary Deadlines: When you ask for a letter, provide any necessary deadlines and follow up politely as the deadline approaches. This helps avoid any delays and ensures that the letter arrives in a timely manner.

Consider Professional Services

If you find it particularly challenging to build the necessary connections, consider seeking the help of professional services. Some organizations and services specialize in helping individuals obtain recommendations or build their professional network.

By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of finding someone willing and able to write you a strong letter of recommendation. Good luck!