A Thank-You Letter for Recommendation is written by an individual who was endorsed for a job application, academic program enrollment, or any other opportunity. It aims to express the individual’s gratitude and acknowledge the time and effort someone invested in writing a letter of recommendation or endorsing their capabilities as a referrer.
A well-crafted thank you for a recommendation letter reflects well on you and keeps the door open for future collaborations with your recommenders.
Why It’s Important
A thank you letter for recommendation is appreciated for several reasons:
- It acknowledges the time and effort your recommenders put into assisting your career or academic aspirations. This simple act of acknowledgment can enhance your professional image, demonstrating your maturity and attention to detail.
- It strengthens your relationships with the recommenders. Such gestures contribute to a culture of gratitude and kindness within your professional community, fostering stronger connections and mutual respect.
- It enhances your professional image. This gesture reflects well on you as a diligent and considerate individual, which can be favorable in the eyes of influential figures in your field. A well-crafted thank you letter can leave a lasting impression.
Is it appropriate to send a thank-you gift?
It’s not necessary to buy gifts for those who write you recommendation letters. Personal gestures like a heartfelt note or card are often cherished and can serve as a source of encouragement for the recommender. Gifts might make the recommender feel uncomfortable, especially considering the power dynamic in relationships like student-teacher or mentor-mentee.
When to Send
Consider sending two separate thank-you letters for recommendation:
- Send one when you first received the letter (or after the recommender submitted the letter). This gesture professionally acknowledges the effort the recommender put into writing the letter. It also makes you more memorable.
- Send the second one as soon as the outcome of your application is revealed. Expressing gratitude, even if the result is not what you hoped for, demonstrates professionalism and appreciation for their support. This can strengthen your relationship with the recommender and maintain their willingness to assist you in the future.
Electronic vs Handwritten Thank-You Letter
When deciding between electronic and handwritten thank-you letters, consider the context and your relationship with the recipient.
Electronic Letter
- Good for: Fast-paced professional environments, high-tech fields, recipients who live elsewhere
- Advantages: Ensures timely message receipt; quick communication; aligns with industry practices and expectations
- When to Choose: When speed and efficiency are crucial
Handwritten Note
- Good for: Traditional or relationship-focused industries
- Advantages: Shows personal commitment and significant effort; creates a lasting impression and deeper emotional connection
- When to Choose: When aiming to stand out, building lasting relationships by demonstrating sincere gratitude
How to Write
Your thank you letter should be short and to the point. Ensure that your message is clear and concise, which respects the recipient’s time and helps in conveying your gratitude without overburdening them.
Step 1: Greetings
Start with a polite and personalized greeting. Address the recommender by their proper title and last name to show respect and professionalism.
Step 2: Express Your Gratitude
Clearly state what you are thankful for, and personalize the message by mentioning how their support has impacted you. This not only makes the recipient feel valued but also reinforces the positive aspects of your professional relationship.
You may also want to mention specific details from your meeting or conversation with the recommender to show your attentiveness and gratitude.
Step 3: Provide an Update
Briefly inform them of the outcome of your application or any progress you have made as a result of their recommendation. This keeps them in the loop and shows the impact of their effort.
Step 4: Reciprocate
Offer your assistance or reciprocate their kindness by expressing your willingness to help them in the future. This strengthens your professional relationship.
Step 5: Proofread
Before sending your thank you letter, take the time to proofread it carefully. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that names and details are correct. A well-edited letter reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, which can significantly influence how your message is received.
Thank You Letter for Recommendation: Examples
Example 1: After a Successful Interview
Email Subject: Thank You for Your Recommendation
Dear Mr. Green,
I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the letter of recommendation you wrote for my job application. Your kind words about my project management skills and our collaboration on the GreenTech initiative were incredibly supportive.
I am delighted to inform you that I have been offered the position of Senior Project Manager at EcoInnovations Inc. Your recommendation played a crucial role in securing this opportunity, and I am very grateful.
Please feel free to reach out if you ever need my assistance with anything. I would be more than happy to help in any way I can. Thank you once again for your support and encouragement.
Best regards,
Luna Beverly
Example 2: After Acceptance of an MBA Program
Dear Dr. Summer,
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the letter of recommendation you provided for my graduate school application despite your busy schedule. Your support and kind words about my work during our discussion on the application truly made a difference.
I am thrilled to share that I have been accepted into the prestigious MBA program at Harvard Business School. Your recommendation was instrumental in this achievement, and I cannot thank you enough for your help.
If there is ever anything I can assist you with, please do not hesitate to reach out. I am always happy to help. Thank you again for your invaluable support.
Best regards,
Matt Watson
Example 3: After College Applications
Dear Ms. Winter,
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for the letter of recommendation you wrote for my college applications. Your support and advice on my school choices and applications were deeply appreciated.
Although I did not get into my dream college, I am pleased to inform you that I have been accepted by State University and Riverdale College. Your recommendation was instrumental in these successes, and I am very grateful for your help.
If there is anything I can do to assist you in the future, please do not hesitate to let me know. I am always here to help. Thank you again for your continued support and encouragement.
Sincerely,
Jack Smith
Thank You Letter for Recommendation Sample
Copy our free sample or download a customizable letter of recommendation template below.
Dear ________________________ [Recommender’s name],
I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the letter of recommendation you wrote for my (Check one) ☐ college ☐ graduate school ☐ job ☐ other: ________________________ application. Your kind words about my skills and our collaboration were deeply appreciated.
I am delighted to inform you that I have been accepted for ________________________ [Position/Program applied for] at ________________________ [Name of entity/institution]. Your recommendation played a crucial role in securing this opportunity, and I cannot thank you enough for your help.
Please feel free to reach out if you ever need my assistance with anything. I would be more than happy to help in any way I can. Thank you once again for your support and encouragement.
Best regards,
________________________ [Applicant’s name]
