How to Follow Up About a Letter of Recommendation
Writing a letter of recommendation is a significant gesture, and it’s important to ensure that it reaches its intended destination. After sending your recommendation letter, it’s a good practice to follow up to ensure that it has been received and submitted on time. This article will guide you through the process of how to follow up about a letter of recommendation effectively.
1. Wait the Right Amount of Time
After sending the recommendation letter, give it a few days to a week to arrive. This allows sufficient time for the letter to be processed and sent to the intended recipient. If the deadline for the recommendation is approaching, you may want to follow up sooner rather than later.
2. Send a Follow-Up Email
Compose a professional email to the person who requested the recommendation. Start by thanking them for considering you as a reference. Then, mention that you have sent the letter and would like to ensure it has been received. Here’s an example of what your email could look like:
Subject: Follow-Up on Recommendation Letter for [Your Name]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the recommendation letter I sent for [Your Name] on [Date]. I wanted to ensure that the letter has been received and submitted to the appropriate party.
Thank you for considering me as a reference. If there are any further steps I need to take, please let me know. I’m more than happy to assist.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
3. Call if Necessary
If you haven’t received a response to your email within a reasonable timeframe, consider giving the person a call. This can be a more personal way to ensure that the letter has been received. When calling, be polite and professional, and ask if they have received the letter and if there are any further steps you need to take.
4. Keep Track of Deadlines
Make sure to keep track of any deadlines associated with the recommendation letter. This will help you determine the appropriate time to follow up. If the deadline is approaching, it’s essential to follow up promptly to avoid any delays in the application process.
5. Express Gratitude
Regardless of the outcome, always express your gratitude to the person who wrote the recommendation letter. Let them know that you appreciate their time and effort in supporting your application.
In conclusion, following up about a letter of recommendation is a crucial step in ensuring that it reaches its intended destination. By waiting the right amount of time, sending a follow-up email, calling if necessary, keeping track of deadlines, and expressing gratitude, you can help ensure that your recommendation letter is submitted on time and contributes positively to your application.
