Whenever someone writes you a letter of recommendation, you should formally thank them.
We have included a sample recommendation thank you letter that you can use as a template for writing your own.
Tips for writing this letter…
Respect the person: The purpose of writing this thank you note is to keep your relationship with this person intact. Someone who goes out of their way to recommend you for something will probably be able to assist you in some other way in the future.
Never burn bridges. Be sure to keep them in pristine condition.
Making progress in your career requires a strong network. You can maintain a strong network if you show how appreciative you are.
Provide something in return: You may not have as much to offer as the person who referred you. But consider making a gesture of thanks.
Everyone is capable of providing value in some way. A reciprocal gesture, even if it’s just to buy lunch one day, will make your gratitude seem more sincere.
You shouldn’t write a novel: People are busy. Do not waste another hour with a four-page essay outlining how grateful you are to them for writing you a recommendation.
You’ll be able to make your point much more effectively if you keep your letter short. The same applies to most types of professional correspondence.
Related Sample Letters…
Mentor Thank You Letters
Internship Thank You Letters
Recommendation Thank You Sample
Here is an example of a well-worded thank you letter. You can use this as a template for writing your own.
Thank You Letter for Recommendation MM/DD/YY [Name] [Address] [City, State, Zip Code] Dear [Name], It was a pleasure to have you write a letter of recommendation for me despite your (undoubtedly) busy schedule. Several companies offered me positions that were on my wish list after I wrote my letter, so it seems it was well received. I appreciate your kindness. You are here to teach and guide our future generations, but I have never encountered a professor who is so dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of his students. As a student of yours, I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from you. The final decision on where I work will be made after I have completed all the interviews. Because you've already given me so much good advice, I know that I'll make the right decision. Your role as my teacher and mentor has been an unparalleled pleasure and honor. You have shared a great deal of knowledge and wisdom with me and I truly appreciate the time, effort, and sincerity you have devoted to writing a letter on my behalf. As I progress, and as I decide where to work, I will keep you posted. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you in the meantime. I'll be in Boston until at least the end of the fall, and I'd love to help you in any way I can. Thanks again professor, Sincerely, [Your Name]
You don’t think that’s too hard, do you?
Your recommendation thank you note can always be spiced up with an appropriate quote if you want to. Despite the fact that it is not needed.