How to Write a Thank You for Recommendation Letter

Recommendation letters are crucial documents presented to companies or schools by individuals who may attest to an individual’s worth and qualifications. It is not uncommon for referrals to be used for admissions or scholarship offers. 

Sending a thank-you note, email, or card to the person who recommended you for a job is an excellent way to show appreciation. 

Understanding the proper format for sending a thank-you note is key to ensuring the message is effective. 

In this post, we’ll go through what to include in a recommendation thank you letter and present a sample to help you get started writing your own.

Why Is It Essential to Send a Thank-You for Recommendation Letter?

A recommendation letter is sometimes vital to move forward and be successful in the job market. As a professional gesture, a thank-you note will help maintain a good relationship with the person who referred you.

Thanking an establishment for a good recommendation letter is an essential part of good professional etiquette and leaves a good impression. 

 If you want their referrer to remember you in case you need another referral, send a thank-you note. Plan what you want to say in your thank-you notes, and then write them. It is a winning strategy!

How to Write a Thank You Letter

Writing and sending a thank you note can be done in various ways. Here’s how to write and send a thank you note that hits home.

1. Use the Correct Format

You can express your gratitude in various ways, including a handwritten note, an electronic message, or a card. If you need help deciding on a format, consider the following:

Think about what kind of communication style your referee usually employs. While some people prefer online for all their correspondence, others still value receiving a handwritten note or card in the mail. 

If you have time and think your referrer would quickly open the message, a physical format may be more beneficial.

You can say “thanks” electronically if you and your referrer often communicate via email. If you’re unsure about the right structure, you can always send a short email and a formal letter.

The letter can be used to provide further information regarding your employment search. In addition to showing your appreciation verbally, a handwritten note will also serve as a physical reminder to your referrer.

2. Adhere to a Simple Format

Creating an outline can assist if you struggle to put your thoughts into words when writing a letter. The following should be included in your message:

• A polite salutation, such as “Dear Ms. Daisy”
• A clear statement of thanks
• An update about the position you applied for
• A formal ending and your signature

3. Edit and Proofread

Proofreading is a vital step to ensuring your message is professional. Before sending your mail, reread the spelling and punctuation and verify any specific facts.

Taking a break between writing and reviewing your letter can help you assess it with a fresh perspective. You might also have a trusted friend or coworker review the letter from a different point of view.

4. Be Quick to Send It

Try to write your thank-you note shortly after receiving the recommendation letter.

Your timing will show your appreciation and professionalism. You can also send a follow-up mail whenever you receive an update on the hiring process.

Sample: Thank You for Recommendation Letter

Here are some models you can use as templates for your thank-you notes. These examples can serve as both a thank-you and follow-up letters to give the source an update on your employment search.

Sample: Thank You for Recommendation Letter

Subject: Letter of Recommendation⁠—Frances Nepal

Dear Mr. Stevens,

I genuinely appreciate the reference you gave me for Nissan Gardens. The hiring manager called me this morning to offer me a job.

I believe your reference was a significant part of the reason the manager offered me a position. Thank you again for taking the time to write me a thoughtful recommendation letter. I hope to stay in touch in the future.

Best regards,

Frances Nepal

Final Thoughts

Your referee likely wrote a letter highlighting your academic or professional achievements and specific qualities that could aid you in the role. It’s important that you show your gratitude in writing and give credit to a person who has helped you.