INTRODUCTION:

What is a letter of recommendation?

A letter of recommendation is a formalized letter from a previous manager, professor, or someone who
can vouch for your skill, performance, and character. It should also outline why they believe you are a
great candidate for the role at hand. This kind of letter clearly dictates why a person is qualified, and
what makes them the right fit.

TIPS TO TURNDOWN A REFERENCE REQUEST:

· BE POLITE

· EXPLAIN THAT YOU DON'T KNOW THEM WELL ENOUGH

· TELL THE TRUTH

· ALWAYS USE "I" STATEMENT

· DECLINE BECAUSE YOU CAN'T RECOMMEND THEM

· KEEP YOUR CONVERSATION CONCISE

DO'S AND DON'TS WHEN ASKING FOR LETTER OF

RECOMMENDATION

DO'S OF ASKING FOR LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION

· CHOOSE YOUR RECOMMENDERS CAREFULLY

· REQUEST A LETTER FORMALLY

· PROVIDE INFORMATION

· OUTLINE YOUR SKILLS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

DON'TS OF ASKING FOR LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
· USE A REFERENCE WITHOUT THEIR PERMISSION

· PROVIDE FALSE INFORMATION

· GET UPSET IF SOMEONE SAYS NO

· FORGET TO SAY THANK YOU

WE LEARN THAT:
Turning down someone’s reference request can be awkward, upsetting, and embarrassing for
both parties.Try not to feel guilty. Remember that it’s better to turn the person down than to
provide a less-than-stellar recommendation.

RECOMMENDATION:
· You're not obligated to provide someone with a reference.

· When you need to decline a reference request, try to do so promptly.

· You don't need to share details about why you're declining.

· Remember you are not doing anything wrong.