Thank You Emails
Thank You Email for Recommendation Email Template
Express sincere gratitude to someone who wrote a recommendation or reference letter on your behalf.
When to use this template
A colleague, professor, or mentor took the time to write a recommendation letter or serve as a reference for you, and you want to thank them properly.
Example subject line
Thank You for Your Recommendation — It Truly Means a Lot
Tips for writing this email
- Send the thank you as soon as you know the recommendation has been submitted — do not wait until you hear back about the outcome.
- Mention the specific opportunity the recommendation was for so they know their effort is connected to something meaningful to you.
- Let them know the outcome once you hear back, whether positive or not — people who advocate for you appreciate being kept in the loop.
- Consider a handwritten note in addition to the email for a particularly impactful recommendation — it shows an extra level of thoughtfulness.
What to avoid
- Do not treat the thank you as an afterthought — writing a recommendation takes real time and effort, and a delayed or missing thank you is noticed.
- Avoid asking for additional favors in the same email — keep it purely about gratitude.
- Do not assume they know the outcome — always circle back to share the result and thank them again regardless of whether you got the position or opportunity.
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Generate This EmailFrequently Asked Questions
How soon should I thank someone for writing a recommendation?
Send a thank you email within 24 hours of learning the recommendation was submitted. If you asked them in advance and they agreed, send a brief thank you when they confirm it is done. Promptness shows you do not take their effort for granted.
Should I tell my recommender the outcome of my application?
Yes, always. Whether you were accepted, hired, or not, let them know. If the outcome was positive, they will feel good about their contribution. If not, they will appreciate the closure and may offer to help again in the future.
Is a gift appropriate in addition to a thank you email?
A small, thoughtful gift like a coffee gift card or a handwritten note is a nice touch for someone who went above and beyond, but it is not expected. The most important thing is a sincere, timely thank you email that acknowledges the specific effort they made.
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