jjomalls wrote:
Linda-
I've got arguably the toughest part of the app process coming up, as I am planning to approach my current boss about a recommendation in the next two weeks (I'm applying early round to a few schools, so I want to give him 2 full months to write/prepare).
My question is: how should I best approach him?
A bit of background - we're a very small firm (4 people) and I think he'll be very disappointed/sad that I've decided to leave and return to school. My plan is to stay another whole year, until mid-next summer, to work there, find and train a replacement, and ensure that things are smooth once I leave. Of course, I have no idea if he'll share the same opinion of the future....
He'll write a very good rec, once he lets his emotions subside....I think.
What do you suggest I do? I've read various pieces of advice, from taking your essays in as part of a "roadmap" for the meeting (and I dont have mine nearly complete yet), to having a detailed list of every accomplishment I've done at the firm.
What do you recommend? Thanks!
Justin,
Thanks for the reminder. I actually replied, but the reply got lost. Sorry for the delay.
In any case, here are some suggestions:
1) If you are not confident that your boss will write a good recommendation, then don't ask him.
2) If your essay isn't ready, then provide him with the following (which might be better than the essay even if yours are ready): a list of your accomplishments on the job, copies of reviews, and a brief description of key values at the schools he will be writing recommendations to. I would also provide him with a copy of "
10 Tips for Recommenders."
3) Ask for an appointment to ask him for the recommendations; don't try to catch him on the run, between meetings, or in the hall.
Good luck!