aggarwalanant wrote:
Thanks a lot for replying.
If I plan to take my chances and still ask him for a recommendation, how far ahead in the application process is it reasonable to do so? Also, what would be a good way to approach him?
-Anant
1 month would be the absolute minimum. (1 month prior to the submission deadline). I gave my rec people 2.5 months, and prodded them every 2 weeks or so.
I'd just be up front (assuming you are sure you want to take the risk). It would help if you had a rationale for him, why you're looking for b-school (he may feel personally hurt, or something, and this will help him to write a better rec). Mention you've enjoyed working there, but you just don't see meeting your career goal... You should definitely give him an out, "ie if you don't think you have the time, please tell me now, and I'll find someone else". You want to make sure he has plenty of time and feel comfortable.
Also, you should comment - you'll apply, and see what happens. This leaves open the door that you'd stick around AND maybe you could get a promotion/raise out of it...
Absolutely make sure you're comfortable with him writing the rec - it is stressful having this facet of your application outside your direct control....