merimark9 wrote:
I approached two of my recommenders a while ago to ask them if they would be willing to provide a letter for my application and they replied positively but didn't give me much of an idea of what they want or need from me. Some people say they were asked to write an outline of a letter with details they could use. Others have said you should just provide them with a resume. Any suggestions for the best way to go about getting the most from a recommender, or do they already know what to do?
You can provide them with a 1-2 page document that briefly outlines your achievements and the stories behind them. Something like the " time when I did ....XYZ" and a short story following it.
Eventually your recommenders will use the format asked by the b-school: these could be a set of 5-7 questions, or a free flowing recommendation. These pointers will help in both cases.
Don't assume that your recommenders know what to do - I am sure you will not want to take that chance.
And do get on this process well before submission date- you don't want to be in a lurch until the end, wondering whether your recommenders will do do the needful.
Namita.