recommendation letter question

Question

If I apply for a B-school, do I need a recommendation letter which was distinctively written for that purpose (i.e. mentions things like "i would really recommend Mr.X for an MBA) or would a letter of recommendation from a former employer, which I received when I left the company, work as well?

I have a very positive letter of recommendation from my former employer, which I left about two years ago.

What do you think?

Thank you

GMATobliterator · Answer

Perhaps you could get the employer to modify it, specifically targeting an MBA this time? Assuming you still have a strong relationship with him/her after two years...

riverripper · Answer

You will need to get them to redo it...sorry to say schools typically require stuff to be submitted online and also have checklists placing you in the top 5%, top 25%, 50%, bottom 10% etc...

zakk · Answer

Additionally, a primer on the schools you are apply for, along with a bit about what you're hoping to do would be helpful to those writing the reco's as well.

There are a few templates floating around out there.

wwww · Answer

Guys, actually is it a good idea to take a recommendation from my former supervisor at a company which I left two years ago? I am sure that I will get a great recommendation, but I worry that this reference might be too old already.

What do you think?

What do you think?

k88 · Answer

I might use it as a secondary reference--- the first from your current direct superior, the second from your old boss (the one you have a good letter from)

bigfernhead · Answer

In regards to recommendation letters, how important is the title of person writing the recommendation.

Vice President vs Director vs Managing Director... Do Bschools notice the difference?

k88 · Answer

I really don't think that schools care about title unless its a glowing reference from an ultra big wig...if its just ho-hum from somebody important they will wonder why you didn't get somebody with a less impressive title who knows you better.

greenoak · Answer

In general, it depends on your particular situation and on the specific school, but I think it's OK. However, I believe that the more recent second recommendation is advised in this case. Or, alternatively, if you continued to deal with your former supervisor in your professional quality, you may ask him to mention it. Also, I agree with others that you may need to adjust this recommendation: each school asks its own specific questions. So I think it will be an additional advantage if your former boss recommends you specifically for the MBA at the given school.

recommendation letter question

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