Who to ask for recommendation letters?

Question

Hi, 
I worked at a tech company as a software engineer for a year, then completely changed industry and started working at a bank in customer relations. 
I worked at the bank for 3 years where I had multiple supervisors and was promoted 2 times. 
Should I have one recommendation letter from my current supervisor and my previous supervisor at the tech company? Or is it okay if I have both recommenders from the bank (since I've been working for a while and traversed two departments)? 
What is a stronger case? 
Thank you!

divesh87 · Answer

Hi Mahm1977 In case of LORs it is advisable to choose your recommenders based on the quality of your time spent with them. A person who has seen you work hard and grow through the ranks would be better to write a LOR for you as they maybe able to give a stronger rationale for recommending you to B-School. So ideally I would suggest you chose both your current and previous supervisor in your current company. Your current supervisor is an absolute requirement as your 1st recommender and your previous supervisor maybe able to quote some solid instances from your past performance that led to your growth in the company. Hope this helps. If you need professional help with your applications. Please reach out. Best, Divesh Founder & Managing Consultant http://www.Top100MBA.Club hello@Top100MBA.Club Posted from my mobile device

admitStreet · Answer

Mahm1977 - Given that you've been with the bank for 3 years and it's more recent (than the tech co), the two supervisors at the bank would be good. This can help show your growth and experiences in the two departments. The goal is to have them talk about specific anecdotes/ traits about you that can supplement your application. Some further guidelines and best practices for LoR's can be found here . Regards, Arvind Founder, admitStreet W: https://admitstreet.com | LinkedIn | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com

kpop1234567890 · Answer

From what I have heard from seniors and reading various accounts, recency coupled with depth is good. Since the bank managers would have seen your work best to go with them

MBAGuide · Answer

Mahm1977 IMO it is best to show diverse but positive perspectives in LORs as much as possible. Best to pick two people who can speak to a variety of skills and capabilities that you demonstrated. You may find these tips useful. Secret Sauce for Outstanding Letters of Recommendation 1. In some cases, receiving a recommendation letter from a high-level executive, such as a CEO or founder, can be a game-changer. These luminaries carry significant weight and can provide a level of endorsement that few other applicants can achieve. However, it's understandable that working closely with such individuals is rare, especially in companies with defined hierarchies, and their direct involvement in crafting the letter may also be minimal. Often, dedicated personnel write the letter in the executive's voice, with final approval from the executives themselves. In such situations having much discussion regarding applicant's contributions and capabilities can be a challenge. But if you work in a flat organization or a startup, getting a recommendation letter from the founder, chairman, or CEO can hold more value than one from a senior colleague or manager. These top-level executives are usually well versed with providing strong recommendations and have a unique perspective on how to position your candidacy as a top MBA candidate. Without their endorsement, admissions teams may lack crucial context when reviewing your application essays. 2. Choosing a recommender from within your immediate work environment requires careful consideration. Before approaching a potential recommender, you must assess their role in your professional life. Are they simply a professional connection or someone who genuinely wishes you well? While there may be overlaps among the roles of mentor, well-wisher, and manager, it is however rare for an MBA applicant to have a manager who fulfills all three roles and maintains an excellent professional relationship. While a manager may have only worked on one project with you, which defined the dynamics between you, it may not have been an ideal situation. Alternatively, the manager might show enthusiasm in witnessing your growth but may change their attitude when your plans for an MBA and leaving the company are revealed. In some cases, the mentor may be a Business School alumnus but may not have worked directly with you due to their own commitments. MBA applicants often face a dilemma when deciding between a manager who supervised their work on a single project and a manager who evaluated their performance in multiple projects. In such situations, it is advisable to choose the latter option. The more time a manager spends working closely with you, the more qualified they are to evaluate your varying temperament, response to failure, and the unique qualities that make you stand out. This choice ensures that the recommender can truly understand the uniqueness of your candidacy. 3. When approaching potential recommenders, navigate the process thoughtfully. Don't hesitate to ask more than two individuals, and make sure they are open to receiving suggestions and feedback. While some may be resistant to editing their letters, others may welcome the opportunity to collaborate and refine the content. Building a rapport with your recommenders and conveying the importance of the recommendation letter can make a significant difference in the quality of their endorsement. Sometimes, you may encounter hurdles when securing a recommendation letter. For instance, a supervisor who outwardly supports your MBA aspirations may have hidden agendas or personal biases. In such cases, it is crucial to address the situation diplomatically, seeking the guidance of consultants or initiating direct collaboration between the recommender and a consultant. Open communication and a shared understanding of your goals can help overcome obstacles and ensure a strong recommendation letter. 3. To create the right atmosphere for sharing your MBA plans, demonstrate your commitment. Start the recommendation letter process well in advance, allowing ample time for discussions, revisions, and personal meetings. By investing extra effort and showing the seriousness of your intentions, you can build trust and encourage your recommenders to provide a genuine and compelling recommendations. Even if it's a recommender who's not keen on writing the letter or who wants to see you succeed, meet them in person. Emails and phone calls are alright if you have relocated, or the manager is traveling. Managing the recommendation letter process early would give you plenty of time to schedule a meeting. You can't convey the seriousness of your plan and how much an MBA matters to you with just words. Create a compelling narrative to win your recommender's confidence. Share how important the recommendation letter is for your future. When someone puts you in charge of their future, you will rise to the occasion. Your recommenders will mostly respond in similar manner. Best wishes Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, former INSEAD admissions interviewer) MBAGuideConsulting LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com

Who to ask for recommendation letters?

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