Have you ever had to ask for one of these on your own behalf? It’s a real drag for me because I hate to ask for someone to take time out of their busy day and write a letter for me that will do nothing for them whatsoever. I’m more into reciprocal favors, that way both sides benefit. I’ve probably had to ask a dozen or so people in my career to write me these letters and it’s always been uncomfortable. But today, I am starting to think maybe it was just me feeling uncomfortable.
An aide here at work asked me for one and even though I was quite busy, I enjoyed writing it for her. She’s a very hard working sub and aide and it made me happy to help her get into the workforce in a new job she is looking for. I suppose I am now the experienced one in the field being asked to do the writing and I can tell you, I don’t mind it at all!
I’ve written on this blog before about how asking for help can really further your career, and maybe now I am closer to accepting my own advice. There are some things I have learned that I must relearn and relearn again. For me, asking for something like a letter of recommendation is one of those really hard things to do: I know it’s my right and privilege to do, but I still hate doing it.
How do you feel about asking for letters of recommendation?
Hi. I'm Damien Riley, MA.
2 Comments
I keep hitting the wrong keys and deleting my comments. I have never had to ask for a letter, thank goodness, but I would be a bit hesitant. Leon did not want to ask for letters when we moved to WA in 2004, but it turned into "a feel good about himself moment" when he read the letters, some from people he never dreamed would write what they did. And yes, it does feel good to help someone along by writing a letter.
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They do take a while to write and they are sort of a pain when you are busy, but once you start writing them its remarkable how good it feels helping someone out in their quest through words.