As an employer and educator I receive requests from time-to-time asking me to write a reference letter. If I know you well enough and can speak positively and confidently on your behalf I am usually glad to write these letters. It is my intent to help seal the deal if you are well qualified and sincerely want the position you are seeking.
Whenever I write a letter of recommendation I always ask the candidate for the following:
1) Current CV or resume
2) Description for the job or position they are applying
3) Main points or accomplishments they would like me to address in the letter
Finally I am much more likely to write you a future reference letter if I receive a hand-written thank you note after the application process is complete. Did you get the job? Did you accept the position? Why or why not?
Your turn: Do reference letters still matter? Do employers look at LinkedIn recommendation letters?