Writing a letter of recommendation can be a time-consuming task, requiring careful thought and attention to detail. However, sometimes we find ourselves in situations where we simply cannot accommodate such requests. It’s important to approach this conversation with kindness and in a manner that maintains the relationship. This guide will provide you with tips and examples on how to say no to a letter of recommendation, both formally and informally.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways:
1. Express Your Regrets:
When declining a letter of recommendation formally, start with expressing your regrets. Make it clear that while you would like to help, the circumstances prevent you from doing so. Remember, honesty is key to maintain a warm and respectful relationship.
Example: Dear [Name], I truly appreciate you thinking of me for writing a letter of recommendation for you. However, due to my current workload and prior commitments, I am unable to accommodate your request. I regret any inconvenience this may cause and wish you the best in finding an alternative recommender.
2. Provide an Explanation:
Follow up with a brief explanation for your inability to write the letter. Sharing a legitimate reason can help the requester understand your situation better.
Example: I am currently working on multiple projects with strict deadlines that require my full attention. As a result, I cannot allocate enough time to draft a comprehensive recommendation letter that you truly deserve.
3. Offer Alternative Solutions:
Assisting the requester by suggesting alternative options can soften the blow of declining their request. Recommend people or resources that they can approach for help instead.
Example: You may consider approaching [Name] who is well acquainted with your work and can provide a strong recommendation. They have expressed their willingness to help in the past, so they might be a suitable alternative.
Informal Ways:
1. Be Honest but Considerate:
When dealing with friends or close acquaintances, it’s often appropriate to use a more informal tone while being equally sensitive to their feelings. Begin by expressing your appreciation for their trust in your abilities, and then clarify your inability to fulfill their request.
Example: Hey [Name], thanks for considering me for writing a letter of recommendation. I feel honored that you think highly of my opinion. Unfortunately, I have a lot on my plate right now, and I wouldn’t be able to give your recommendation the time and attention it deserves. I hope you understand and find someone who can provide you with a stellar letter of recommendation.
2. Share Personal Constraints:
In an informal setting, you can provide a personal context or share specific circumstances that prevent you from taking on this responsibility.
Example: I’ve recently taken up additional responsibilities at work, and it’s been quite overwhelming. Combining that with my upcoming travel plans, it would be fair to say that my schedule is quite packed at the moment.
3. Offer Alternatives Based on Personal Connections:
Informal conversations allow you to leverage personal connections and relationships. Suggest an alternative person based on your network who can potentially provide a strong letter of recommendation.
Example: I remember you mentioning how much Professor [Name] from [University/Institution] influenced your writing skills during our conversations. They might be an excellent choice to write your letter of recommendation given your shared interests.
Tips to Remember:
- Respond promptly and politely to ensure the requester has enough time to find an alternative.
- Use a friendly and understanding tone, regardless of whether your response is formal or informal.
- Be straightforward but compassionate about your unavailability.
- Offer help in other ways, for example, by reviewing their application essays or helping them in a different capacity.
- Keep the lines of communication open and express your willingness to support them in future endeavors.
Remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to decline a letter of recommendation request when you are genuinely unable to fulfill it. By responding with honesty, providing alternatives, and maintaining a warm and respectful tone, you can ensure that your relationship remains strong even when you cannot meet their expectations.
