What are the points to be kept in mind when developing a message asking for a recommendation?

Before you volunteer someone's name as a reference,ask permission to do so.Some people don't want you to use their names,perhaps because they don't know enough about you to feel comfortable writing a letter or because they or their employers have a policy of not providing recommendations.Requests for recommendations and references are routine,so you can organize your inquiry using the direct approach.Open your message by clearly stating why the recommendation is required and that you would like your reader to write the letter.If you haven't had contact with the person for some time,use the opening to trigger the reader's memory of the relationship you had,the dates of association,and any special events that might bring a clear and favorable picture of you to mind.Use the body of the request to list all the information the recipient would need in order to write the recommendation,including the full name and address of the person to whom the letter should be sent.Consider including an updated résumé if you've had significant career advancement since your last contact.Close your message with an expression of appreciation.When asking for an immediate recommendation,you should also mention the deadline.Always be sure to enclose a stamped,pre-addressed envelope as a convenience to the other party.