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What is an LOR, and how should I ask my manager to write one for me?

08 Oct 2026 · Answered by Edayachandiran Velmurugan · 1 min read
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A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is a formal letter from someone who knows you academically or professionally, such as a manager or professor, highlighting your skills and achievements. Ask a manager who knows your work, request it at least 4 to 6 weeks before the deadline, and share your resume.

Edayachandiran Velmurugan
Edayachandiran Velmurugan Verified
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A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is a formal letter from someone who knows your work, such as a manager or professor. It highlights your skills, work ethic and achievements to support your application.

Steps to Request an LOR From Your Manager

StepWhat to do
Choose the writerPick a manager who knows your work well and can give specific examples
TimingAsk at least 4 to 6 weeks before your deadline
Share detailsGive your updated resume and information about the programme or job
Explain submissionTell them where and how the letter should be submitted
Follow upThank your manager after they provide the LOR

Why It Matters

  • A strong LOR can significantly strengthen your application.
  • Specific examples from your manager add more weight than general praise.

My Advice

Have a short conversation with your manager before sending a formal request, so they can say yes with confidence. Send a gentle reminder about a week before your internal deadline.

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