Recommendation Letters for School Administrators: A Guide for Candidates & Their References

It's always a bit awkward to ask for—or be asked for—a recommendation letter.

Here's how to handle it like a pro, no matter which side of the table you're on.

Start Early

Whether you're asking for a recommendation letter, or writing one for someone who's asked, the sooner you start, the better.

Candidates often put off asking, because they're hesitant to introduce the possibility of departing—especially when they aren't even applying for jobs yet.

It can feel disloyal, but it's not—moving on to new opportunities is an essential part of the profession. Here's why .

It's best to get the awkwardness out of the way quickly. Ask now, because waiting won't make it any easier, and will only make it harder to get a good recommendation letter.

If you can, ask in person, not over email, and ask for feedback on how you can grow.