I'm all for asking for reference letters when you're about to finish your contract. Getting a reference letter now rather than waiting until later has it's benefits. First, your boss will be more likely to remember details about your position. Second, your boss is still there. If she/he moves on, you could easily lose contact. Third, you're still working there and can remind your boss. Let's face it, our employers are busy and might forget.
However, if you've left a job and didn't get a recommendation letter, don't worry, it's not to late. You can still request one. You might have to remind your boss about details, such as when you worked there or what your responsibilities were.
Whether you're still working at the institute that you're requesting a reference letter or you have moved on, there are essential pieces of information that every reference letter should include. It might help you to give your boss the template below. Sometimes you may be asked to help your boss write your reference letter, this is especially common if English isn't their first language. Just follow the template below.
Asking for a reference letter
Dear (Name)
My name is (name) and I worked at your institute (dates) as a (job title). I am currently applying for a position in/at (country or institute). In order to apply for this position I must submit reference letters and I would like to know if you would be able to write a reference letter for me. If possible, could you please include two copies- one for my application and one for my personal records. I understand that you are very busy and have included a template to help you. I greatly appreciate your help with my application. Thank you so much for your time to get this done quickly.
Sincerely,
(Your name)
(Your postal address so they can snail mail you the letter)
What a reference letter should contain
This is the basic information that a good reference letter should contain. You might want to give this information to your boss to make sure that they include everything.
Sharon de Hinojosa (naturegirl321) has lived and worked in the US, Scotland, Spain, the Czech Republic, China, Korea, and Peru. As well as teaching short-term in Venezuela and Taiwan.
She has created TEFL Tips which has information for teachers from writing a CV, to giving a demo lesson, learning the local language, teaching tips for the classroom and more.
Since living in Peru since August 2004, she wrote The Ultimate Peru List. With 80 pages it's a comprehensive guide for those living in or moving to Peru.