Ask Stacy Blackman

So I do a lot of volunteer work for a great well known nationwide org. I am planning on sing my experience for one of my essays but it is against there policy to write letters. Do you have any suggestions?

Hi hudsn,

What sort of letter were you looking for from the organization?

Good luck!

Amy

I just really wanted a letter to demonstrate my commitment to show that I am well rounded and my commitment to causes outside of work and which also can show my leadership strengths with regards to dealing with this charity and its beneficiaries.
I could get a letter from another charity Ive worked with but the other charity who I have given the most time and effort to policy prohibits letters of rec.
What do you suggest? I was planning on using my experiences with the charity as an essay and a letter. Also i was hoping the letter would make up for some other areas where I may lack vs other candidates.
thanks

Hi hudsn,

It's fine not to have a letter of recommendation from a volunteer activity. Writing about it in an essay (as long as you have something to say that pertains to the essay question) is enough. The most important letter of recommendation is from your immediate supervisor, and having other professional letters for the rest will be great too. Most crucial is that the letter writers know you well and can offer specific examples in answer to the questions.

Good luck!

Amy

Thanks Amy. That sorta leads intopt2 of this question. My work experience currently is my own consulting firm so I cant get letters from customers, an my previous employers it may be hard to track down people who i previously worked for/with

Hi Hudsn,

That's a tough situation. If you have worked for yourself for a few years, you will want at least one letter that will discuss your current professional accomplishments.

I'm not sure what your particular business is, but if you can't ask clients, think about anyone that you partner with or work on a team with outside of your firm.

Good luck!

Amy