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If you are just out of school and entering the workforce, or simply changing jobs, chances are you will need a few recommendation letters to get you to the next step of your career. Don't be nervous about asking for these. Any business person who is high up in the corporate ladder knows that writing recommendation letters is a normal part of business. Don't feel bad or afraid to ask your boss, supervisor, or professor to write you one. There are, however, certain things you can do to make sure the recommendation letters you receive are the best they can be.

When choosing who to ask to write you a recommendation letter, choose someone who knows you well. Honestly ask that person if they'd be able to write you a positive one. It will save you both a lot of time if you ask upfront if they see you as being qualified enough to get a recommendation from them.

Make sure the letter writer knows exactly what you want the recommendation letter to highlight about you. It goes without saying that you should choose people who are satisfied with your work to write the letters. So if there is anything you want the letter to reference, such as a promotion or award you won, don't hesitate to ask them to include it.

You should have at least three recommendation letters. They don't all have to be former employees. Professors, teachers, advisors, and even clients make good candidates (This is why you never want to "Burn Bridges" with anyone). Provide the letter writer any updated information about you (such as a resume) especially if time has passed since you last worked with them.

Make sure you give the letter writer ample time to write it. Writing recommendation letters isn't on the top of a busy person's list. Asking for a completed letter by the end of the week (or worse, by the end of the day) is simply unprofessional. Give the person at least a month and let them know the exact deadline well in advance.

Don't ask to read recommendation letters. The writer will either mail it to the appropriate place (in which case you should provide a pre-addressed stamped envelope) or give it to you sealed. Try not to agonize over it. If you have a good relationship with the letter writer, you should have nothing to worry about.