LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION do's and don'ts to keep in mind when securing your recommendation letters:

DO's

• Do choose someone who knows you well enough to give you a recommendation.
• Do get recommendations from employers, professors, school administration, and anyone else who is familiar with your work ethic.
• Do ask for the recommendation in person, rather than sending an email.
• Do follow up with an email reminder and attach your Brag Sheet (in Naviance), Resume, Transcript or Activity list.
• Do tell the letter writer why you need the recommendation letter. 
• Do mention specific things that you would like to see included.
• Do send a thank you note afterwards. 
• Do keep copies of the letter. You may need to use it again in the future.

DON'TS

• Don't wait until the last minute. Secure letters of recommendation as soon as possible. (Two weeks at least)
• Don't ask someone to lie. 
• Don't ever forge signatures. 
• Don't choose someone only for their title. Pick someone who has a title AND knows you well.
• Don't choose someone who is a poor writer.
• Don't hesitate to get as many recommendation letters as possible. Choose the ones that show you in the best light. 
• Don't be surprised if the person you are asking for a recommendation letter asks you to write a letter that they will later modify and sign. This is a common practice. 
• Don't forget to say please and thank you. A letter of recommendation is a valuable resource. 
• Don't send one if it is not asked for.