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Reference Letters

We use feedback from recommenders to understand how others perceive you and to gain a firsthand perspective of the influence and impact you have had on others.

Two reference letters are required. Each letter should provide information and examples that help us understand your:

  • Leadership aptitude
  • Skills and competencies
  • Character traits that align with our values

What You Provide

In your application, you will register two individuals who will serve as your recommenders.

Choose individuals who know you well and who will put time, effort, and enthusiasm into your recommendation. They should be able to provide recent and specific anecdotes about your leadership expertise and speak to your managerial performance and executive potential.

Your recommenders should be:

  • A current, direct supervisor
  • A former supervisor, an indirect supervisor, or an individual who has direct involvement with you recently

Sponsored candidates must have:

  • CEO or designee of sponsoring organization
  • An individual who has directly evaluated managerial performance and potential

What Your Recommenders Provide

Your recommenders need to provide two things:

  1. Skills and qualities checklist: An evaluation of how you rate based on key competencies and characteristics as compared to others.
  2. Letter: A written recommendation for your admittance to the program. It should include their perspective on your character and past performance and give specific examples that support their evaluation and recommendation.

Tip: Process for Translating Letters

If English is not your recommender’s native language, ask them to write the letter in their native language, have it professionally translated, then submit it online. As an applicant, you cannot translate or submit the letter.

Tip: Options for a Direct Supervisor

If you have not disclosed your application to your supervisor, you are the CEO or cofounder of a company, or perhap s you work for a family business (meaning you cannot ask a current direct supervisor for a reference) — no problem. Choose the next best alternative such as an indirect or previous supervisor, a client, or board member. What’s most important is to ask someone who can speak comprehensively about what you have accomplished and how, as well as your growth potential.