I just went through the MBA application cycle and I’m looking for thank you gifts ideas/suggestions for the folks who wrote my recommendation letters. I’ll of course include a handwritten thank you card, but I also wanted to get a small gift as a nice gesture.
Current boss is in consulting and I’ve been working with him for about 2 years, so I think he’ll enjoy a box of cigars — he’s a smoker. I would otherwise get him a bottle of whiskey, but he travels for work with a carry-on so he wouldn’t be able to take that on the plane.
I’m less sure what to get for my previous boss, whom I worked for for a shorter period of time (about once a week for 6 months). I have a more professional relationship with her and don’t know her likes/dislikes as well as that of my current boss. She’s an investment banker, married, no kids, early 40s and lives local to where I am, if that helps at all. Right now I’m thinking something generic like a bottle of wine and Starbucks or restaurant gift card, but I’m open to any suggestions.
I think one of the generic gifts you mentioned would be just fine for your previous boss. Honestly I think the handwritten thank you card will be the gesture that is most appreciated.
Handwritten thank you is sufficient and is more than most people do. They also might appreciate an eventual follow-up note in which you let them know where you will be attending, and reiterating how their LOR made that possible for you.
I have had to write recommendation letters for students, and frankly, I would consider gifts inappropriate. A thank you note is fine. Something as personal as a spa session totally inappropriate. If you feel compelled to do something, send a modest floral arrangement. Agree with snarlatron that people like to hear how you made out.
I have written several B school recommendations over the years. My favorite TY gift was a private tour of a small museum where the applicant volunteered as a docent. It also served as a lovely farewell meet-up. A membership at a local museum or art cinema is often nice.
I’ve also gotten gift certificates for a meal, coffee, chocolate, books, and once, a scarf. All very thoughtful and greatly appreciated. (All were things that anyone who had spent time around me knew I would like.)
Make sure you keep your recommender informed not only about where you are accepted, but about how things play out for you afterwards. (Linked in is good for this!)
I agree that something like a spa certificate is too much and could be seen as very inappropriate. Remember, you may be asking these people for more letters in the future. A handwritten note and a small food gift (or the cigars, if you are very close to someone) are sufficient. Definitely the follow-up note is essential.
Here is my suggestion…for your current boss…just a nice thank you note…for now. The reality is…this person could remain your boss, and giving a present might not be appropriate.
I have written tons of LOR, and had many written for me as well. I have never done more than a thank you note. Really…that’s enough.