Letters of Recommendation (LORs) are a critical aspect of your ISB PGP application. They offer a unique, third-party perspective on your professional abilities, leadership potential, and character. Since ISB emphasises peer and supervisor feedback to gauge your readiness for the MBA program, selecting the right recommender and guiding them effectively can significantly impact your application.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ISB LORs, including expert tips, how and when to choose a recommender, and sample recommendations for each question.
How and When to Choose a Recommender for ISB PGP
Choosing the right recommender is critical to the success of your ISB application. A well-chosen recommender can provide insights into your professional skills, leadership potential, and personal growth, all of which are essential for a strong Letter of Recommendation.
Here’s a guide on how and when to make this important decision:
When to Choose a Recommender
It’s never too early to start thinking about who will write your recommendation letters. Ideally, you should start this process at least two to three months before your application deadline. This will give you sufficient time to identify potential recommenders, reach out to them, and ensure they have ample time to write a thoughtful and detailed recommendation.
Early preparation is key to avoiding last-minute requests, which could lead to rushed or generic letters.
- Three Months Before Deadline: Begin identifying possible recommenders and approach them informally. Gauge their willingness and availability.
- Two Months Before Deadline: Finalize your recommender(s) and provide them with background information, including your resume, application goals, and key achievements.
- One Month Before Deadline: Follow up and check if your recommender needs any additional information or clarification to complete their letter.
How to Choose a Recommender
When choosing a recommender for your ISB application, it’s crucial to select someone who knows your professional abilities well and can provide specific, detailed insights into your achievements and growth.
Ideally, this person should be your current or former supervisor, as they can speak to your work ethic, leadership skills, and contributions to the organization. If your current supervisor is not an option, consider a senior colleague, client, or project leader who has worked closely with you on key initiatives.
Avoid selecting someone based solely on their title, as a well-written, personalized recommendation from someone who has directly observed your performance will carry far more weight than a generic letter from a high-ranking executive.
Make sure your recommender understands your career goals and how an MBA fits into your overall plan, as this will help them write a more aligned and impactful letter.
Curious how applicants have navigated the ISB application journey? Read how Arnab cracked ISB with a 675 GMAT.
Expert Tips on Crafting Strong ISB Letter of Recommendation
Your Letters of Recommendation (LoRs) can have a significant impact on your ISB application by providing a third-party perspective on your professional skills, leadership potential, and personal growth.
Here are expert tips to ensure your LoRs make a powerful case for your candidacy:
1. Choose Recommenders Who Know You Well
The strength of a recommendation lies in how well your recommender can speak to your professional journey and personal attributes. Select individuals who have worked closely with you and can provide specific examples of your achievements, leadership qualities, and growth. Your current supervisor is often the best choice, but if that’s not feasible, a former supervisor or client who has a strong understanding of your work is a great option.
Tip: Avoid selecting recommenders based solely on their titles. A detailed, personal account from someone who knows you well is far more valuable than a generic letter from a senior executive with little knowledge of your work.
2. Provide Your Recommender with Context and Guidance
Once you’ve chosen your recommenders, make sure they have all the necessary information about your career goals, key achievements, and reasons for applying to ISB. While you shouldn’t write the recommendation for them, you can share your resume, discuss the ISB application requirements, and suggest examples of your work that they can highlight.
Tip: A well-informed recommender will be able to tailor their letter to emphasize the qualities ISB values, such as leadership potential, problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
3. Emphasize Specific, Measurable Achievements
Strong recommendations include specific, measurable examples that showcase your skills and impact. Encourage your recommender to highlight tangible achievements such as leading a successful project, generating significant business results, or mentoring team members. These examples lend credibility to their assessment of your strengths.
Tip: A recommendation letter that states you are “a great leader” is less impactful than one that says, “They led a cross-functional team of 10 people to achieve a 25% increase in efficiency within six months.”
Tip: A recommendation letter that states you are “a great leader” is less impactful than one that says, “They led a cross-functional team of 10 people to achieve a 25% increase in efficiency within six months.”
4. Highlight Your Leadership and Growth
ISB values candidates with leadership potential and the ability to grow from feedback. Your recommender should provide examples of how you’ve demonstrated leadership, either by managing teams, spearheading initiatives, or taking ownership of complex challenges. Additionally, the letter should mention how you’ve responded to constructive feedback and how that has contributed to your professional development.
Tip: Ask your recommender to mention instances where you took initiative, whether it was during a project or in helping others within the team.
5. Address Your Unique Qualities
Ask your recommender to highlight any qualities that set you apart from others. These can include your problem-solving skills, ability to work under pressure, creativity, or interpersonal skills. It’s also important for the recommender to compare you with peers in similar roles and demonstrate why you stand out.
Tip: Encourage your recommender to discuss both your technical and soft skills. A balanced assessment of your abilities will paint a fuller picture of your potential as an MBA candidate.
6. Ensure Consistency with Your Application
Your LoRs should complement the rest of your ISB application. Work with your recommender to ensure that the examples they provide align with the experiences and achievements you’ve highlighted in your essays and resume. Consistency across these elements creates a more cohesive narrative and reinforces your strengths.
Tip: Share your essays or application goals with your recommender, so they can write a letter that aligns with your overall story.
7. Give Your Recommender Ample Time
Writing a thoughtful and well-crafted recommendation takes time. Approach your recommenders at least two to three months before the application deadline, allowing them sufficient time to prepare the letter without feeling rushed. Follow up with gentle reminders, but be respectful of their time.
Tip: Offering to have a discussion with your recommender about your goals and achievements can help them write a more personalized and impactful letter.
8. Keep the Tone Professional Yet Personal
A great recommendation strikes the right balance between professional achievements and personal attributes. Encourage your recommender to write about your leadership qualities, teamwork skills, and commitment to excellence, but also ask them to share insights into your character, such as your integrity, empathy, and work ethic.
Tip: A recommendation that includes both professional and personal anecdotes helps the admissions committee see you as a well-rounded individual, not just a candidate with a good resume.
By following these expert tips, you’ll ensure that your Letters of Recommendation provide a powerful endorsement of your candidacy and help you stand out in ISB’s competitive admissions process.
Sample Letters of Recommendation for ISB Applicants
Below are sample responses for each of the four ISB recommendation questions (updated 2025).
ISB recommendation questions 2025 (Word Limit 500)
- Please provide a brief description of your interaction with the applicant.
- How does the applicant’s performance compare to that of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles?
- Describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant.
- Is there anything else we should know?
Each sample demonstrates how the recommender can provide a detailed, thoughtful, and impactful letter within the 500-word limit.
1. Please provide a brief description of your interaction with the applicant. (Word limit 500)
Sample Response:
I have had the privilege of working with [Applicant’s Name] for over four years at [Company Name], where I am the Senior Marketing Manager. During this time, [Applicant’s Name] reported directly to me as a Marketing Analyst and, more recently, as a Marketing Lead. Our working relationship has evolved from initial project collaboration to overseeing key strategic initiatives, where [Applicant’s Name] took on increasing responsibility.
One of our major projects involved launching a new product line for [Product Name]. In this role, [Applicant’s Name] was responsible for creating and executing the entire digital marketing strategy. This included market research, content planning, and overseeing the performance of our campaigns across multiple platforms. Their contributions were instrumental in the product’s success, which exceeded its initial target by 20% within the first quarter.
As their supervisor, I observed [Applicant’s Name] demonstrate excellent leadership, even when leading cross-functional teams. They were able to seamlessly coordinate between the sales, development, and creative teams, ensuring that deadlines were met while maintaining high-quality deliverables. What sets [Applicant’s Name] apart is their ability to balance creative problem-solving with analytical rigor—qualities that consistently drove strong business outcomes.
Additionally, [Applicant’s Name] has been an exceptional mentor to junior members of our team, often dedicating time outside regular hours to train them on campaign analysis and data interpretation. Their guidance has fostered a culture of collaboration and growth within the department. Our interactions have not only been professional but have also developed into a mutual respect that I value greatly.
Through these various roles, I have come to understand the depth of [Applicant’s Name]’s capabilities and commitment, making me confident in recommending them for the ISB PGP program.
2. How does the applicant’s performance compare to that of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles? (Word limit 500)
Sample Response:
Over the last decade, I have managed many talented marketing professionals, but [Applicant’s Name] stands out as one of the most capable individuals I’ve worked with. In comparison to their peers, [Applicant’s Name] consistently performs at a higher level, both in terms of results and leadership.
[Applicant’s Name] is particularly adept at taking ownership of complex projects and delivering results under pressure. For instance, during the launch of [Product Name], we faced unexpected market challenges that required quick decision-making. While other team members struggled to adjust to these changes, [Applicant’s Name] swiftly revised the campaign strategy by conducting an in-depth competitor analysis and identifying a gap in our market positioning. This adjustment led to a 30% increase in customer engagement within two months, outperforming other product launches led by equally qualified professionals.
Another area where [Applicant’s Name] surpasses their peers is in their ability to innovate. While many professionals tend to stick with proven methods, [Applicant’s Name] is always eager to experiment with new tools and strategies. For example, they were among the first in our team to implement predictive analytics for lead scoring, a method that improved our conversion rates by 15%. Their initiative to test and adopt new technologies put them ahead of others in the department.
Additionally, [Applicant’s Name]’s interpersonal skills and ability to lead diverse teams is unmatched. They are frequently sought after by other departments for their expertise and collaborative spirit. While other marketing leads are competent, [Applicant’s Name] goes beyond mere execution and actively fosters innovation and leadership within the team. Their performance consistently outshines other well-qualified professionals, making them an exceptional candidate for ISB.
3. Describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. (Word limit 500)
Sample Response:
One of the most important pieces of feedback I gave to [Applicant’s Name] was during a particularly challenging period for our team. In the early stages of their role as Marketing Lead, [Applicant’s Name] was highly detail-oriented, which sometimes led to slower decision-making. Their focus on perfecting every element of a campaign, while commendable, was impacting the overall pace of project delivery.
I advised [Applicant’s Name] to strike a better balance between precision and efficiency. In our field, deadlines are often tight, and waiting for perfection can hinder progress. I suggested that they prioritize key elements and make decisions based on the 80-20 rule—focusing on the aspects that would drive the most impact while accepting that not every detail could be flawless.
[Applicant’s Name] took this feedback very positively and immediately worked to adjust their approach. They developed a project management system that allowed them to set clearer priorities and delegate more effectively. Within a month, I saw significant improvement in their ability to make swift, informed decisions without sacrificing quality. This change became particularly evident during the execution of a large-scale campaign for [Project Name], where their enhanced time management and delegation led to a 15% increase in project efficiency.
Their ability to take constructive criticism and transform it into actionable improvement speaks volumes about their leadership potential and adaptability. This experience has not only shaped [Applicant’s Name] into a more efficient professional but has also allowed them to take on even more complex projects with confidence. I am certain that this quality will serve them well in ISB’s rigorous program.
4. Is there anything else we should know? (Word limit 500)
Sample Response:
Beyond their technical and leadership skills, [Applicant’s Name] possesses several qualities that I believe will make them an exceptional addition to ISB’s PGP program. Perhaps one of the most notable is their deep sense of responsibility toward their team and the broader community.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, [Applicant’s Name] initiated a company-wide project to transition our marketing efforts to digital-first strategies, ensuring that our business stayed competitive during uncertain times. This was not a directive from senior management but rather an initiative that [Applicant’s Name] took upon themselves. Their forward-thinking and proactive nature saved the company considerable costs and allowed us to remain agile in a rapidly changing environment.
Additionally, [Applicant’s Name] has a keen interest in mentoring others, both within the workplace and in their community. They have been involved in volunteering for a local NGO, providing digital marketing training to small business owners affected by the pandemic. This speaks to their desire to not only advance in their own career but also uplift others along the way.
In summary, [Applicant’s Name] brings a unique combination of professional expertise, leadership, and social responsibility. I have no doubt that they will thrive at ISB, not only as a student but also as a valuable contributor to the diverse and dynamic community that ISB fosters.
Below are additional shorter answer questions appearing in the Letter of Recommendation form.
Additional shorter answer questions
Below are additional shorter answer questions appearing in the Letter of Recommendation form.
1. Personal Qualities: How will graduate education in management help the applicant to realise his or her goals? (100 words)
Sample Response:
Graduate education in management will provide the applicant with the structured business knowledge, strategic frameworks, and leadership exposure necessary to complement his strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. He has already demonstrated the capacity to tackle complex client challenges, but a rigorous program like ISB will enable him to connect these skills to a broader organizational and global context. The opportunity to learn from diverse peers and faculty will sharpen his decision-making, while specialized courses and experiential learning will help him transition into senior leadership roles where he can drive large-scale impact.
2. Optional Comments: Is there anything about your rating on which you would like to comment? (500 words)
Sample Response:
My ratings reflect the applicant’s consistent ability to exceed expectations across multiple dimensions of professional performance. In my experience, he is among the top percentile of colleagues I have worked with in terms of intellectual curiosity, drive, and leadership potential. While he is still in the early stages of his career, his maturity in approaching challenges and his ability to build strong relationships with clients and team members set him apart from his peers.
For example, during a critical consulting engagement where timelines were tight and client expectations were high, he proactively identified potential risks and devised mitigation strategies, ensuring smooth delivery. His composure under pressure and structured communication helped the client gain confidence in our recommendations. This incident highlighted both his foresight and executional discipline.
At the same time, he demonstrates humility and a strong willingness to learn. He actively seeks feedback and implements it quickly, showing a growth mindset. His ability to balance independent thinking with collaboration makes him a valuable contributor to any team.
In giving him high ratings, I have considered not only his current competencies but also his future trajectory. With formal management education, I believe his impact will grow multifold, equipping him to take on larger responsibilities in strategy and leadership. My strong endorsement is a reflection of his proven capabilities and the promise I see in his career path.
3. Capstone Questions: To what extent does the applicant demonstrate originality and independence in thinking? Please provide recent instances where the candidate demonstrated such thinking. (200 words)
Sample Response:
The applicant consistently demonstrates originality and independent thinking, especially in problem-solving contexts where conventional approaches are insufficient. One notable instance was during a client engagement in the consumer goods sector, where the team was struggling with stagnant growth projections. Instead of relying solely on traditional market analysis, he suggested incorporating social media sentiment analysis and micro-influencer trends into the strategy. This was a novel angle that not only revealed untapped market opportunities but also impressed the client with its practicality and forward-looking nature.
Another example was in an internal project, where he proposed a framework to streamline knowledge sharing across consulting teams. He independently designed a model that categorized insights into reusable templates, significantly reducing duplication of effort. His approach was innovative, actionable, and ultimately adopted by the wider team.
What stands out is his ability to challenge assumptions without being disruptive. He respects established practices but is not hesitant to introduce fresh perspectives that add value. His independence is balanced with sound judgment, ensuring that his ideas are practical and strategically aligned. These qualities, in my opinion, will serve him exceptionally well in a rigorous management program like ISB and beyond.
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Final Thoughts
Letters of Recommendation are a strategic advantage and provide ISB with an invaluable third-party perspective on your professional journey and leadership potential.
By carefully selecting the right recommender and guiding them to provide detailed, specific examples, you can significantly enhance your application. Remember, strong LoRs don’t just praise – they give concrete evidence of your abilities and growth, making your case more compelling.
ISB heavily weighs these insights to assess your leadership, impact, and readiness for the rigorous PGP. This guide underscores that proactive management of your LoRs is essential for a competitive application.
Key Takeaways:
- Recommender Choice: Prioritize depth of interaction over titles (ideally, a direct supervisor). Start 3 months early.
- Effective Guidance: Provide context (resume, goals, achievements, ISB’s values). Never write the letter yourself – authenticity is key.
- Specificity & Impact: Demand concrete examples demonstrating leadership, problem-solving, growth, originality, and measurable results. Align with your application story.
- Use Samples Wisely: View samples as blueprints for detail, structure, and evidence needed, not templates to copy.
- Authenticity & Balance: Ensure LoRs offer a balanced view, blending professional achievements with character insights, while maintaining authenticity.
Tip: Invest time in this process. Strong, well-managed LoRs are a cornerstone of a successful ISB application.
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FAQs
How many Letters of Recommendation does ISB require for the PGP application?
ISB requires one Letter of Recommendation (LoR) as part of the PGP application. Unlike some global MBA programs that require multiple references, ISB keeps it focused on a single, strong recommender who knows you well.
Who is the best person to write my ISB LoR?
Ideally, your current or former supervisor is the best choice, as they can speak to your work ethic, leadership, and impact. If that’s not possible, consider a client, project manager, or senior colleague who has closely observed your work. Avoid choosing someone just for their senior title if they don’t know you well.
Can I ask a professor or academic mentor to write my recommendation?
Since ISB emphasizes professional achievements and leadership potential, academic recommendations carry less weight. You should only choose a professor if you have very limited work experience and they can provide strong insights into your skills, leadership, or teamwork.
What should I share with my recommender before they write the letter?
Provide your recommender with:
1) Your resume or CV
2) A brief summary of your career goals and why you’re applying to ISB
3) Key projects, achievements, and leadership examples they may highlight
4) ISB’s LoR questions and word limits
This helps them write a structured and personalized recommendation.
How early should I approach my recommender?
Start at least 2–3 months before the deadline. This gives them enough time to think, draft, and polish their response. Rushed recommendations often turn out generic and less impactful.
What qualities does ISB look for in a recommendation?
ISB values LoRs that showcase:
> Leadership potential
> Problem-solving skills
> Teamwork and collaboration
>Ability to grow from feedback
> Originality and independence in thinking
Specific, measurable examples make a much stronger case than vague praise.
Should I draft the LoR myself for my recommender?
No. Admissions committees can usually spot self-written recommendations. Instead, you can guide your recommender by sharing your achievements, goals, and ISB’s expectations. Their independent perspective is what makes the LoR powerful.
How important is consistency between my LoR and the rest of my ISB application?
Very important. Your LoR should align with your essays, resume, and goals to present a cohesive story. Inconsistencies (for example, highlighting different strengths than you mention in your essays) can confuse the admissions committee.
What if my recommender misses the deadline?
The ISB system allows you to track the status of your recommender’s submission. If they haven’t submitted close to the deadline, politely remind them. If needed, keep a backup recommender ready well in advance.
Can I see my recommendation before it is submitted?
Officially, ISB expects recommendations to remain confidential. While some recommenders may share a draft with you, it’s best to respect the process and only provide input in terms of background material and guidance.