Recommendation letters are written documents that express a writer’s positive view of an individual’s qualifications, character, and achievements. Recommendation letters are used in various fields, including academic institutions, employment, and professional organizations. These letters serve as testimonials that provide insight into the applicant’s past performance and potential for future success.
Types of recommendation letters:
- Academic recommendation letter:
These letters are used to recommend a student for admission to a university or a graduate program. Academic recommendation letters are usually written by teachers or professors who have taught students or worked closely with them. The letter should highlight the student’s academic abilities, work ethic, and potential for future success.
- Employment recommendation letter:
These letters are used by employers to recommend an employee for a job or a promotion. Employment recommendation letters are usually written by supervisors or colleagues who have worked with the employee. The letter should highlight the employee’s job performance, skills, and work ethic.
- Character recommendation letter:
These letters are used to recommend an individual for personal or professional reasons. Character recommendation letters are usually written by someone who has known the individual for a long time, such as a friend or a family member. The letter should highlight the individual’s personal qualities, character traits, and integrity.
Uses of recommendation letters:
- Admission to academic institutions:
Recommendation letters are used by universities and graduate schools to evaluate an applicant’s potential for success in a program. A well-written recommendation letter can increase the chances of admission.
- Employment:
Recommendation letters are used by employers to evaluate an applicant’s skills, experience, and work ethic. A positive recommendation can increase the chances of getting hired or promoted.
- Professional organizations:
Recommendation letters are used by professional organizations to evaluate an applicant’s suitability for membership. A strong recommendation can increase the chances of being accepted into the organization.
Format of recommendation letters:
- Introduction:
The first paragraph should introduce the writer and explain their relationship with the applicant.
- Body:
The body of the letter should provide specific examples of the applicant’s achievements, skills, and qualities. The writer should use specific examples and anecdotes to support their claims.
- Conclusion:
The concluding paragraph should summarize the writer’s opinion of the applicant and provide a strong recommendation. The writer should offer to provide additional information if necessary.
Sample recommendation letter format:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[City, State Zip Code]
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for [Purpose of the Recommendation]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Time Frame] in the capacity of [Relationship to Applicant].
In the time that I have known [Applicant Name], I have been consistently impressed by [his/her] [Skills/Qualities/Achievements]. [Provide specific examples of the applicant’s strengths and accomplishments].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would excel in [Purpose of the Recommendation]. [Provide additional reasons for the recommendation].
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for [Purpose of the Recommendation], and I am confident that [he/she] would make a valuable contribution. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]