Letter of recommendation (Sample), A letter of recommendation is a document written by someone who can attest to an applicant’s academic or work performance. This letter is usually sent to an admissions officer or hiring manager who is evaluating the applicant for admission, employment, or a scholarship.
Letters of recommendation are valuable in providing a comprehensive view of an applicant’s personal characteristics, such as honesty, intellectual curiosity, or potential for leadership. As a teacher, counselor, manager, or coworker, writing a persuasive letter of recommendation can give the applicant an advantage over other candidates.
How to format a letter of recommendation
Different organizations have different recommendation letter requirements. Be sure to ask the requester about any specific guidelines. In general, a letter or recommendation can be broken down into the following sections:
1. Date
2. Recipient Name
3. Recipient Title
4. Recipient Address
5. Greeting: Address the recipient by name if possible (Dear Ms/Mr).
6. Personal introduction: Begin the body of your letter by introducing who you are and your relationship to the applicant.
7. Recommendation: What makes the candidate a good fit? Offer specific examples of skills or qualifications that match the role.
8. Anecdote or example: Include a personal anecdote about what it’s like to work with the candidate. Include any workplace or people skills you’ve observed them to possess.
9. Closing: Give an overview of why you’d recommend this person.
10. Contact information: Provide your email address and phone number so the recipient can follow up.
11. Signature
Structure of a Perfect Letter of Recommendation
Give this to your recommender to make the job easier for them.
Introduction
Begin with a formal salutation, addressing the recipient of the letter (e.g., “To Whom It May Concern” or use the recipient’s name if known). Introduce yourself as the recommender and explain your capacity or relationship with the person you’re recommending.
Opening Paragraph
In the first paragraph, state the purpose of the letter and your enthusiastic recommendation of the individual.
Mention the context in which you know them (e.g., academic, professional, personal) and the duration of your relationship.
Overview of Skills and Qualities:
Highlight the key skills, qualities, and attributes that make the individual an exceptional candidate.
Provide specific examples and anecdotes that demonstrate their capabilities and character.
Specific Achievements and Contributions:
Detail any noteworthy achievements or contributions the individual has made under your observation.
This could include academic accomplishments, leadership roles, research work, community service, or any other relevant endeavors.
Personal Characteristics
Discuss the individual’s personal characteristics and qualities that have impressed you.
Mention their work ethic, communication skills, adaptability, integrity, and any other traits that set them apart.
Comparison (if applicable)
If possible, provide a comparative context by discussing how the individual stands out in comparison to their peers or colleagues. Emphasize what makes them unique and why they are particularly deserving of the opportunity.
Commitment and Passion
Share insights into the individual’s passion, dedication, and enthusiasm for their chosen field or endeavor.
Describe their willingness to go the extra mile and their ability to inspire others.
Closing Paragraph
Summarize your recommendation by reiterating your strong endorsement of the individual.
Express your confidence in their potential and ability to excel in their future pursuits.
Contact Information
Provide your contact information (email, phone number) in case the recipient has further questions. End the letter with a formal closing (e.g., “Sincerely,” “Best regards”) followed by your signature and printed name.
Letterhead (if applicable)
If the recommendation is coming from an organization or institution, include an official letterhead for added credibility.
