Writing a Sample Recommendation Letter for Employment

What is a Recommendation Letter?

A recommendation letter is a formal document that is used to provide a written reference or endorsement of someone else. It is typically written by a supervisor, employer, teacher, or other individual with direct knowledge of the person being recommended. The letter should provide honest and thoughtful comments about the individual's qualifications, skills, and experience that make them suitable for a particular job or other opportunity.

Why Write a Recommendation Letter?

Recommendation letters can be an important part of any job application. They provide a third-party endorsement of the individual's skills and qualifications. They can also provide an insider's perspective on the person's character and work ethic. A well-written recommendation letter can be the difference between an applicant being accepted or rejected for a job or other opportunity.

Who Should Write a Recommendation Letter?

When writing a recommendation letter, it is important to choose someone who can speak to the individual's qualifications and skills in a meaningful way. The person should have direct knowledge of the individual's work and be able to provide specific examples of their performance, skills, and other qualities. An employer, supervisor, teacher, mentor, or other trusted individual is typically the best choice.

What Should Be Included in a Recommendation Letter?

The letter should include specific details about the individual's qualifications, skills, and achievements. It should also provide a brief overview of the individual's job description, duties, and responsibilities. It should also provide examples of how the individual was able to exceed expectations in their role. The letter should also include a brief summary of the individual's character and work ethic.

Sample Recommendation Letter for Employment

To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing to recommend [Name] for the position of [Position]. I had the opportunity to work with [Name] for [time period] in the role of [previous role] at [Company], and I can confidently say that [Name] has the necessary experience and qualifications to be successful in the role.

During my time working with [Name], I was constantly impressed by [his/her] dedication and hard work. [Name] was able to quickly learn new tasks, take on additional responsibilities, and consistently exceed expectations. [Name] was also a team player, always willing to help out and contribute in any way possible. [Name] was able to work independently, as well as collaborate with colleagues to get tasks done efficiently and effectively.

I would highly recommend [Name] for the position of [Position] and believe [he/she] would be a valuable asset to your team. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Recommendation Letter

• Be honest and constructive in your letter.
• Focus on the individual's strengths and achievements.
• Provide specific examples of the individual's performance, skills, and other qualities.
• Be respectful and professional in your language.
• Maintain a positive tone throughout the letter.
• Proofread the letter for errors before sending it.

Conclusion

Writing a recommendation letter for an employee can be a daunting task. It is important to provide honest and thoughtful comments about the individual's qualifications, skills, and experience. It is also important to choose someone who can speak to the individual's strengths and achievements in a meaningful way. A well-written recommendation letter can be the difference between an applicant being accepted or rejected for a job or other opportunity.