How To Write a Recommendation Letter (With Examples)

Writing a recommendation letter might sound easy though it’s not. It can be a challenging task to write a recommendation letter. Logically, when you’re writing a letter of recommendation, it should always be about showcasing the positives of a candidate, so all you have to do is write down all your positive things regarding the person.

In addition, there should be some standard things that you can mention about the candidate in the endorsement of the person. A letter of recommendation template can make your task easy by ensuring you cover all the important points in your letter. This also makes the LOR more effective and informative as much as possible.

Without any further let’s dive into the article to find out how you can write a letter of recommendation.

What is a Letter of Recommendation?

The full form of LOR is “Letter of Recommendation” also known as Recommendation letter. The higher authorities usually have the right to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. In support of your application for a position, a course of study, or other chances, the letter needs to attest to your abilities, qualities, and character. LORs are important for highlighting a person’s skills and are frequently employed to judge a person’s appropriateness for a job or program. In decision-making processes, these letters hold a lot of value. Following the tips mentioned in the letter of recommendation template can make your task easy and effective.

How to Write a Recommendation Letter?

There are various points that should be kept in mind while you write a letter of recommendation as it is a task that comes with great responsibility. You should strongly highlight the strengths and qualities of the person you are going to recommend.

Below are some tips that you should keep in mind when you write a letter of recommendation.

Here’s what the letter of recommendation template includes:

1. Start with a formal salutation.
2. Introduce yourself and your relationship with the candidate.
3. State the purpose of the letter.
4. Highlight the candidate’s strengths and qualities.
5. Provide specific examples of their skills and achievements.
6. Explain why the candidate is suitable for the opportunity.
7. Mention any challenges the candidate has overcome.
8. Compare the candidate to others if relevant.
9. Include your contact information.
10. Offer to provide further information or answer questions.
11. End with a formal closing and signature.

Steps To Write a Letter of Recommendation

Even though there are several letter of recommendation template available, make sure to keep the following things in mind while writing a letter of recommendation.

Step 1- Writing the heading and greeting

• The heading and greeting should include a proper introduction. Below is the information that you should mention in the heading.
• The contact information
• Your name
• Your title
• Name of the company
• Address
• City, Zip Code
• Date

Step 2- Writing a Salutation

• For the personal LOR, you can add a salutation like (Dear Mr. John, etc)
• For the professional or general LOR always use “ To Whom It May Concern”
• In case you are not adding a salutation simply start your letter with the first paragraph.

Step 3- Drafting the body of the letter

The body of the LOR is a section where you explain why you as a company are a good reference and why the individual is qualified. You can also describe the relevant skills of the individual in this section.

• The first paragraph of the body– The first paragraph of the recommendation letter usually portrays your connection with the person you are recommending which can include how you know the person and why you find that person qualified.

For example– I met Ankit when he was fresher in my Introductory Business course at IIT. Throughout his studies. It was a great opportunity to work with him on several research projects where he acted as my assistant.

• The second paragraph of the body– This section of the body covers the information about the individual you are writing about which includes why they are qualified for this position, what can they contribute and why are you recommending them.

For example– Jhon graduated with honors in Science and he was always focused on how his future would progress. He is a very bright and qualified individual and a pleasure to work with.

Step 4 – Add Summary, Conclusion, and Closing

This is the section where you finalize your recommendation with specific wording that can highlight the person.

Step 5 – Conclusion

The conclusion of your recommendation letter covers an offer to provide more information. Include a phone number within the paragraph, and provide the phone number again and your email address in the return address section of your letter or under your signature.

• Sincerely,
• Signature,
• Recommender name
• Title
• Email address
• Phone Number

Every letter of recommendation template has the above things mentioned, but make sure to customize them as per your needs and requirements.

Tips For Writing An Effective Recommendation Letter

Writing an LOR that is effective is very important because it is very influential and plays a very important role in shaping the career of a candidate. A letter of recommendation template will be a perfect reference letter sample. Below are some tips that can help you draft an effective LOR,

1. Understanding the purpose

Understanding the main purpose of the LOR should be a priority as you should know whether it is a letter of recommendation for employee or a sample recommendation letter for student.

2. Using proper format

A LOR consists of a proper letter of recommendation format with a formal tone, the format includes your contact information, the date, your name and address, salutation, body, and closing.

3. Highlighting the key qualities

Always try to focus on the skills of the candidate’s goals. Highlight their academic performance, work ethics, teamwork, etc.

4. Be clear and concise

Being clear and concise on your part really matters as it makes easy for the other person as well and they can understand it properly.

5. Use professional language

Use professional language and try to avoid casual expression. The tone of the language that you use should be respectful and positive.

Consider the above points while finalizing your reference letter sample

Here are some letter of recommendation template

Below are some letter of recommendation format that’ll be helpful whether you are looking for a sample recommendation letter for student or letter of recommendation for employee.

Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you in good health and high spirits. I’m reaching out to you with an important request as I embark on an exciting journey – applying to the [Name of Program] at our esteemed company, [Name of Company]. One of the mandatory components of the application process is the submission of letters of recommendation.

Given the invaluable professional relationship we’ve cultivated during my tenure at [Name of Company], I am writing to kindly request your support in crafting a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I believe your unique perspective, as my manager, will lend significant weight to my application. To provide you with context regarding my choice of this specific program, it aligns perfectly with my career aspirations because [Explain your reasons briefly].

Your endorsement, highlighting my strengths, work ethic, and character, would greatly bolster my chances of securing admission to the [Name of Program]. The ideal recommendation letter would encompass some of my notable and pertinent work achievements, along with an insightful commentary on why you believe I am well-suited for success in this program. For formal documentation, I kindly request your contact information, and a hand-written signature on your letterhead.

You may send the letter via [Scan/Email/Fax] to the following address: [Email Address/Fax].

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or require additional information.

I am deeply grateful for your consideration and time in assisting me with this work. I eagerly anticipate your response.

Thank you, and best regards,

[Your Name]

Letter of Recommendation Sample

Here are letter of recommendation example which will also allow you to understand the format of a letter of recommendation.

(The candidate’s name)

(His title position)

(Company or organization name)

(Address)

(City, State, ZIP Code)

(Candidate’s Email Address)

(Candidate’s Phone Number)

(Date)

(Recipient Name)

(Recipient Title)

(Recipient Organization/ institute)

(Recipient address)

(City, State, ZIP Code)

Respected ( Recipient’s name)

I am writing to recommend (Name of the candidate) for (mention the purpose of recommendation). I have had the privilege of working closely with (Name of the candidate) for the past ( number of years) in my guidance as (the position) at (name of company/institution)

At the time of our working together, we had the opportunity to witness (candidate’s name)’s great skills and qualities. He/She has constantly showcased a strong work ethic, outstanding creativity, and great dedication to their work which is truly commendable.

One of the qualities that stands out in him/her (mention the quality) and he/she has showcased their skills like( mention the skills) through various projects and achievements. (Name of the candidate) is also excellent in (adding more relevant skills) and is able to convey ideas clearly.

If you require any further information or have questions about the recommendation, do not hesitate to contact me (at the Email address ) or (phone number). I will be providing additional insights or context.

Thank you for considering my recommendation, I am confident that (candidate name ) will be an asset to your organization.

Sincerely,

(Your Name)

(Job Title)

(Name of organization)

These were some letter of recommendation sample that you can consider while drafting your final piece.

Conclusion

Drafting a Letter of recommendation is a task that comes with great responsibility and professionalism. One should always keep in mind that every small detail should be given attention. There are various letter of recommendation template or letter of recommendation sample available that make the process hassle-free.

While you write a LOR you should always follow the steps mentioned above in the article and also keep in mind some important tips like using proper format, understanding the purpose, highlighting the key qualities, being clear and concise, and always using professional language. Using the letter of recommendation template can make your task easy and professionally toned.