How to Write a Recommendation Letter
Need to write or request a recommendation letter? Here are examples of different types of letter of recommendations, including letters for employment, academic letters of recommendation, and character / personal reference letters, with writing tips and advice.
- How to write a letter of recommendation
If you’re asked to provide a reference for a specific job, the most effective letter of recommendation will be one that is written with the requirements of that particular job in mind. When you’re asked to write a general recommendation letter, you can still focus on the types or category of jobs for which the person is applying.
First thing you have to do is to collect information. Ask the person for whom you are writing to supply you with a copy of the job posting and their resume (what is a resume?) or curriculum vitae (how to write a CV?) before you begin composing your letter. It can also be helpful to review their cover letter to see how they pitch their qualifications for the job.
When you are writing a more general recommendation, you should still ask the subject of your letter to outline their targets for employment. Ask them for an example or two of jobs they are applying for. Also ask them to share their most marketable assets for that type of work, especially ones you may have observed in your relationship with the person you are recommending.