Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: Before you start
• Method 2 of 2: Composing a letter
• Tips
• Warnings
• Sources and links

If you've never written a letter of recommendation before, the process can seem a little daunting. Fortunately, all letters of recommendation contain common elements that you can easily master. Read the article and master the basics.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Before you start

1. 1 The purpose of the recommendation. Determine the type of recommendation - is it for an educational institution, work, volunteer position, characteristics, or personal? The letter should be guided by these goals.
   • For example, if a letter is for applying for a job, then it should characterize the employee and focus on his business qualities.
2. 2 Check out the position. If possible, get a copy of the job description and talk to the person you will be recommending. If you know the recipient of the letter, you can talk to him too.
   • The more you know about the position, the more accurately you will be able to craft the letter and meet the needs of both parties.
3. 3 Ask the person you recommend. Discuss with him his goals and the position for which he claims. Gather a resume, notes you may have about this person, and any other information that will help you when composing your letter. The best recommendations are thorough and specific, so this information will help you a lot.
   • By writing a letter of recommendation, you jeopardize your reputation. If you do not know the person well or you cannot recommend him, then refuse his request.

Method 2 of 2: Composing a letter

1. 1 Use a standard letter format. The reference letter is part of the business correspondence and follows the same general rules and guidelines.
   • In the upper right corner, write your address and date in words.
   • Below on the left, enter the name and address of the recipient (if known).
   • Start your letter with a formal business message. For example:
   • Dear Mr. Smirnov
   • Dear Sirs (if you do not know the name of the recipient)
2. 2 Write a letter of recommendation. First of all, write a summary of your recommendation, how you met and how well you know the person. Also include your own qualifications. If the recipient of the letter knows that you are the head of the department and not a friend of the candidate, the recommendation will carry more weight.
   • For example, “I am happy to recommend Mikhail for the position of Director of Development at ABV. As Vice President of the Development Department, Mikhail was in my subordination from 2009 to 2012. We worked together on several projects, and during this time I got to know him good enough."
3. 3 Describe the qualifications of the candidate specifically, with examples.
   • For example, do not write: "Mikhail does a great job and makes life easier for everyone." Better write this: "Mikhail improved the architecture of the database and combined it with the new system. His personal approach to the work performed and innovative solutions have significantly improved the productivity of our department. His attitude to the execution of tasks was always professional, and he rightfully earned the respect of the team and our clients. ".
4. 4 Compare. Comparisons enable the recipient to understand why you are recommending a person.
   • For example, "Mikhail achieved the best results on the technical project that I have seen in 8 years of work at ABC."
5. 5 Do not exaggerate. Don't put a candidate on a pedestal. Not only does this not look believable, but impossible things will be expected from the candidate. If a candidate has an Achilles' heel, don't exaggerate, but don't hide it either.
   • For example, if it was difficult for Mikhail to comment on the code, do not write: "Mikhail's greatest weakness was that it was impossible to force him to write something." Instead, write, "Michael went to great lengths to comment on the codes, which made it easier for other employees and users." Only write like this if it's true!
6. 6 Don't make the recommendation vague. The writing should be crisp and clear, which will show the authenticity of your recommendation and make the letter much more effective.
   • For example, don't say, "Michael is well qualified for your company or position and will be a worthy part of the team." This wording can work against a candidate. Instead, say, "Mikhail has the skills and accomplishments that will help WCC to achieve its goals."
7. 7 Don't be too short. If the recipient of the letter sees a small note of one or two paragraphs, they will consider it a sign that either you do not know the candidate well, or you have nothing to say about him. Also, do not make the recommendation too extensive, try to fit into one page.
8. 8 The letter must be active. Begin each paragraph with an engaging description of the candidate's qualities or personality.
   • For example, don't say, "Over the past two years, I've been delighted to watch the development of Mikhail's talent." Say instead, "Michael's skills have grown rapidly over the past two years."
9. 9 End the letter in the affirmative. Confirm your recommendation and, if necessary, invite the recipient to contact you.
   • For example, say: "I think this is why Michael will be a great addition to your team. If you have any questions, you can contact me at the above contacts."
10. 10 Finish the letter and subscribe.
    • Sincerely,
    • Best wishes,
11. 11 Get feedback. If you are unsure of your letter of recommendation writing skills or your letter is of particular importance to the candidate, ask a colleague who knows the candidate to comment on your letter. A letter of recommendation is part of your reputation, so you need to make sure it's in the best possible way.

Tips

• If you ask a candidate to write himself a recommendation letter, keep in mind that not everyone is able to do this. Read the letter carefully before signing it.
• Type the letter on your computer.It looks more formal and the recipient doesn't have to decipher your handwriting.
• When you first mention a candidate in an email, include their full name. Then you can use at your discretion either only the first name or the last name. The main thing is to be consistent.
• The tone of the letter should be businesslike and specific.
• Use compliments and positive reviews, but be honest.
• If you have to write your own recommendation, then be honest and specific. Write as if you are writing a letter of recommendation for someone else with your qualities. Ask a friend or colleague for help and advice.

Warnings

• A recommendation letter should focus on the person's key knowledge, skills, and abilities. Don't waste your time creating a particularly positive letter, as this is usually overlooked.
• Consider whether to give a copy of the letter to the candidate, especially if it contains reprimands. A recommendation has more weight if the recipient knows it is candid and not written to praise the candidate.

Sources and links

• University of Washington
• Good letter writing