Letter of recommendation can really decide one’s future. If carefully written, the letter can help someone to stand out from the crowds of talents. Otherwise, it is more like a killing letter rather than a killer letter. Here is a complete guide to help you writer a killer recommendation letter (plus useful letter of recommendation template!)
1. Apply the standard letter format to your letter of recommendation
A letter of recommendation follows the same general rules as any other professional letters.
Your address should be on the top right, followed by the date Below your address, on the left, have the recipient’s name and address Start with a formal business greeting. For example, ‘Dear Sir or Madam’
2. Start by express your passionate praise in brief
Let the potential employer of the person you are writing for know that you believed in this person right from the start. Try not to sound overzealous; you do not want them to think it is insincere.
3. Show how well you know the person you are writing for
Give some concrete contexts and examples for your recommendation. Inform the reader how you met them, how long you have worked together, your experience working with them and summarise your basic qualifications.
4. Highlight the candidate’s qualifications and past achievements
Give a clear and concise description of what the person has done, in your company. Cite their greatest achievements in their assigned departments as well as team projects. Use examples, give evidence or summarise a story of their work.
5. Illustrate their success and what makes them stand out through comparisons
Comparisons help the recipient to have some basis to fathom why you are recommending the candidate.
6. Cite where and how the candidate is improving without any exaggeration
Do not set expectations for the candidates that may be almost impossible to meet. Praise them without looking plausible.
7. Mention their good qualities outside of work
Give a basis of their participation whether it is in the company’s sports team or voluntary work.
8. Maintain action-oriented writing
Start every paragraph with an active affirmation of the candidate’s character traits or qualities. Replace “I have been pleased with his ongoing work” with “Mark’s skills have drastically improved in the last couple months. His selfless attitude is inspiring.”
9. Close the letter with an affirmative tone
In few words, restate your recommendation of the candidate and invite the recipient to contact you.
10. Don’t forget to sign your name!
The most important thing it to still sound professional, at the end of it all. If the recommendation letter you are writing is to be sent to a physical address, print and sign it by hand. Otherwise, type your name and sign off. Remember, make this person look good without putting them on the pedestal. You are putting your reputation on the line for this person, make it perfect. If you aren’t completely confident that you have covered everything in your letter, ask for feedback from an associate who may also know the candidate.
And more tips from professionals to help you write an all-rounded letter of recommendation.
It’s not ending here. We still have some wise words from some professionals in the field for you. Their expertise and experience are the perfect proof of their credibility. And it is highly advisable to listen to them before starting your letter or you may accidentally step on some traps which can be avoided. Keep the letter of recommendation brief and concise Don’t be vague, list examples to demonstrate the candidate’s qualities instead Mention the lasting impression Introduce yourself in the letter as well Tailor the letter to the job sought Get personal and trigger emotions Emphasise the great attitude of the person you are writing for With all these tips and suggestion, you are now capable to write a sound, convincing yet neat killer letter of recommendation. No worries for the possibility of killing now. And be prepared to be a favourite to write more in the coming future! Featured photo credit: Flaticon via flaticon.com
