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Letter of Recommendation Templates (19)

A letter of recommendation is a written and signed document that provides feedback on an individual's performance, leadership, and work ethic. It is also known as a letter of reference and is required for a variety of applications, such as college, grad school, internships, and more.
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Who to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

The writer of a recommendation letter should be able to speak directly to the individual’s ability to perform in the position for which the applicant is applying. Good examples of a recommender are:

  • Previous employers
  • Colleagues
  • Clients
  • Teachers and professors

It’s important to choose someone who will take the task seriously and put some time aside to write a proper letter. A hastily written letter can appear weak and superficial and could be ineffective or possibly counterproductive.

What to Include in a Recommendation Letter

  • Date
  • Writer’s contact information
  • Name of the individual receiving the letter of recommendation
  • Nature of relationship
  • Attributes that make the individual successful (potential, character, how they handle, consistency, dependability, etc.)

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation (4 steps)

1. Make It Easy

person filling out letter of recommendation template

Showing some effort before asking someone to write you a letter will go a long way. Before you ask and deliver your request, write a letter of recommendation for yourself with all the best qualities you believe you have. It will allow the individual to easily sign or amend the letter. In most cases, that individual will add more compliments and nice things to say about you in the letter.

2. Approach Respectfully

person emailing former boss to request letter of recommendation

Ensure the appropriate party is available to discuss the potential of writing a letter of recommendation. Typically, you do not want to bother someone while they are working or during their personal time. The best non-intrusive way to ask for a letter of recommendation is by email so that the person can find time within their own schedule to reply.

3. Be Patient

applicant and former boss speaking on phone about letter of recommendation

After communicating a preferred timeline or deadline for the recommendation letter, don’t be pushy or naggy. A simple respectful reminder goes a long way.

4. Receive and Review

applicant looking at phone after electronically receiving letter of recommendation

Once your appointed choice has sent you back the completed letter of recommendation, make certain that you proofread it before sending it off. Give thanks and appreciation to the person who went out of their way to do you this favor.

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation (3 parts)

Although some types of recommendation letters follow imprecise formatting, most letters adhere to a specific format and should be written in a professional tone. The longer the writer has known the candidate, the more detailed the content can be. However, the length of a recommendation letter is less important than the content of the letter.

1. Introduction

recommendation letter intro paragraph

The introduction paragraph should introduce the candidate and the writer, their relationship, and the length of said relationship. It should also include the position the candidate is applying for (if applicable) along with the reasoning behind the writer’s recommendation.

If the recipient of the letter is identified, the writer should address it specifically to that person, usually a hiring manager/supervisor, admissions officer, or board of admissions. If it is unknown who will be reading the letter, it’s usually best to begin with “To whom it may concern.”

Although it’s not always necessary, writing the date at the top will help maintain the validity of the recommendation letter. If a letter is dated 2014, and the individual in question is applying for a job in 2023, the legitimacy of the letter diminishes significantly.

Example #1  

To the Board of Admissions,

I am honored to recommend Sally Witfield for acceptance into your esteemed institution. I have been Sally’s science teacher for the past four years and based on her grades, attendance and class participation, I’d rate Sally’s academic performance in my class as superior.

Example #2

March 18, 2022

Dear Mr. Larsson,

My name is Dai Houliang and I’m writing to you in regards to Jason O’Sullivan’s application as hotel manager. He has worked as front desk supervisor at the Hotel Place D’Armes for the past 2 years and has always been able to keep the staff organized while maintaining the satisfaction of our guests.

2. Body Paragraph(s)

recommendation letter body paragraph

The body paragraph(s) of a recommendation letter is where the writer will describe the applicant’s skills, qualifications, and accomplishments in detail. The writer should provide sufficient examples to support these claims, thus assuring the reader that the letter comes from a credible source who can vouch for the applicant’s eligibility.

The number of paragraphs and the length of these paragraphs will vary from one type of letter to the next, but the main goal is to form a convincing argument on behalf of the candidate.

Generally, a recommendation letter will be used for a specific purpose and it’s up to the writer to learn what that purpose is. The recommender can then include strengths and skills that the applicant possesses that are relevant to that particular line of work, field of study, etc.

Example #1

While Kamel had no previous experience in retail, he was a natural. He has a terrific personality for the job. He makes clients feel at ease and provides exceptional customer service. Kamel works equally well on his own, or with others.

Kamel got along well with his co-workers and was never late or absent without cause. He was conscientious about completing tasks so as not to leave work for those coming on shift after him.

Example #2

Alessia started watching our kids five years ago when our first daughter, Aisling, was 4, and our second daughter, Elodie, was a newborn. Because of our demanding jobs, my wife and I are unable to be home for large periods of time during the week. It has been immensely comforting knowing that they are in the care of Alessia.

Alessia devotes her full attention to each child and can juggle tasks flawlessly. Our two daughters, being four years apart, have very different needs and attention spans, but Alessia is able to cater to each separately. She’ll be helping Aisling with her homework while making a meal for Elodie and keeping her entertained so she doesn’t distract her older sister.

My kids talk about her as if she’s a part of the family and insist on inviting her to their birthday parties every year. I understand that the demands of a daycare employee are different than those of a family nanny, but I am confident that Alessia is up for the challenge.

3. Conclusion

recommendation letter conclusion paragraph and sign off

The conclusion paragraph should wrap up any final thoughts the writer has concerning the applicant’s qualifications, reiterating their support for the applicant. Unless otherwise specified, the writer should provide a way to contact them should the reader require more information.

Some letters of recommendation require more precise formatting, but it’s customary to use a formal sign-off and include the writer’s signature, name, and contact information at the bottom.

Example #1

I’m confident that the excellent work ethic Alejandro has demonstrated during the course of his employment will carry over to his studies. Alejandro is charismatic, well-spoken, ambitious and, if he is accepted into your prestigious academy, there’s no doubt in my mind he will exceed your expectations. Please call me at the number below (during regular business hours) or by email (anytime) with any questions regarding Alejandro’s application.

Warm Regards,

[Signature]
Cynthia Cosgrove
(604) 898-2497

Example #2

Gabriela has decided to pursue other interests outside of Tacoma and we wish him well with his future endeavors. I would not hesitate to recommend him to any potential employer and would rehire him should the situation arise. If you wish to discuss this further, please contact me at (253) 664-8090.

Sincerely,

[Signature]
Elliot Schmidt
Director of Operations

Sample #1: Recommendation Letter for a Teacher

Sep. 19, 2022

Dear Mr. Long,

I am honored to recommend Mr. David Lawson for the position of music teacher at Beaverton High School. As principal of Douglas Elementary, I’ve seen David’s contributions to this school first-hand, and it will be difficult to find a replacement for such a dedicated teacher.

Our school has recently suffered from budget cuts and some of the programs will have to be reduced or completely eliminated from the curriculum. We have an extensive music program, to which David contributes greatly, but unfortunately, this is one of the areas that must be condensed. The head of the music program will be teaching all the classes now, which means Mr. Lawson is left to seek other employment. This is in no way a reflection of his skills as an instructor, it’s simply an unfortunate circumstance that has caused us to lose a most talented teacher.

David started teaching at Douglas Elementary back in 2008. The music classes we offer started off as quite general, but David dedicated time and energy to expanding the program to include more options for students with a higher interest in pursuing music as a career. He introduced new classes to the curriculum and spent countless hours working with smaller groups of students, even going as far as providing one-on-one lessons after school. David’s expertise in music, along with his organizational prowess, will for sure be an asset to whatever school is lucky enough to have him.

It’s no secret that David is one of the children’s favorite teachers. I step into his classroom from time to time as I make my rounds about the school and am delighted to see how enthralled the children are in Mr. Lawson’s classes. His style of teaching is very animated and captivating. The children always seem anxious to get through their other classes so they can play music with Mr. Lawson. He quickly develops a rapport with his students but also takes time to listen to the concerns or comments brought forth by their parents. I have had parents come to me on more than one occasion praising David for the positive impact he had on their child’s education.

David has unlimited patience and his devotion to music does not go unnoticed. His energy will be dearly missed at Douglas Elementary, but we’re confident his experience will be appreciated if he is accepted into your faculty. I would be happy to provide more detail concerning Mr. Lawson’s application should it be necessary.

Warm regards,

Lynda Ostrowicz
Principal
Douglas Elementary
(416) 209-8803

Sample #2: Recommendation Letter for a Paralegal

Jan. 17, 2021

To Whom It May Concern,

Sherine has worked for me every summer for the past six years, helping me with various cases and legal assistance within my law firm. I have degrees in both law and architecture and I can say with certainty that Sherine’s organizational skills and professional demeanor are on par with many of the paralegals and interns I have worked with.

I am not an easy person to please and my demands are often quite particular, but my mind is put at ease by Sherine’s dependability and meticulous work ethic. She is punctual and shows incredible initiative. I always provide Sherine with a list of tasks to be completed by the day’s end, but Sherine works so diligently that she often goes above and beyond what I ask of her. Even when the work is physically demanding, she demonstrates tremendous strength and stamina.

I wish I could hire Sherine every summer but I look forward to following her accomplishments as she continues her journey through life. I am confident Sherine will be successful in any endeavor she applies herself to, therefore, I am happy to give her my highest recommendation.

Regards,

Faye Cheslock
(687) 546-5532

Sample #3: Recommendation Letter for a Cook

Dec. 9, 2022

Dear Abigail Mansfield,

I’m writing in support of Mr. Darpreet Vaidya’s application for the cook position at Diamond Grille. During my eight years as a supervisor here at Joe’s Restaurant, I’ve had many cooks come and go, but Mr. Vaidya stands out as one of our most valuable employees to date.

I hired Mr. Vaidya in 2013, and although he had no previous experience, he quickly learned the methods and techniques. He’s efficient, organized, a great team player, and an amazing multitasker. He brings immense energy to the kitchen and keeps the atmosphere positive.

We have quite a revolving door of kitchen staff, but Darpreet has been very loyal and trustworthy. I’ve had a few occasions where a cook doesn’t show up, but Darpreet has always come to my rescue. He also helps train the new guys, making sure they are comfortable in our kitchen environment.

I strongly encourage you to consider Darpreet as a cook in your fine establishment. He is motivated, creative, and has a keen eye for detail. I am sad to see him go, but I am convinced he will bring the same enthusiasm to his next job. You can call me at (330) 378-1217 if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,

Gary Campbell
Back of House Supervisor
Joe’s Restaurant