What is a Good Example of a Letter of Recommendation?

As a consultant, I understand the implications of a question such as, 'What is a good example of a letter of recommendation?' A layman might wonder what is so special beyond the right person saying the best they know about you and recommending you.

Well, that could be right if the recommender understands what the choice of words and areas of attention should be in the letters. However, experience has shown that not all recommenders focus on what matters. Whereas what matters makes a recommendation letter a good one.

In this post, using a typical template of a letter of recommendation, I will be giving references to certain areas of the letters that must be well thought out to make it different in the wild.

What is a Letter of Recommendation?

You might be missing something important if you don't understand the true meaning of a letter of recommendation. So, what is it?

A letter of recommendation is written by a person, usually a:

• supervisor,
• professor,
• teacher,
• proprietor,
• boss, or
• professional colleague.

The letter is typically written to provide insights into an applicant's abilities, character, accomplishments, and potential.

As you might have deduced from the above, whoever will write a letter of recommendation must be a person who can truly attest to the individual's qualifications from having worked closely with him or her and can vouch for his or her capabilities and suitability for the position or opportunity in question.

What Makes a Good Letter of Recommendation

A good letter of recommendation is one that provides specific information about the person being recommended, including their capabilities, achievements, and how they stand out from their peers. It should be well-structured, concise, and clearly articulate the recommender's endorsement of the individual. 

Key components of a Letter of Recommendation include:

1. Introduction: The writer introduces themselves, their relationship with the applicant, and the length of time they have known the applicant.
2. Body: The main part of the letter, which provides detailed information about the applicant's skills, achievements, work ethic, and personal qualities. Specific examples and anecdotes are often included to illustrate the applicant's capabilities and character.
3. Conclusion: A summary of the applicant's qualifications and a strong endorsement of their candidacy for the position or program. The writer might also include their contact information, offering to provide further information if needed.

Below is a general template for a letter of recommendation that can be adapted to various contexts, such as academic applications, job applications, or other professional settings.

Sender's Name

Sender's Position

Sender's Institution/Organization

Sender's Address

Sender's City, State

Sender's Email Address

Sender's Phone Number

Today’s Date

Recipient's Name

Recipient's Position

Recipient's Institution/Organization

Recipient's Address

Recipient's City, State

Dear Recipient's Name (or Sir/Ma),

I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend (Candidate's Name) for (specific position, opportunity, or purpose, e.g., the Master's program at XYZ University, the open position at ABC Corporation, etc.). As (your relationship to the candidate, e.g., their professor, supervisor, etc.), I have had the pleasure of observing and evaluating his skills, work ethic, and accomplishments over the past [duration you've known the candidate] and can attest to their exceptional abilities and potential.

During a challenging project/task/course, he demonstrated remarkable (mention specific skill or quality, e.g., problem-solving ability, leadership, dedication, etc.), by (describe what they did, highlighting the impact and outcome). This not only contributed significantly to the (project's/course's/team's success) but also exemplified their capacity for hard work, creativity, and teamwork.

Aside from his technical skills and academic prowess, he is a person of excellent character. He is (describe personal qualities, e.g., dependable, compassionate, enthusiastic), making them a pleasure to work with.

I am confident that he will bring the same level of excellence, dedication, and innovative spirit to (specific position or opportunity) that he has shown during the time I have known him. He is uniquely equipped to contribute positively and significantly to your (program/team/company), and I enthusiastically support his application.

Please feel free to contact me at (your contact information) if you need further information or a more detailed discussion about his qualifications and achievements.

Sincerely,

Sender's Signature (if you're sending a hard copy)

Sender's Name

Sender's Position

NOTE:

1. Sender's names and other details won't be necessary if the letter will be printed on an official letterhead. Hence, only today's date will appear right at the top of the letter.
2. The first paragraph gives an account of your sender's relationship with the candidate and the position and/or organization they propose to.
3. Paragraphs 2 and 3 provide specific examples and detailed evaluations of the candidate's skills and accomplishments. Highlight their relevant academic achievements, contributions to projects or teams, leadership qualities, technical skills, personal character, and any other attributes that make them a strong candidate for the opportunity they are seeking. Including a personal story is acceptable in paragraph 3.
4. Paragraph 4 contains the affirmation of your recommendation of the candidate.

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