How to End a Recommendation Letter: Powerful Closings

Crafting a compelling recommendation letter involves more than just detailing the candidate’s strengths and achievements. The closing paragraph is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the reader and advocate for the individual’s suitability for the position or program. A well-written conclusion reinforces your overall assessment and encourages the recipient to seriously consider the candidate. This article explores the crucial elements of a strong recommendation letter ending, providing practical tips, effective phrases, and sample letters to guide you.

The closing paragraph of a recommendation letter serves several important purposes. Firstly, it reiterates your overall support for the candidate. Secondly, it provides a clear call to action, encouraging the reader to take the next step, such as scheduling an interview or offering admission. Thirdly, it offers contact information for further inquiries. Finally, it leaves the reader with a positive and memorable impression of both the candidate and yourself. Therefore, paying close attention to the final words of your recommendation can significantly enhance its impact and increase the candidate’s chances of success.

Key Elements of a Powerful Recommendation Letter Ending

A strong closing paragraph typically incorporates the following key elements:

• Reiterate your support: Clearly state your overall recommendation. Use phrases like “I highly recommend,” “I wholeheartedly recommend,” or “I strongly recommend.”
• Summarize key qualities: Briefly remind the reader of the candidate’s most relevant strengths and skills. Focus on the qualities that align with the requirements of the position or program.
• Offer a call to action: Encourage the reader to take the next step. Suggest scheduling an interview, offering admission, or considering the candidate seriously.
• Provide contact information: Offer your email address or phone number for further questions or clarification. This shows your willingness to provide additional support.
• Express confidence: Convey your belief in the candidate’s potential for success. Use phrases like “I am confident that they will excel” or “I am certain they will be a valuable asset.”
• Maintain a professional tone: Ensure your closing is polite, respectful, and reflects the overall tone of the letter.

Effective Phrases to Use in Your Closing Paragraph

Here are some effective phrases you can use to craft a compelling recommendation letter ending:

• “I highly recommend [candidate’s name] without reservation.”
• “I wholeheartedly endorse [candidate’s name] for this opportunity.”
• “I am confident that [candidate’s name] will be a valuable asset to your organization.”
• “Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.”
• “I strongly believe that [candidate’s name] possesses the skills and qualities necessary to succeed in this role.”
• “I encourage you to seriously consider [candidate’s name]’s application.”
• “I am available at [your email address] or [your phone number] should you require any further information.”
• “In summary, I am very impressed with [candidate’s name]’s abilities and potential.”
• “I am certain that [candidate’s name] will excel in this environment.”
• “I offer my strongest possible recommendation for [candidate’s name].”

Things to Avoid in Your Closing Paragraph

Avoid these common pitfalls when writing your closing paragraph:

• Vague or generic statements: Avoid phrases like “I recommend them” without providing specific reasons.
• Unenthusiastic language: Don’t sound hesitant or unsure about your recommendation.
• Irrelevant information: Stick to the candidate’s qualifications and avoid mentioning unrelated details.
• Grammatical errors or typos: Proofread carefully to ensure a professional presentation.
• Unprofessional tone: Maintain a respectful and courteous tone throughout the letter.
• Negative statements: Even if you have minor concerns, focus on the positive aspects of the candidate’s qualifications.

Sample Recommendation Letter Endings

Here are five sample closing paragraphs to illustrate how to effectively end a recommendation letter:

Tailoring Your Closing to the Specific Situation

While the above samples provide a useful starting point, it’s crucial to tailor your closing paragraph to the specific context of the recommendation. Consider the following factors:

• The nature of the opportunity: Are you recommending the candidate for a job, a graduate program, a scholarship, or a volunteer position? Adjust your language and emphasis to align with the specific requirements and expectations of the opportunity.
• The candidate’s strengths and skills: Highlight the candidate’s most relevant qualifications and accomplishments. Focus on the skills and qualities that are most important for success in the target role or program.
• Your relationship with the candidate: The level of detail and formality in your closing paragraph may vary depending on your relationship with the candidate. If you know the candidate well, you can express your support more personally.
• The recipient of the letter: Consider the recipient’s perspective and tailor your language to resonate with their values and priorities. Research the organization or institution to understand their culture and expectations.

For example, if you are recommending a candidate for a highly competitive graduate program, you might emphasize their research experience and academic achievements. If you are recommending a candidate for a customer service position, you might highlight their communication skills and ability to build rapport with customers.

By carefully considering these factors, you can craft a closing paragraph that is both effective and relevant, maximizing the impact of your recommendation letter.

The Importance of Proofreading and Editing

Before submitting your recommendation letter, it’s essential to carefully proofread and edit your work. Even minor errors can detract from your credibility and undermine the impact of your recommendation.

Pay close attention to the following:

• Grammar and spelling: Ensure that your letter is free of grammatical errors and typos. Use a grammar and spell checker to identify potential mistakes.
• Punctuation: Check your punctuation carefully to ensure that it is accurate and consistent.
• Clarity and conciseness: Make sure your writing is clear, concise, and easy to understand. Avoid jargon and unnecessary words.
• Tone and style: Ensure that your letter maintains a professional and respectful tone throughout.

It’s also helpful to ask a colleague or friend to review your letter before you submit it. A fresh pair of eyes can often catch errors that you may have missed.

By taking the time to proofread and edit your work, you can ensure that your recommendation letter is polished, professional, and effectively conveys your support for the candidate.