Writing a compelling recommendation letter is a crucial skill, whether you’re advocating for a student, a colleague, or an employee. A well-crafted letter can significantly impact their chances of securing a job, gaining admission to a program, or achieving other important goals. However, knowing *where* to start and *how* to structure your thoughts can be challenging. This guide provides 19 diverse recommendation letter samples, covering various situations and highlighting key elements that make a recommendation truly effective. We’ll explore examples for different roles, industries, and purposes, offering insights into tailoring your letter to the specific needs of the recipient and the target audience. By understanding the nuances of each sample, you’ll be well-equipped to write powerful and persuasive recommendations that truly make a difference.
Before diving into the samples, it’s important to remember the core principles of a strong recommendation. Authenticity is paramount; genuine enthusiasm and specific examples are far more impactful than generic praise. Relevance is key; focus on skills and qualities that directly align with the opportunity the candidate is pursuing. Clarity is essential; use concise language and a clear structure to ensure your message is easily understood. Finally, Accuracy is vital; double-check all facts and details to avoid any misrepresentations. Keep these principles in mind as you review the following examples, and you’ll be well on your way to writing outstanding recommendation letters. This article provides practical examples that will support your ability to write a letter that opens doors for your colleagues, students and friends. It’s an investment in their future and shows the strength of your relationship.
19 Recommendation Letter Samples: Covering Various Scenarios
Sample 1: Recommendation Letter for a Student Applying to College
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to [University Name]. I have had the privilege of knowing [Student’s Name] for the past [Number] years as their [Your Role] at [Your Institution].
[Student’s Name] is an exceptional student with a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for learning. In my [Your Subject] class, they consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of complex concepts and a willingness to go above and beyond to excel. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example of their academic achievement or contribution].
Beyond academics, [Student’s Name] is also a remarkable individual. [He/She/They] is [Positive personality traits, e.g., highly motivated, responsible, and collaborative]. [He/She/They] actively participated in [Extracurricular activities], demonstrating [Skills gained from activities, e.g., leadership skills and a commitment to teamwork].
I am confident that [Student’s Name] would be a valuable addition to your university community. [He/She/They] possesses the intelligence, drive, and character to succeed in your rigorous academic environment. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Recommendation Letter for an Employee Applying for a New Job
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Manager]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name, or Hiring Manager],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Employee’s Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Employee’s Name] for [Number] years at [Your Company], where [he/she/they] served as our [Employee’s Position].
During [his/her/their] time at [Your Company], [Employee’s Name] consistently exceeded expectations. [He/She/They] is a highly skilled and dedicated professional with a proven track record of success in [Relevant skills or areas of expertise]. For instance, [he/she/they] [Specific accomplishment or project where they excelled]. This resulted in [quantifiable positive outcome].
[Employee’s Name] is also a valuable team player. [He/She/They] is [Positive personality traits, e.g., proactive, communicative, and problem-solving oriented]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated the ability to [Specific example of teamwork or collaboration].
I am confident that [Employee’s Name] possesses the skills and experience necessary to excel in the role of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She/They] is a highly motivated and talented individual who would be a valuable asset to your team. I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her/them] for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Recommendation Letter for Graduate School
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[Graduate Program Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to the [Graduate Program Name] program at [University Name]. I have known [Student’s Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] [Your Role] at [Your Institution].
[Student’s Name] is an exceptional student with a strong academic background and a clear passion for [Field of Study]. In my [Course Name] class, [he/she/they] consistently demonstrated [Specific skills or qualities relevant to graduate study, e.g., critical thinking, analytical skills, research abilities]. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example of their academic work or contribution].
[Student’s Name]’s research interests align perfectly with the goals of your program. [He/She/They] is particularly interested in [Specific area of research], and I believe [his/her/their] skills and dedication would make [him/her/them] a valuable contributor to your research community. [He/She/They] actively sought out opportunities to [Related experience, e.g., assist with research projects, attend conferences].
I am confident that [Student’s Name] has the intellectual capacity, research skills, and dedication to succeed in your demanding graduate program. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Recommendation Letter for Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Scholarship Committee
[Scholarship Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Student’s Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Student’s Name] for [Number] years as [his/her/their] [Your Role] at [Your Institution].
[Student’s Name] is an outstanding student who has consistently demonstrated academic excellence and a strong commitment to [Field of Study or Area of Interest]. [He/She/They] maintains a [GPA] GPA while also actively participating in [Extracurricular Activities]. In my [Course Name] class, [he/she/they] stood out due to [Specific qualities or achievements, e.g., insightful contributions to class discussions, exceptional performance on assignments]. [He/She/They] [Specific example of their academic achievement].
Beyond academic achievements, [Student’s Name] is a remarkable individual with a strong character and a dedication to serving others. [He/She/They] volunteers at [Organization Name], where [he/she/they] [Specific responsibilities and contributions]. [He/She/They] is also [Positive personality traits, e.g., a highly motivated, compassionate, and resilient individual].
I believe that [Student’s Name] embodies the values of the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. [He/She/They] is a deserving candidate who has the potential to make a significant contribution to [Field of Study or Society]. I highly recommend [him/her/them] for this scholarship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Recommendation Letter for a Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name, if known, otherwise: Volunteer Coordinator]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Volunteer Coordinator Last Name, or Volunteer Coordinator],
I am pleased to recommend [Volunteer’s Name] for a volunteer position at [Organization Name]. I have had the opportunity to work with [Volunteer’s Name] as [his/her/their] [Your Role] at [Your Organization] for the past [Number] months/years.
During [his/her/their] time with us, [Volunteer’s Name] has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to [Cause or Mission of the Organization]. [He/She/They] is [Positive personality traits, e.g., reliable, enthusiastic, and dedicated]. For example, [he/she/they] [Specific example of their volunteer work or contribution].
[Volunteer’s Name] possesses excellent [Skills relevant to volunteer work, e.g., communication skills, organizational skills, teamwork abilities]. [He/She/They] is also [Positive personality traits, e.g., a quick learner and adaptable to new situations]. [He/She/They] consistently goes above and beyond to help [Who they helped or the cause they supported].
I am confident that [Volunteer’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your volunteer team. [He/She/They] is a highly motivated and compassionate individual with a genuine desire to make a difference. I highly recommend [him/her/them] for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Recommendation Letter for an Internship
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution/Company]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Manager]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name, or Hiring Manager],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Student/Applicant’s Name] for the [Internship Name] internship at [Company Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Student/Applicant’s Name] for [Number] months/years as [his/her/their] [Your Role] at [Your Institution/Company].
[Student/Applicant’s Name] is a highly motivated and capable individual with a strong interest in [Relevant Field]. In my [Course Name/Project Name], [he/she/they] consistently demonstrated [Specific skills or qualities relevant to the internship, e.g., strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, attention to detail]. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example of their work or contribution that showcases their skills].
[Student/Applicant’s Name] is also a [Positive personality traits, e.g., proactive, enthusiastic, and collaborative] individual. [He/She/They] is eager to learn and possesses a strong work ethic. [He/She/They] actively sought out opportunities to [Related experiences, e.g., expand their knowledge in the field, contribute to team projects].
I am confident that [Student/Applicant’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your internship program. [He/She/They] has the skills, enthusiasm, and dedication to succeed in this role. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Peer Recommendation Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Company/Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Manager/Admissions Committee]
[Recipient Title/Position]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Company/Organization Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or Hiring Manager/Admissions Committee],
I am writing to recommend [Colleague’s Name] for [Position/Program/Opportunity]. I have worked alongside [Colleague’s Name] at [Company/Organization Name] as a [Your Role] for the past [Number] years.
During our time working together, I have been consistently impressed by [Colleague’s Name]’s [Positive Qualities, e.g., dedication, work ethic, and collaborative spirit]. [He/She/They] consistently goes above and beyond to [Specific Example of their positive contributions]. For example, [He/She/They] [Detailed example showcasing their skills and impact].
[Colleague’s Name] also possesses excellent [Skills relevant to the position/program, e.g., communication, problem-solving, leadership]. [He/She/They] is a valuable asset to any team due to [Specific reason, e.g., their ability to think critically, their commitment to excellence, their positive attitude]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrates [Specific behavior that exemplifies their skills].
I am confident that [Colleague’s Name] would be a valuable addition to your team/program. [He/She/They] has the skills, experience, and dedication to succeed in this role/opportunity. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Character Reference Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Manager/Landlord/Etc.]
[Recipient Title/Position]
[Organization Name, if applicable]
[Organization Address, if applicable]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or Title],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Person’s Name]. I have known [Person’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a neighbor, a friend, a colleague from a volunteer organization].
Throughout our relationship, I have consistently been impressed by [Person’s Name]’s [Positive Qualities – e.g., integrity, honesty, and compassion]. [He/She/They] is a [Describe their personality – e.g., reliable, trustworthy, and responsible] individual who always [Specific example illustrating their positive qualities – e.g., goes out of their way to help others, is always punctual and prepared, is a strong advocate for their community].
[He/She/They] has consistently demonstrated [Specific skills or traits relevant to the purpose of the reference – e.g., strong communication skills, organizational abilities, a commitment to fairness]. For instance, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating the skill or trait].
I am confident that [Person’s Name] possesses the character and qualities necessary to succeed in [The Situation for which the reference is needed – e.g., a new job, renting an apartment, joining an organization]. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Recommendation for a Teacher
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your School/Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Committee]
[School/Organization Name]
[School/Organization Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or Hiring Committee],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Teacher’s Name] for a teaching position at [School/Organization Name]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Teacher’s Name] as [Your Role – e.g., their principal, a fellow teacher, a mentor] at [Your School/Organization] for the past [Number] years.
[Teacher’s Name] is an exceptional educator with a genuine passion for teaching and a deep commitment to student success. [He/She/They] possesses a strong understanding of [Subject Matter] and effectively engages students through [Teaching Methods – e.g., innovative lesson plans, interactive activities, personalized learning approaches]. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating their teaching skills and impact on students].
[Teacher’s Name] also excels at creating a positive and supportive learning environment. [He/She/They] is [Positive Qualities – e.g., patient, encouraging, and approachable], and [he/she/they] fosters a classroom culture of [Desired Classroom Culture – e.g., respect, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity]. [He/She/They] consistently goes above and beyond to [Specific examples of how they support students].
I am confident that [Teacher’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your school community. [He/She/They] has the skills, experience, and dedication to make a significant positive impact on your students. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Recommendation for a Coach
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Organization/Team]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager/Selection Committee Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Committee]
[Organization/Team Name]
[Organization/Team Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or Hiring Committee],
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Coach’s Name] for the coaching position at [Organization/Team Name]. I have known [Coach’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Role – e.g., a player on the team, a parent of a player, an assistant coach].
[Coach’s Name] is an exceptional coach who possesses a deep understanding of [Sport/Activity] and a proven ability to motivate and develop athletes. [He/She/They] creates a positive and challenging training environment where athletes can reach their full potential. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating their coaching skills and impact on athletes, e.g., implemented a new training program that resulted in significant performance improvements, successfully mentored a struggling athlete to achieve their goals].
[Coach’s Name] is also a strong leader and communicator. [He/She/They] effectively communicates with athletes, parents, and other stakeholders. [He/She/They] fosters a team culture of [Desired Team Culture – e.g., respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrates [Qualities that make them a great coach, e.g., dedication, passion, and a commitment to athlete well-being].
I am confident that [Coach’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your organization. [He/She/They] has the skills, experience, and dedication to build a successful and positive program. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Recommendation for a Landlord (for a tenant)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name, if known, otherwise: Landlord]
[Property Management Company, if applicable]
[Property Address, if applicable]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or Landlord],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a reliable and responsible tenant. I have been [Tenant’s Name]’s landlord at [Your Property Address] for the past [Number] years.
During [his/her/their] tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] has consistently been a respectful and considerate tenant. [He/She/They] has always paid rent on time and has maintained the property in excellent condition. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating their responsibility and care for the property].
[Tenant’s Name] is also a [Positive Qualities – e.g., quiet, courteous, and communicative] tenant. [He/She/They] has always been responsive to my communication and has promptly reported any maintenance issues. [He/She/They] is a [Positive Quality – e.g., trustworthy and dependable] individual.
I am confident that [Tenant’s Name] would be an excellent tenant for your property. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Recommendation for a Babysitter/Nanny
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Parent(s) Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Family]
[Address, if known]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name(s), or Hiring Family],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Babysitter/Nanny’s Name] as a babysitter/nanny for your child(ren). [He/She/They] has been our babysitter/nanny for [Number] years, caring for our [Child(ren)’s Age(s)] year old [Child(ren)’s Name(s)].
[Babysitter/Nanny’s Name] is a responsible, caring, and engaging caregiver. [He/She/They] is excellent at [Specific skills and abilities – e.g., planning fun and age-appropriate activities, preparing healthy meals, ensuring the safety and well-being of our children]. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating their skills and positive impact on the children, e.g., created a reading program that helped our child improve their literacy skills, always has creative and engaging activities planned, is excellent at handling challenging situations].
[Babysitter/Nanny’s Name] is also [Positive Qualities – e.g., reliable, punctual, and trustworthy]. We have always felt comfortable leaving our children in [his/her/their] care. [He/She/They] is [Positive Quality – e.g., communicative and responsive] and always keeps us informed about our children’s activities and well-being.
I am confident that [Babysitter/Nanny’s Name] would be a wonderful addition to your family. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Recommendation for a Business Partner
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient Name/Organization, if known, otherwise: To Whom It May Concern]
[Recipient Title/Position, if known]
[Organization Name, if known]
[Organization Address, if known]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Business Partner’s Name] as a valuable business partner. I have had the pleasure of working with [Business Partner’s Name] at [Your Company/Joint Venture] for the past [Number] years.
[Business Partner’s Name] is a highly skilled and dedicated professional with a proven track record of success in [Industry/Area of Expertise]. [He/She/They] possesses a strong understanding of [Specific Knowledge/Skills] and is adept at [Key Skills – e.g., strategic planning, business development, and financial management]. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating their skills and positive impact on the business, e.g., led the development of a new product that significantly increased revenue, successfully negotiated a key partnership agreement].
[Business Partner’s Name] is also an excellent communicator and collaborator. [He/She/They] effectively builds relationships with clients, partners, and colleagues. [He/She/They] is [Positive Qualities – e.g., innovative, results-oriented, and a strong problem-solver].
I am confident that [Business Partner’s Name] would be a valuable asset to any organization seeking a strong and reliable business partner. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Recommendation for a Tutor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Parent(s) Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Family/Organization]
[Address, if known]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name(s), or Hiring Family/Organization],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Tutor’s Name] as a tutor. [He/She/They] has been tutoring my [Child(ren)’s Age(s)] year old [Child(ren)’s Name(s)] in [Subject(s)] for the past [Number] months/years.
[Tutor’s Name] is a knowledgeable, patient, and engaging tutor. [He/She/They] has a strong understanding of [Subject(s)] and is able to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating their tutoring skills and positive impact on the student(s), e.g., helped my child improve their grade in math from a C to an A, developed a personalized study plan that significantly improved my child’s test scores].
[Tutor’s Name] is also [Positive Qualities – e.g., reliable, punctual, and enthusiastic]. My child(ren) enjoy working with [him/her/them] and have made significant progress in [Subject(s)]. [He/She/They] is [Positive Quality – e.g., dedicated and committed] to helping students succeed.
I am confident that [Tutor’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your family/organization. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Recommendation for a Contractor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager/Client Name, if known, otherwise: Hiring Party]
[Address, if known]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or Hiring Party],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Contractor’s Name] for your contracting needs. [He/She/They] recently completed [Project Description] for me at my home/business at [Your Address].
[Contractor’s Name] is a highly skilled and professional contractor with a strong attention to detail. [He/She/They] delivered high-quality workmanship and completed the project on time and within budget. For example, [He/She/They] [Specific example demonstrating their skills and positive impact on the project, e.g., expertly installed new flooring that completely transformed the room, meticulously completed a complex electrical wiring project].
[Contractor’s Name] is also [Positive Qualities – e.g., reliable, communicative, and trustworthy]. [He/She/They] kept me informed throughout the project and addressed any concerns promptly. [He/She/They] is [Positive Quality – e.g., organized and efficient] and managed the project effectively.<