What Should a Letter of Recommendation Include?
A compelling letter of recommendation is more than just a formality; it’s a powerful endorsement that can significantly impact a candidate’s chances of success, whether for a job application, university admission, scholarship, or other opportunities. It provides a unique perspective on the applicant’s qualifications, character, and potential, offering insights that transcripts, resumes, and standardized tests simply cannot capture. Think of it as a character reference with specific examples, demonstrating why the candidate is an excellent fit for the opportunity at hand. The most effective letters are not generic templates but rather personalized accounts highlighting specific achievements and qualities that resonate with the target audience. They tell a story about the applicant, painting a vivid picture of their capabilities and potential.
Crafting a truly effective letter of recommendation requires careful consideration and a structured approach. It’s not just about listing positive attributes; it’s about providing concrete evidence and specific examples to support those claims. The letter should begin with a clear introduction stating your relationship to the applicant and the purpose of the letter. The body of the letter should delve into the applicant’s skills, strengths, and accomplishments, illustrating these points with anecdotes and relevant examples from your interactions with them. Finally, the letter should conclude with a strong endorsement of the applicant’s candidacy and an offer to provide further information if needed. Remember, the goal is to persuade the reader that the applicant is a deserving and capable individual who will thrive in the target environment. A well-written letter acts as a powerful advocate, highlighting the candidate’s unique value proposition.
Sample Letters of Recommendation
Sample Letter 1: For a College Applicant
[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 [Applicant Name] for admission to [University Name]. I have had the opportunity to know [Applicant Name] for the past [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., History Teacher] at [School Name].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptionally bright and motivated student. In my History class, they consistently demonstrated a keen interest in learning and a remarkable ability to think critically. For example, during our unit on the American Revolution, [Applicant Name] wrote an outstanding research paper analyzing the socio-economic factors that contributed to the conflict. Their work was insightful, well-researched, and presented a unique perspective on the topic.
Beyond their academic abilities, [Applicant Name] is also a highly responsible and engaged member of the school community. They are actively involved in [Extracurricular Activities] and serve as a [Leadership Role] in [Club/Organization]. Their dedication and commitment to these activities demonstrate their strong work ethic and willingness to contribute to the greater good. I recall one instance where [Applicant Name] took the initiative to organize a fundraising event for [Cause], raising over [Amount] for the organization.
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They are able to articulate their ideas clearly and effectively, both in writing and in oral presentations. They are also a highly collaborative individual, working effectively with their peers on group projects and demonstrating a willingness to listen to and consider different perspectives.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] has the intellectual capacity, personal qualities, and drive to succeed at [University Name]. They are a truly exceptional student, and I highly recommend them for admission. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 2: For a Job Applicant
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Hiring Manager
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Applicant Name] for the past [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Supervisor] at [Company Name].
During their time at [Company Name], [Applicant Name] consistently exceeded expectations. They possess a strong understanding of [Relevant Skills/Industry Knowledge] and are able to apply their knowledge effectively to solve complex problems. For example, [Applicant Name] played a key role in [Project/Accomplishment], which resulted in [Positive Outcome]. Their contributions were instrumental to the success of the project.
[Applicant Name] is a highly motivated and results-oriented individual. They are always eager to take on new challenges and are committed to delivering high-quality work. I was particularly impressed by their ability to [Specific Skill, e.g., manage multiple projects simultaneously] while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
In addition to their technical skills, [Applicant Name] is also a valuable team player. They are able to communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels and are always willing to lend a helping hand. Their positive attitude and collaborative spirit make them a pleasure to work with. I recall one instance where [Applicant Name] mentored a junior employee, providing them with guidance and support that helped them to improve their performance.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your team. They are a highly skilled, motivated, and dedicated individual with a proven track record of success. I highly recommend them for this position without reservation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 3: For a Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Scholarship Committee
[Scholarship Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Applicant Name] as their [Your Role, e.g., Professor] in [Course Name] at [Institution Name] for the past [Number] semesters.
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional student who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for learning. In my [Course Name] class, they consistently earned top grades and actively participated in class discussions. Their insightful comments and thoughtful questions demonstrated a deep understanding of the subject matter. For instance, in their final research paper on [Topic], [Applicant Name] demonstrated a remarkable ability to synthesize complex information and present a compelling argument.
Beyond their academic achievements, [Applicant Name] is also actively involved in [Extracurricular Activities] and [Community Service]. They are committed to making a positive impact on their community and have demonstrated a strong sense of social responsibility. I was particularly impressed by their work with [Organization] where they [Specific Activity]. This demonstrated their dedication to helping others and their ability to work effectively as part of a team.
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent leadership skills and a strong sense of initiative. They are able to motivate and inspire others and are always willing to go the extra mile to achieve their goals. I am confident that they have the potential to make significant contributions to their field of study and to society as a whole.
I believe that [Applicant Name] is an ideal candidate for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. They are a bright, dedicated, and compassionate individual who is committed to making a difference. I highly recommend them for this scholarship without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 4: For a Graduate Program
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Graduate Admissions Committee
[University Name]
[Department Name]
[University Address]
Dear Graduate Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for the past [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Research Advisor] in the [Department Name] department at [Institution Name].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptionally talented and dedicated researcher with a strong aptitude for [Specific Area of Study]. During their time working in my lab, they consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to learn new techniques, analyze complex data, and contribute meaningfully to our research projects. For example, [Applicant Name] played a crucial role in our recent study on [Research Topic], which resulted in a publication in [Journal Name]. Their contributions were instrumental to the success of this project.
[Applicant Name] possesses a strong theoretical foundation in [Relevant Field] and a keen interest in pursuing advanced research in [Specific Research Area]. They are highly motivated, independent, and possess the critical thinking skills necessary to succeed in a rigorous graduate program. I was particularly impressed by their ability to [Specific Skill, e.g., design and execute experiments] with minimal supervision.
In addition to their research skills, [Applicant Name] is also an excellent communicator and collaborator. They are able to articulate their ideas clearly and effectively, both in writing and in oral presentations. They are also a valuable member of our research team, contributing to a positive and supportive work environment.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] has the potential to become a leading researcher in their field. They are a highly intelligent, motivated, and dedicated individual with a proven track record of success. I highly recommend them for admission to your [Program Name] program without reservation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 5: For an Internship
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution/Company]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Internship Coordinator
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear Internship Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Internship Title] internship at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] as their [Your Role, e.g., Professor/Supervisor] at [Institution/Company Name] for the past [Number] [Months/Years].
[Applicant Name] is a highly motivated and capable individual with a strong interest in [Industry/Field]. During their time in my [Class/Department], they consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn new skills. For instance, in [Specific Project/Assignment], [Applicant Name] [Specific Action] which showed [Specific Skill]. Their performance was exemplary.
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent [Specific Skill] and [Specific Skill] skills, which I believe would be valuable assets in an internship setting. They are also a highly organized and detail-oriented individual with a strong ability to manage their time effectively. I observed this when [Specific Example related to organization and time management].
Beyond their technical skills, [Applicant Name] is also a positive and enthusiastic individual with a strong team spirit. They are able to communicate effectively with others and are always willing to lend a helping hand. I am confident that they would be a valuable addition to your team and would make a significant contribution to your internship program.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for this internship and believe they have the potential to excel in this role. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 6: For a Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Volunteer Coordinator
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position at [Organization Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Teacher, Mentor] at [School/Organization Name].
[Applicant Name] is a compassionate and dedicated individual with a genuine desire to help others. They consistently demonstrate a strong work ethic and a willingness to go above and beyond to support their community. For example, [Applicant Name] volunteered their time to [Specific Volunteer Activity] where they [Specific Contribution]. Their commitment was truly inspiring.
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent interpersonal skills and a strong ability to connect with people from all walks of life. They are a patient and empathetic listener and are able to communicate effectively with both children and adults. I observed this while [Specific Instance showcasing interpersonal skills].
In addition to their interpersonal skills, [Applicant Name] is also a highly responsible and reliable individual. They are always punctual and prepared and are committed to fulfilling their obligations. You can depend on them to follow through on commitments.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your volunteer team. They are a caring, dedicated, and reliable individual with a strong desire to make a positive impact. I highly recommend them for this opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 7: For a Leadership Role
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization/Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Selection Committee
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Selection Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Leadership Role Name] position at [Organization Name]. I have had the privilege of knowing [Applicant Name] for the past [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Supervisor, Mentor, Professor] at [Organization/Institution Name].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional leader with a proven track record of success. They possess a strong vision, a strategic mindset, and the ability to inspire and motivate others to achieve common goals. During their time as [Applicant’s Previous Role], they consistently exceeded expectations and demonstrated a remarkable ability to [Specific Leadership Accomplishment]. This involved [Details of the accomplishment and its impact].
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills, which enable them to build strong relationships with colleagues at all levels. They are a skilled negotiator, a patient listener, and an effective communicator. I’ve witnessed them resolve conflicts effectively and build consensus amongst diverse groups. For example, [Specific example of conflict resolution or consensus building].
In addition to their leadership skills, [Applicant Name] is also a highly dedicated and results-oriented individual. They are committed to excellence and are always willing to go the extra mile to achieve their goals. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your organization and would make a significant contribution to your success.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for this leadership role without any reservation. Their skills, experience, and dedication make them an ideal candidate. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 8: For a Fellowship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Fellowship Committee
[Fellowship Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Fellowship Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Fellowship Name] fellowship. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Research Advisor, Professor] at [Institution Name].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptionally talented and dedicated scholar with a strong passion for [Field of Study]. During their time working with me on [Project/Research Area], they consistently demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for [Specific Skills, e.g., critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving]. For instance, their work on [Specific Aspect of Project] led to [Positive Outcome, e.g., significant findings, a publication].
[Applicant Name] possesses a deep understanding of [Relevant Theoretical Concepts] and is capable of applying this knowledge to address complex research questions. They are also highly motivated, independent, and possess excellent research skills. I observed this when they [Specific Example showcasing research skills].
Beyond their research abilities, [Applicant Name] is also an excellent communicator and collaborator. They are able to articulate their ideas clearly and effectively, both in writing and in oral presentations. They are also a valuable member of our research team, contributing to a positive and supportive work environment. I’m always impressed by their ability to [Positive Communication Skill].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to the field of [Field of Study]. The [Fellowship Name] fellowship would provide them with the opportunity to further develop their research skills and pursue their academic goals. I highly recommend them without reservation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 9: For a Medical Residency
[Your Name], MD
[Your Title], [Department]
[Your Hospital/Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Residency Program Director
[Residency Program Name]
[Hospital/Institution Address]
Dear Residency Program Director,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for a residency position in [Specialty] at [Hospital Name]. I have had the opportunity to work with [Applicant Name] as their [Your Role, e.g., Attending Physician, Clinical Preceptor] during their [Rotation Name] rotation at [Hospital Name] for the past [Number] weeks/months.
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional medical student who consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, a thirst for knowledge, and a genuine compassion for their patients. They quickly grasped complex medical concepts and applied their knowledge effectively to diagnose and treat patients. For example, [Applicant Name] impressed me with their ability to [Specific Clinical Skill] during [Specific Case/Situation].
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent clinical skills, including [Specific Skill 1], [Specific Skill 2], and [Specific Skill 3]. They are also a highly organized and detail-oriented individual with a strong ability to manage their time effectively. Their ability to [Example of organization or time management] was remarkable.
Beyond their clinical abilities, [Applicant Name] is also a valuable member of the healthcare team. They communicate effectively with patients, nurses, and other physicians and are always willing to lend a helping hand. Their empathy and communication skills are particularly noteworthy. They demonstrated this through [Example showcasing empathy/communication].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] has the potential to become an outstanding physician. They are a bright, dedicated, and compassionate individual who is committed to providing the best possible care to their patients. I highly recommend them for a residency position in your program without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name], MD
Sample Letter 10: For a Teaching Position
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your School/Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Hiring Committee
[School/Institution Name]
[School/Institution Address]
Dear Hiring Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Teaching Position] position at [School/Institution Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Principal, Department Chair, Mentor Teacher] at [School/Institution Name].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional educator with a passion for teaching and a commitment to student success. They have a deep understanding of [Subject Area] and are able to effectively engage students in the learning process. During their time at [School/Institution Name], they consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to [Specific Teaching Skill, e.g., differentiate instruction, create engaging lesson plans, foster a positive classroom environment]. An example of this is when [Specific example demonstrating the teaching skill].
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills, which enable them to build strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. They are a skilled communicator, a patient listener, and an effective collaborator. I remember a time when [Specific example of communication or collaboration].
In addition to their teaching skills, [Applicant Name] is also a highly dedicated and reflective practitioner. They are constantly seeking ways to improve their teaching and are committed to lifelong learning. They actively participate in professional development opportunities and are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise with others.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your faculty. They are a talented, dedicated, and passionate educator who is committed to making a difference in the lives of their students. I highly recommend them for this position without reservation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Letter 11: For a Research Grant
[Your Name], PhD
[Your Title], [Department]
[Your University/Institution]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Grant Review Committee
[Granting Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Grant Review Committee,
I am writing to express my strong support for the research proposal submitted by [Applicant Name], entitled “[Project Title]”. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Research Mentor, Collaborator, Professor] in the [Department Name] department at [University/Institution Name].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptionally talented and dedicated researcher with a proven track record of success in [Research Area]. Their proposed research project, “[Project Title]”, addresses a significant and timely question in the field of [Field of Study]. The project is well-designed, methodologically sound, and has the potential to generate significant new knowledge. For example, their preliminary work in [Related Area] has already yielded [Positive Result/Finding].
[Applicant Name] possesses the necessary skills, expertise, and resources to successfully complete this research project. They have a strong understanding of [Relevant Concepts/Techniques] and are capable of independently designing and conducting complex experiments. I am especially impressed by their ability to [Specific Research Skill].
Beyond their technical skills, [Applicant Name] is also an excellent communicator and collaborator. They are able to articulate their research findings clearly and effectively, both in writing and in oral presentations. They are also a valuable member of our research team, contributing to a positive and supportive work environment. Their insightful contributions to our discussions have been invaluable.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] will make significant contributions to the field of [Field of Study] through this research project. The funding provided by this grant will enable them to pursue this important work and advance our understanding of [Key Area]. I highly recommend this proposal for funding without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name], PhD
Sample Letter 12: For a Board Membership
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Nominating Committee
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Nominating Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for membership on the Board of Directors of [Organization Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role, e.g., Colleague, Mentor, Supervisor] at [Organization/Company Name].
[Applicant Name] is a highly respected and accomplished individual with a strong commitment to [Organization’s Mission/Values]. They possess a deep understanding of [Relevant Industry/Field] and have a proven track record of success in [Area of Expertise]. Their experience with [Specific Project/Achievement] demonstrates their ability to [Specific Skill relevant to board membership, e.g., strategic planning, financial management, fundraising].
[Applicant Name] possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills, which enable them to build strong relationships with colleagues at all levels. They are a skilled negotiator, a patient listener, and an effective communicator. They bring a unique perspective and invaluable experience to the table. During [Specific Situation], they demonstrated their ability to [Key Board Member Attribute].
In addition to their professional skills, [Applicant Name] is also a highly dedicated and philanthropic individual. They are actively involved in [Community Activities/Volunteer Work] and are committed to making a positive impact on the world. Their commitment to [Cause aligned with the organization] makes them an ideal candidate.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your Board of Directors. They are a talented, dedicated, and passionate individual who is committed to the success of [Organization Name]. I highly recommend them for this position without reservation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion: The Power of a Well-Crafted Recommendation
In conclusion, a thoughtfully constructed letter of recommendation is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance a candidate’s prospects. By focusing on specific examples, highlighting relevant skills, and demonstrating a genuine understanding of the applicant’s strengths and potential, you can create a compelling narrative that resonates with the reader. Remember to tailor each letter to the specific opportunity, ensuring that the content aligns with the requirements and expectations of the target audience. A well-written recommendation goes beyond simply stating positive attributes; it provides concrete evidence and compelling stories that showcase the applicant’s unique value proposition. By investing the time and effort to craft a truly exceptional letter, you can play a pivotal role in helping a deserving individual achieve their goals.
Ultimately, the best letters of recommendation are those that are authentic, personalized, and persuasive. They demonstrate a genuine commitment to the applicant’s success and provide the reader with a clear understanding of why the candidate is an exceptional choice. By following the guidelines and examples outlined in this article, you can create letters that are both informative and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the reader and significantly increasing the applicant’s chances of success. So, take the time, reflect on your experiences with the candidate, and craft a letter that truly captures their potential. Your words can make a significant difference.