Letter of Recommendation Template Salutation If you are writing a personal recommendation letter, include a salutation (Dear Dr.

Smothers, Dear Ms. Miller, etc.). If you are writing a general letter, say "To Whom it May Concern" or simply don't include a salutation. Paragraph 1 The first paragraph of the recommendation letter explains your connection to the person you are recommending, including how you know them, and why you are qualified to write a recommendation letter to recommend employment or graduate school. Paragraph 2 The second paragraph of the recommendation letter contains specific information on the person you are writing about, including why they are qualified, what they can contribute, and why you are providing a reference letter. If necessary, use more than one paragraph to provide details. Paragraph 3 When writing a specific letter referring a candidate for a particular job opening, the recommendation letter will include information on how the person's skills match the position they are applying for. Ask for a copy of the job posting and a copy of the person's resume so you can target your recommendation letter accordingly. Summary This section of the recommendation letter contains a brief summary of why are you are recommending the person. State that you "highly recommend" the person or you "recommend without reservation" or something similar. Conclusion The concluding paragraph of the recommendation letter contains an offer to provide more information. Include a phone number within the paragraph, include the phone number and email address in the return address section of your letter, or in your signature. Sincerely, Writer Name Title

Employment recommendation
Whether you are laid off or leave your job on your own accord a letter of recommendation from your employer can be a valuable tool for finding a new job. Such a letter is often preferable to listing your supervisor and his or her phone number on your resume. A reference letter Provides an organized analysis of your attributes and abilities Is a "fresh when written" appraisal not clouded by time Creates an unchanging assessment Saves future employers the effort of interviewing your former supervisor Saves your former supervisor the time and trouble of being interviewed

Importantly, obtaining a written letter also gives you insight into how your former employer perceives you-- on balance either favorably or unfavorably. With this information in hand you can spotlight a good reference or downplay a poor one.

Academic recommendation
Letters of recommendation are required for acceptance to the vast majority of both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Often applicants must provide three or more letters. While requirements differ by institution, program and concentration, generally speaking successful academic recommendations should Provide testimony to your aptitude, curiosity and industriousness Demonstrate your maturity and seriousness of purpose Speak to your leadership ability Paint you as "well rounded" Compliment your character Include other pertinent information about you-- things not readily apparent from admission test scores or transcripts

Character reference
Character reference letters are a special category of recommendation because they are usually written by friends, neighbors or relatives. These letters meet a variety of non-employment and nonacademic related needs. Everything from gaining memberships and winning awards to child custody and adoptions. Character reference letters can also be useful in job seeking