Recommendation Letter To Help Nominate - Reference Letter Writing Basics

Recommendation Letter To Help Nominate

Begin a letter of reference by stating how long you have known the person, and in what capacity. Use an evaluation of how well the person suits the position he or she is applying for. Point out the person's positive points and downplay the negative.

Unless it is absolutely relevant, do not state the applicant's race, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender or marital status. Don't be too brief. One or two short paragraphs are death to a recommendation letter. On the other hand, be succinct. Make every word count.

These recommendation letter guidelines are important, since writing letters of recommendation is always a somewhat tricky and delicate matter. That's because they almost always affect the reputation and future of the writer or that of another person. Here is a few tips for you to get started.

* Usually, do not agree to write a letter of recommendation for someone unless you know the person reasonably well and can honestly write a supportive letter. He or she will not benefit much from a vague or disinterested letter.
* Keep both hard copies and electronic copies of every letter you send in clearly marked file folders.
* Use words such as excellent, superior, instrumental, creative, innovative, efficient, dependable, articulate, meticulous, self-starter and confident.


Another Sample Reference Letter

I am writing to recommend Name for a position with the town of Wilfred. I have known Name since she was a child and she is a highly qualified candidate for a position in town government. He has lived in Wilfred for most of his life, he is involved in her local community, her church, and her children's schools.

Name is an intelligent and conscientious student. The written work he did for my class was always well above average. He displayed an ability to express her ideas clearly and concisely on paper. He is very articulate in the classroom setting.

Name has a number of strengths to offer an employer. Name is always interested in supporting others. For example, this year when we worked on our class community service project, Name was helpful to me in collecting and organizing the programs here in Wilfred.

Name’s performance and contribution in class were superior. In my judgment, he is a bright, articulate and incisive student. Although somewhat reserved, he is not timid in taking positions or expressing himself. He was one of the few students that year who received extra credit on his final grade based on the quality of his classroom participation. Name’s performance on his final exams was excellent and he ranked near the top of the class.

Name was always willing to offer her assistance and had an excellent rapport with the many constituents served by our office including clients, employers, and other professional organizations. She would be an asset to any employer and I recommend her for any endeavor she chooses to pursue.

Yours truly,

Your Name

Recommendation Letter To Help Nominate