How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

April 10, 2025 | Learning Center

A letter of recommendation is a formal endorsement of someone’s skills, qualities, or experience, often for a job, school application, or internship. A strong recommendation letter highlights the individual’s strengths and provides specific examples of their contributions or achievements. Here’s how to write an effective recommendation letter.

Step 1: Understand the Purpose and Audience

First, confirm who the letter is for and what the letter should focus on. This will guide the tone and length of the letter, as well as the specific qualities to highlight. For example:

• Job recommendation: Focus on job-specific skills, work ethic, and contributions to projects.
• Academic recommendation: Emphasize academic performance, intellectual curiosity, and research skills.
• Character reference: Highlight interpersonal skills, integrity, and any volunteer or community work.

Step 2: Gather Key Details About the Person

Ask the individual for details about the role or program, as well as their key achievements, strengths, and any qualities they’d like you to emphasize. If relevant, review their resume or a list of accomplishments to identify specific examples to include.

Step 3: Start with a Formal Greeting

Use a professional salutation:

• “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],”
• “To the Admissions Committee,”
• “Dear [Recipient’s Title and Last Name],”

If the recipient is unknown, a general greeting like “To whom it may concern” is acceptable.

Step 4: Introduce Yourself and Your Relationship

In the first paragraph, introduce yourself, your position, and your relationship to the person you’re recommending. Include the duration and context of your connection to establish your credibility as a recommender.

My name is Sarah Thompson, and I am the Head of Marketing at XYZ Corporation. I have had the pleasure of working with [Name] for over two years. Throughout this time, [he/she] has consistently demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and impressive creativity.

Step 5: Describe the Individual’s Key Qualities and Achievements

In the main portion of the letter, highlight the person’s strengths using specific examples. Focus on two or three qualities or achievements that are relevant to the position or opportunity they are applying for.

• Use specific examples: Describe instances where they excelled in particular skills or made valuable contributions.

During [Name’s] time on our team, she led a project that increased our social media engagement by 40%. Her innovative ideas and detailed execution were instrumental in achieving this success.

• Highlight unique qualities: Mention qualities that set this person apart.

What truly sets [Name] apart is her ability to remain calm and solution-oriented in high-pressure situations.

Step 6: Include Positive, Results-Driven Language

Use confident, positive language to show your endorsement. Phrases like “I am confident that …” or “I highly recommend …” communicate strong support.

I am confident that [Name’s] skill set and dedication make her an excellent candidate for this position.

Step 7: Conclude with a Strong Recommendation

In the final paragraph, reiterate your recommendation and invite the reader to contact you for further information.

In summary, I highly recommend [Name] for this opportunity. She would be an asset to any team and is sure to bring her unique blend of skills and dedication to [company/organization/school]. Please feel free to contact me at [your contact information] should you require further insights.

Step 8: Use a Professional Closing

End with a formal closing, followed by your name, position, and contact information.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Contact Information]

Sample Letter of Recommendation

[Date]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to highly recommend [Name] for the [Position/Program] at [Company/Organization/School]. As [Your Position] at [Your Organization], I have had the pleasure of supervising [Name] for [Duration], during which she consistently demonstrated her dedication, initiative, and creative problem-solving skills.

In her role as [Their Position], [Name] has excelled in [mention specific skills or achievements]. For example, she led a team project that resulted in a 40% increase in social media engagement, showcasing her strategic thinking and leadership. Additionally, her unique ability to stay calm and adaptable under pressure sets her apart from her peers.

I am confident that [Name] will bring the same level of excellence and commitment to [Company/Organization/School]. She will be an invaluable asset, and I am delighted to recommend her without reservation. Please feel free to reach me at [Your Contact Information] should you require additional information.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Contact Information]

Tips for Writing a Strong Letter of Recommendation

• Be honest and specific: Avoid vague praise and focus on concrete examples.
• Tailor your letter to the role: Align your examples and descriptions with the requirements of the position or program.
• Be concise: Aim for one page, focusing on relevant qualities and achievements. Our tutorial on concise writing gives you the guidance you need to keep it brief.

A well-crafted recommendation letter can make a significant impact, helping the individual stand out to selection committees, hiring managers, or admissions officers. If you need help drafting or refining a recommendation letter, feel free to get in touch with our expert editors for professional support.