How to Write an Effective Recommendation Letters

How to Write an Effective Recommendation Letters
  • By: ScholarsBiz Editorial Team
  • January 14, 2025

Blog Content

Structure of a General Recommendation Letter:

Heading (if formal)

  • Your Name
  • Your Title
  • Your Organization/Institution
  • Your Contact Information
  • Date

Salutation

  • If you know the recipient’s name:
    • Dear [Recipient's Name],
  • If you don’t know the recipient’s name:
    • To Whom It May Concern,

Introduction

  • Introduce yourself and state your relationship with the person you are recommending.
  • Mention how long you have known the individual and in what capacity (e.g., supervisor, teacher, mentor).
  • State the purpose of the recommendation letter.

Body Paragraph(s)

Skills and Qualities:
Discuss the individual's skills, work ethic, achievements, and personal qualities that make them a strong candidate for the opportunity they are seeking.

  • Mention specific qualities such as leadership, dedication, teamwork, creativity, academic achievements, etc.
  • Provide examples of the individual’s accomplishments or actions that demonstrate these qualities.

Fit for the Opportunity:
Explain why the person is a good fit for the role, school, or program they are applying for. Highlight how their skills align with the specific requirements.

Example:
I am confident that [Candidate's Name] will excel in [the position/academic program] because of [his/her/their] proven ability to [specific skill or attribute relevant to the opportunity].

Conclusion

  • Summarize your endorsement and reaffirm your confidence in the individual’s abilities.
  • Offer to provide additional information if necessary.

Closing

  • Use a formal closing phrase such as:
    • Sincerely,
    • Best regards,
    • Yours faithfully,

Signature

  • Sign the letter (if it's a printed copy)
  • Your Name
  • Your Position/Title
  • Your Contact Information

Sample General Recommendation Letter

[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

I am pleased to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for [position, program, or opportunity]. I have had the privilege of working with [Candidate’s Name] for [X years/months] as [his/her/their] [supervisor, professor, mentor, etc.] at [Organization/Institution]. During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] exceptional skills and dedication.

[Candidate’s Name] is a highly motivated individual with remarkable [skills/qualities]. For instance, [he/she/they] demonstrated outstanding [example of specific skills] during [specific task or project]. [His/Her/Their] ability to [describe skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, leadership] is one of the key reasons I believe [he/she/they] will excel in [position/program].

Moreover, [Candidate’s Name] is a natural leader who works well with others and is always willing to go above and beyond to achieve results. [He/She/They] consistently take the initiative and is quick to adapt to new challenges, making [him/her/them] a valuable asset to any team.

In conclusion, I strongly recommend [Candidate’s Name] for [position/program]. I am confident that [he/she/they] will contribute positively and excel in whatever path [he/she/they] choose. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information] if you need any further information.

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

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