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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