Writing an Effective Letter of Recommendation
- Know whether your organization allows you to give references on current or former employees/students.
- Consider declining the request if you are unable to provide enthusiastic endorsement or if you do not know the individual well enough to critique performance.
- If you choose to write a letter, clearly identify the person being recommended and the purpose of the recommendation.
- Identify yourself and indicate in what capacity you know the individual.
- Indicate the length of your association and the candidate’s performance during your association.
- Offer assessment of the person’s skills, abilities, attributes important for success, knowledge and experience.
- Provide a closing statement summarizing your opinion of the person’s potential capabilities. Choose descriptive words carefully as they may carry special weight.
- Letters of reference should be typed on your organization’s letterhead.
