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How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

People may need letters of recommendation in a variety of situations, such as applying for admission to school, applying for a job or even trying to rent an apartment. Are you writing a letter of recommendation for someone? Here's what to include in and leave out of an effective letter.

Overview of Letter of Recommendation

A professional or personal acquaintance may ask you for this type of letter. The document outlines the nature of your relationship with the person in question and why you recommend the person for the job or other need. A letter of recommendation needs to include specific information, and sometimes the person requesting the letter may ask you to mention something specific, such as an attribute or a situation that illustrates why he or she is a good candidate. Letters of recommendation need to be detailed and personal.

Points to Include

An effective letter of recommendation can include a short opening paragraph that describes your relationship to the person you're recommending. Next, segue into a brief overview of the person's skills or accomplishments as they pertain to the purpose for the letter. For example, if you're writing to a prospective employer, mention specific qualifications that make the person an ideal prospect for the job. Include examples of these qualifications if possible by explaining a situation in which your acquaintance demonstrated them. Finish the letter with a brief summary that outlines why you're making the recommendation.

What Not to Say

Sending a weak or even damaging letter of recommendation is definitely not something you want to do. Avoid writing anything that sounds less than enthusiastic. Don't provide mere generalities about the person, and try not to sound impersonal with just an overview of facts. Making your recommendation letter another version of the person's resume can potentially create an impersonal letter. Make sure you flesh out your letter so it's engaging, full of insight and more than a paragraph or two long.

Letter of Recommendation Sample

If you're not sure how to write a letter of recommendation, you might peruse sample letters available on the internet. These letters include the basics to cover so you can use them as guides as you create your own letter. You might also use a template for the letter of recommendation. After downloading a template, you can simply add your personal information and details to make it yours.

Ideas for Other Types of Letters

Writing letters may seem outdated, but there are many situations that demand written communication. You may need to write a letter of request, letter of complaint, letter of gratitude and thanks or a letter of concern. Looking at sample letters can make the letter-writing process easier. Letters of encouragement can be a meaningful way of reaching out to professional or personal acquaintances. And, a letter of congratulations might be in order if the acquaintance for whom you wrote the letter of recommendation finds success in their endeavor.