A recommendation letter is a document that is written by someone who knows you well, such as a teacher, employer, or mentor, to vouch for your character, skills, and abilities. They are often required for college applications, job applications, and other important opportunities.
Steps to Write a Draft Recommendation Letter
Here are the steps on how to write a draft recommendation letter:
1. Gather Information
Before you start writing, you should gather information about the person you are writing the letter for. This information will help you write a strong and convincing letter. Ask the person for the following information:
- Their resume or CV: This will give you an idea of their skills, experience, and goals.
- The specific opportunity they are applying for: This will help you tailor your letter to the specific requirements of the opportunity.
- Any specific aspects of their character or abilities that they want you to highlight: This will help you focus your letter and make it more impactful.
- The deadline for the letter: This will help you ensure that you meet the deadline.
2. Start with a Strong Introduction
The introduction of your recommendation letter should be brief and to the point. It should include the following:
- Your name and title: This will help the reader know who you are and what your relationship is to the person you are recommending.
- Your relationship to the person you are recommending: This could be your role as their teacher, employer, mentor, or coach.
- The purpose of the letter: This should state that you are writing to recommend the person for the specific opportunity.
- How long you have known the person: This will help the reader understand the depth of your knowledge of the person.
3. Highlight the Person's Strengths
The body of your recommendation letter should focus on the person's strengths and qualifications. Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate their abilities and achievements. You can highlight the person's:
- Skills and abilities: This could include their academic performance, work experience, leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, or communication skills.
- Character traits: This could include their work ethic, dedication, perseverance, creativity, or teamwork skills.
- Achievements: This could include any awards, scholarships, honors, or notable accomplishments they have achieved.
4. Emphasize the Person's Fit for the Opportunity
In the body of the letter, you should also emphasize the person's fit for the specific opportunity they are applying for. Connect the person's skills, experience, and character traits to the requirements of the opportunity. Explain how their strengths will contribute to the success of the organization or program.
5. Provide a Conclusion
The conclusion of your recommendation letter should reiterate your strong support for the person and your belief in their ability to succeed. You can also include a call to action, such as encouraging the reader to contact you for further information.
6. Proofread and Edit
Before you send your recommendation letter, make sure to proofread and edit it carefully. Check for any errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. You should also make sure that your letter is well-written and easy to understand.
Tips for Writing a Strong Recommendation Letter
- Be honest and sincere: Don't exaggerate the person's qualifications or abilities. Focus on their true strengths and avoid making claims that you cannot support.
- Be specific and detailed: Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate the person's skills and character. Don't rely on general statements or clichés.
- Be positive and enthusiastic: Your letter should be a strong endorsement of the person. Show your enthusiasm for their potential and your belief in their ability to succeed.
- Proofread and edit carefully: Make sure your letter is free of errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. A well-written and professional letter will make a positive impression on the reader.
Conclusion
Writing a strong recommendation letter can be a rewarding experience. By following these steps and tips, you can write a letter that effectively highlights the person's qualifications and increases their chances of success. Remember to be sincere, specific, and positive, and you will make a valuable contribution to their journey.