Have you recently been asked to write a reference letter for a friend, colleague, or former employer? Not quite sure where to start?
In the following article, we will provide you with expert advice on how to successfully compose a professional letter of job recommendation. If you are in need of further assistance, reach out to your local labour job agency.
Tips for Composing a Professional Recommendation Letter
One of the best ways to get started is to look at the letter of recommendation examples and templates online. This will give you a general idea of how to get started. As well, you should consider the following advice.
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Write a Separate Recommendation Letter for Each Position
In some cases, you might be asked to write more than one reference letter for the prospective employee in question. In this event, it is ideal to write a new letter for each position or company.
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Review the Candidate’s Resume
It’s always a good idea to ask for a copy of the candidate’s resume to get a general idea of their qualifications, skills, and experience. Once you have some insight into the individual’s background, you will be able to write a more detailed letter of recommendation. This can assist you in addressing and highlighting their specific strengths as well as their career goals.
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Be Sure to Get the Specifics Required for Submission
It is of utmost importance that you acquire all the details for submission for the reference letter. This includes the deadline for submission as well as the specifics such as how it should be sent (ie: email, fax, PDF, snail mail). In some cases, you may be required to hand off a printed copy of the letter directly to the potential employee as they may be required to submit it as part of their application, a second interview, or their orientation.
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Get Some Background About the Position and Company
You should get some general information about the position for which the person is applying. That way you can tailor the letter to the specific job in question. Additionally, it couldn’t hurt to do some research on the company to have a better understanding of the potential job.
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Make a List of the Candidate’s Qualities, Qualifications, and so Forth
Once you have all the required details in place, you should make a list of the employee’s qualifications, skills, and other necessary information. This will help you choose which of the aforementioned are most marketable as it pertains to the job in question. Be sure to highlight those for which you can personally vouch.
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Include Your Contact Details
Don’t forget to provide your contact information including your email, telephone number, full name, and job title. In some cases, the potential employer may want to contact you with follow-up questions on the candidate in question.
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Maintain a Consistently Positive Tone
You were recruited to write the reference letter by the candidate because they view you as someone they both trust and respect. For this reason, you must keep the tone of the letter positive from start to finish.
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Focus On Their Strengths
When you compose the letter, be sure to focus on the job candidate’s strengths. Decide one or two qualities to which you can personally attest. Be sure to state your relationship with the candidate and for how long you have known them. Discuss why you feel that would be an asset to the position and the company.
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Proofread the Reference Letter Before Submitting It
Be sure to thoroughly proofread the letter for any typos or other errors before submitting it. Ask someone else to proofread the letter as well just to be safe.
Contact the expert staff at Team Global / MSM if you need further advice on how to write an employment recommendation letter. We are here to assist you every step of the way on your path to furthering your career or finding your ideal job.