Former employees or students often request letters of recommendation (LORs) or employee reference letters to showcase their skills and accomplishments to potential employers or educational institutions. It provides an opportunity for you, as a former employer, to express your appreciation for their contributions and wishes for their future success. Creating a strong LOR depends on several factors: –
Understanding the Purpose
Know the specific role the LOR will play for the employee. It is suggested to know whether it is for a job application, internship, or graduate program. Recognizing the purpose allows one to tailor the content to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Gathering Background Information
Gather details from employees requesting LORs. It will aid in personalizing the LOR for them. This may include the specific job description, any program they are applying for, or any qualities or achievements they would like highlighted.
Structuring and Personalizing LORs
While templates for a letter of recommendation are helpful at first, an impactful LOR should be personalized by the following:
- Highlight relevant strengths: Look for the recipient’s skills and qualities that align with their purpose of requesting the LOR; if it’s for a new leadership role, technical expertise, or problem-solving abilities. It is better to provide suitable examples of how the employee demonstrated these skills.
- Showcase achievements: Mention the employee’s accomplishments wherever possible. Don’t just list their duties and responsibilities. Did they exceed their targets consistently? Helped improve team efficiency? Mentioning these will add credibility to the LOR.
- Closing content: Conclude the letter of recommendation by giving a strong endorsement for the employee. Express your belief in their potential for success ahead.
If one looks at any sample for a recommendation letter, one will find a certain structure. It helps eliminate redundancy or promotional tone, which can negatively impact the recipient’s purpose. A well-written LOR can significantly assist an individual in their job search or academic pursuits. By following these tips and adding a personal touch, one can contribute to their success and maintain a positive professional relationship.