Writing A Letter Of Recommendation

This is the time of year when many students are in need of letters of recommendation. This is a great opportunity to be able to put into words how much you have enjoyed working with a student leader. It's especially nice to be able to play a small role in assisting them in another endeavor.

Students need letters of recommendation when they are applying for jobs, internships, study-abroad programs, scholarships, etc. Your words may play a bigger role than you think in their acceptance or denial.

If you are pressed to find something positive about a student when writing a letter of recommendation, there are a few options to consider:

1. Tell them you are unable to write a letter for them.
This may give you an opportunity to share some of the reasons why you aren't able to recommend them to someone else. But share these reasons in a kind and tactful way.

I would also add that I usually won't write a letter of recommendation for someone if I know that it will be more negative than positive (I'm willing to share weaknesses, but only in balance with sharing strengths). I will tell the student why I'm not going to write a letter for them.

2. Share quotes from other people who offer positive words about the student.
Find one or two of their peers who can give specific examples of work that was well done.

3. Keep a file of recommendation letters that you write.
I will often refer back to letters of recommendation that I've previously written to refresh my memory and borrow phrases that will provide a stronger reference.

The following is a letter from my files which you may find a useful phrase or two when writing a recommendation letter for someone (I use the name Jill as a fictitious example):

To Whom It May Concern:

I would like to wholeheartedly recommend Jill to you.

It has been my privilege to work with Jill over the last few years in an advisory role in our organization.  Jill has displayed tremendous leadership ability and has a keen understanding for the organization and communication skills necessary to be successful.

I have watched Jill overcome obstacles in the leadership roles that she has occupied.  She was always quick to approach me when a situation seemed a bit over her head.  What I appreciated most about these times was that she had already thought through many options and was looking for perspective rather than wanting someone to bail her out.

Jill is a fun-loving person who has a wide variety of friendships.  She loves to laugh and see the positive side of situations and people.  I know that those who worked with and for Jill had a high level of respect for her and the character she displayed throughout her time here at our organization.

I would have no hesitation in working with Jill in a peer situation or hiring her for a position here at our organization.  I believe she is one of the highest caliber of student here.

Respectfully submitted,

What experience do you have in writing a letter of recommendation for someone? How do you approach a situation when someone asks you to recommend them and you'd rather not?

Are you considering approaching someone to ask them to write a letter of recommendation for you? Take a look at what is written over at Success Files: How To Ask For A Letter Of Recommendation.