When it comes to applying for a new job or seeking admission to a higher education program, a well-written recommendation letter can make a significant impact on your chances of success. A general recommendation letter is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of situations to showcase your skills, qualifications, and character to potential employers or admissions committees. In this article, we will provide you with a sample of a general recommendation letter that you can customize to suit your specific needs.
The Best Structure for a General Recommendation Letter Sample
When writing a general recommendation letter, it’s important to follow a structured format to ensure that all key information is included and that the letter is easy to read and understand. Here is a simple and effective structure to follow:
- Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship to the person you are recommending. Include how long you have known them and in what capacity.
- Paragraph 1: Highlight the person’s strengths, skills, and positive qualities. Provide examples of their work ethic, professionalism, and any achievements or accomplishments.
- Paragraph 2: Discuss specific experiences or projects you have worked on together that showcase the person’s abilities. Provide concrete examples of how they excelled in their role.
- Paragraph 3: Share your overall impression of the person and why you believe they would be a valuable asset to the recipient of the letter. Mention any standout qualities or characteristics that make them stand out.
- Closing: End the letter by restating your recommendation and offering to provide further information if needed. Include your contact information for any follow-up questions.
Remember to keep the letter concise and to the point, while still providing enough detail to support your recommendation. Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points and make sure to proofread the letter for any errors before sending it out.
| Sample Structure: | Example Content: |
|---|---|
| Introduction | “I am writing to recommend Jane Doe, who I have had the pleasure of working with as her supervisor for the past three years.” |
| Paragraph 1 | “Jane is a dedicated and hardworking employee who consistently goes above and beyond in her responsibilities.” |
| Paragraph 2 | “One project that stands out is when Jane spearheaded a marketing campaign that resulted in a 20% increase in sales.” |
| Paragraph 3 | “Overall, I believe Jane would be a valuable addition to your team due to her strong work ethic, creativity, and determination.” |
| Closing | “I highly recommend Jane for any position she may apply for and am confident she will excel in any role she is given. Please feel free to contact me for any additional information.” |
General Recommendation Letter Samples
Recommendation for Graduate School Application
I am pleased to recommend [Name] for graduate school as they have shown exceptional intelligence, dedication, and determination in their academic pursuits. Their passion for learning and drive to succeed make them an ideal candidate for further education.
Recommendation for Job Promotion
[Name] has consistently demonstrated strong leadership skills, exceptional work ethic, and a positive attitude in their current role. I am confident that they are ready for the challenges and responsibilities of a higher position within the company.
Recommendation for Volunteer Work
It is my pleasure to recommend [Name] for volunteer work as they have a genuine desire to help others and make a positive impact in the community. Their dedication, compassion, and willingness to go above and beyond make them a valuable asset to any organization.
Recommendation for Scholarship Application
I have had the pleasure of getting to know [Name] through their academic achievements, leadership abilities, and involvement in extracurricular activities. Their passion for learning and determination to succeed make them a deserving candidate for a scholarship.
Recommendation for Professional Development Program
[Name] has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to their personal and professional growth. Their drive to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and improve themselves make them an excellent candidate for a professional development program.
Recommendation for Leadership Training
Having worked closely with [Name], I have witnessed their exceptional leadership skills, ability to motivate others, and strategic thinking. I believe they would greatly benefit from leadership training to further enhance their capabilities and effectiveness in a leadership role.
Recommendation for Mentorship Program
I wholeheartedly recommend [Name] for a mentorship program as they have demonstrated a strong desire to learn from others, seek guidance, and grow both personally and professionally. Their open-mindedness, willingness to listen, and eagerness to improve make them an ideal mentee.
How can I effectively structure a general recommendation letter?
When crafting a general recommendation letter, it’s important to start with a strong introduction that clearly states your relationship with the individual you are recommending and the purpose of the letter. In the body of the letter, provide specific examples of the individual’s skills, accomplishments, and work ethic. Use concrete details and quantifiable results whenever possible to make your letter more impactful. Additionally, be sure to include a closing paragraph that reiterates your recommendation and offers to provide further information if needed. Finally, end the letter with a professional closing and your contact information.
What are the key elements to include in a general recommendation letter?
Some key elements to include in a general recommendation letter are the date, your contact information, the recipient’s contact information, a professional greeting, an introduction that explains your relationship with the individual you are recommending, specific examples of the individual’s qualifications and achievements, and a closing that restates your recommendation and offers further assistance. It’s also important to maintain a professional tone throughout the letter and to proofread it for any errors before sending.
How long should a general recommendation letter be?
A general recommendation letter should typically be one page in length, with a maximum of two pages if absolutely necessary. It’s important to be concise and to the point, focusing on the most relevant information that showcases the individual’s qualifications and strengths. Avoid including unnecessary details or filler content that does not add value to the letter. Keep in mind that the recipient of the letter likely has many other documents to review, so making your letter clear and succinct will be beneficial.
What is the best way to format a general recommendation letter?
When formatting a general recommendation letter, it’s best to use a professional and clean layout. Start with your contact information at the top of the page, followed by the date and then the recipient’s contact information. Begin the letter with a professional greeting and introduction, making sure to clearly state your purpose for writing. Use clear headings for each section of the letter to make it easy to read and follow. Finally, close the letter with a professional sign-off and your printed name underneath. It’s also a good idea to use a consistent font style and size throughout the letter for a polished appearance.
Hope this general recommendation letter sample has been helpful in guiding you through the process of writing your own personalized letter for a friend or colleague. Remember to personalize it according to the individual’s achievements and qualities. Thank you for reading and feel free to visit again later for more tips and advice on writing recommendation letters. Happy writing!