How to Write a Stellar Personal Recommendation Letter
Are you tasked with writing a personal recommendation letter but unsure where to start or how to make it stand out? Look no further, as this article is here to guide you through the process of writing a stellar personal recommendation letter.
Introduction
Personal recommendation letters are an essential part of the job application process, as they provide insight into an applicant’s character, work habits, and overall potential. However, writing a recommendation letter can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right words and highlighting the applicant’s strengths without exaggerating their abilities.
Understanding the Purpose of a Personal Recommendation Letter
To write an effective personal recommendation letter, it’s crucial to understand its purpose. The primary reason for a recommendation letter is to provide an assessment of an applicant’s skills, abilities, and character, from the perspective of someone who knows them in a professional or academic capacity. Keep this in mind and try to focus on the skills and qualities that align with the applicant’s desired position.
Highlighting the Applicant’s Strengths
When writing a personal recommendation letter, be sure to highlight the applicant’s strengths. This includes both hard skills (such as technical skills or experience with specific software) and soft skills (such as teamwork or communication skills). Avoid generalizations, and instead, provide specific examples of how the applicant excelled in their role and how their skills benefited the organization or team.
Provide Evidence and Examples
It’s not enough to simply list the applicant’s strengths and qualities. To make the recommendation letter more impactful, provide evidence and specific examples to back up your claims. This could be anything from describing a time when the applicant went above and beyond in their duties, to highlighting a specific project they spearheaded successfully.
Avoid Exaggerations and Clichés
Exaggerations and clichés can often weaken the credibility of a recommendation letter. It’s essential to resist the urge to use hyperbolic language or make claims that you cannot back up with evidence. Stick to the facts and keep the tone professional throughout the letter. Avoid using phrases such as ‘one of the best’ as it is incomparable.
Structure and Formatting
When writing a personal recommendation letter, it’s essential to follow a clear and organized structure. Consider using subheadings to break up the content and make it easily readable. Similarly, use bullet points and short paragraphs for easy understanding and convenience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, writing a stellar personal recommendation letter isn’t rocket science. With the right approach and attention to detail, you can make the process smooth and straightforward. Remember to focus on the applicant’s strengths, provide evidence and examples, avoid clichés, and keep the tone professional to create an engaging personal recommendation letter that will make the applicant stand out.
