How to Write a Personal Recommendation Letter

Writing a thoughtful letter of recommendation takes time and consideration.

A personal letter of recommendation gives a sense of character to an applicant beyond what exists in other areas of the application. A variety of programs and institutions from college admissions offices to human resource departments require personal letters of recommendation. Understanding the destination of your letter lets you tailor your recommendation to that particular organization's requirements.

Instructions

1. Introduce yourself, your position and identify your relationship to the applicant. These few sentences create a context for the reader. For example, a recommendation letter from the applicant's supervisor or coworker offers a very different perspective than that of a science teacher, minister or sports coach.

2. Describe the applicant's most striking personal characteristics using brief, anecdotal evidence. The old writing adage, "show, don't tell," very much applies here. Choose honest, poignant stories that speak to the strength of applicant's character. For example, perhaps the applicant spent time tutoring a classmate even though it meant devoting less time to his own studying and resulted in a lower grade.

3. Compare the applicant to his peers. Be honest, but strategic and highlight areas where the applicant truly shines. Give concrete examples of how the applicant stood out among his peers. For example, if the applicant demonstrated initiative or above average conflict resolution skills, describe instances where the applicant used these skills.

4. Explain how the applicant's personal strengths would enhance the specific position, school or program. Connecting these strengths to the organization's mission or position shows the reviewer that you understand the nature of the recommendation and why it's important to the applicant.

5. Conclude the letter by thanking the reviewer for considering your letter in the applicant's application. Offer your contact information for any further questions. Sign your signature in the space between "Sincerely" and your typed name:

   Sincerely,

   James Smith, M.Ed.

   AP Calculus Teacher

   Andover Academy

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't feel comfortable writing a personal letter of recommendation, for whatever reason, be honest and tell the applicant. The applicant will appreciate your honesty and the chance to include a more enthusiastic recommendation from another individual.

• Type your letter on the computer. A handwritten letter can be difficult to read. Frustration is not the sentiment you're going for.

• Mail your letter out with plenty of lead time. Some organizations have lengthy sorting processes, which means your letter could take weeks before finally reaching the right person.

References

• Chicago Job Resource: Writing a Recommendation Letter
• Modern Language Association: Writing Letters of Recommendation for Academic Jobs
• Pepperdine University: Admissions Information