Last Updated June 27, 2023
What is a Letter of Recommendation?
A Letter of Recommendation is a short letter written by someone you know who can speak positively of your character, accomplishments, and skills.
You use Letters of Recommendation when applying to or as part of the following:
Landlords or property managers might also ask for a Letter of Recommendation when a new tenant is applying for a rental suite.
In the UK, most undergraduate programs require one Letter of Recommendation, while post-graduate programs typically need at least two.
You can edit our Letter of Recommendation template to best suit your needs.
A Letter of Recommendation is also known as a:
- Recommendation letter
- Personal reference
- Reference letter
- Reference
Who can write a reference letter?
A few examples of those who can write a reference letter are:
- Current or former managers
- Professors or teachers
- High-ranking military personnel
- Mentors or coaches
- Colleagues
- Clients
Family and friends are typically too biased to act as a reference in a Letter of Recommendation.
How do I write a reference letter?
Reference letters just need to cover a few key points to be effective. In your Letter of Recommendation, make sure to include the following:
- Yours and the applicant’s contact information: First and last name, company or organisation address, phone number, and email address.
- A summary of your relationship with the applicant: When and where you met, how long you’ve known the applicant, etc.
- Examples of the applicant’s strongest skills or traits: Character, loyalty, punctuality, etc.
- Concrete examples of the applicant’s most vital skills: Use examples relevant to their application (e.g., challenges they overcame, projects they accomplished, or tasks they managed).
- A friendly closing statement: Thank the reader for their time and consideration of the applicant. Ask that they reach out to you if they have any further questions.
Applicants may submit a Letter of Recommendation in addition to their Cover Letter and Reference List.
Although an application may not require reference letters, they can play a vital role in helping the applicant stand out.
How do I ask for a Letter of Recommendation?
Follow these helpful steps to ask for a potential reference for a Letter of Recommendation:
1. Ask if they can write a Letter of Recommendation for you
They will likely be happy that you asked, but they also may be unable to write one for you now. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for a reference; the more time you give them, the more likely they’ll say yes.
2. Tell your reference what you’re applying to
Don’t leave out any details. If it’s for a job, supply the company name and title you are applying for. If it’s for a rental suite, give your reference to either the landlord or the rental company.
3. Provide them with some key points to discuss in their letter
Tell them about why you’re the appropriate choice. You have the skills, so don’t be afraid to mention them to your reference.
4. Thank your references and keep them updated on the application
They gladly vouched for you, so you should continue to keep them in the know.
