Recommendation Letter Template
Professional recommendation letter template for employers, teachers, and mentors writing strong references for employment and academic opportunities.
A Recommendation Letter Template is a professional document written by supervisors, teachers, mentors, or colleagues to endorse a person's qualifications and strengths for employment, academic programs, scholarships, or professional opportunities. Strong recommendation letters provide concrete examples of the candidate's abilities and achievements.
When To Use
Use this template when writing references for job applications, academic programs, scholarships, grant opportunities, or professional development programs.
Template
Example
To Whom It May Concern, I am pleased to recommend Sarah Lee for your graduate program in Business Administration. I have had the privilege of supervising Sarah for the past 3 years in my capacity as Operations Director at Summit Logistics. During this time, Sarah has demonstrated outstanding leadership and analytical abilities. Specifically, she spearheaded a process improvement initiative that reduced operational costs by 18% while improving efficiency metrics. Additionally, she shows exceptional communication skills, successfully coordinating across departments and mentoring junior team members. Sarah is highly motivated, detail-oriented, and strategic in her thinking. I believe she would be an excellent fit for your MBA program. I give my strongest recommendation. Sincerely, Karen Lee Operations Director Summit Logistics (555) 111-2222 karen.lee@summitlogistics.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should write recommendation letters?
Managers, supervisors, teachers, professors, mentors, or colleagues who know the candidate's work closely and can provide credible endorsement.
What should be included in a recommendation letter?
Include the candidate's name, your relationship, specific examples of strengths and accomplishments, how their qualities align with the opportunity, and your strong endorsement.
Should I include negative information in a recommendation letter?
Generally, no. If asked about significant weaknesses, mention something the person has overcome or improved. Focus on the positive overall.
Can recommendation letters be requested after leaving a job?
Yes, former employers can still provide references if they agree. However, recommendations from current/recent supervisors are typically stronger.
How long should a recommendation letter be?
One page is standard. Include enough detail and examples to be credible and compelling, but remain concise and focused.
Should I send the letter directly or to the candidate?
Follow the opportunity's instructions. Some request direct submission to them; others have the candidate deliver it. Never seal letters if they're given to the candidate.
Can I use a template for multiple recommendations?
Yes, use a template as a starting point, but customize each letter with specific examples and achievements relevant to that candidate and opportunity.
What if I'm asked to write a recommendation for someone I don't know well?
Politely decline. Strong recommendations require genuine knowledge of the person's work and qualifications. A weak recommendation hurts everyone.
Related Templates
Recommendation Letter Template for Employees
Professional employee recommendation letter template for managers and supervisors writing strong references for employees applying to jobs and career opportunities.
Recommendation Letter Template for Teachers
Professional teacher recommendation letter template for principals, administrators, and colleagues writing strong academic and professional references for teachers.
Academic Recommendation Letter Template
Academic recommendation letter template for teachers, professors, and mentors writing student references for college, scholarship, and academic program applications.
Cover Letter Template
Professional cover letter template for job applications. Customizable format for introducing yourself to employers and highlighting key qualifications.
Cover Letter Template for Software Developers
Professional tech job cover letter template for software engineers, developers, and programmers applying for technology roles.