What is the difference between a letter of recommendation and a reference letter?
A letter of recommendation differs from a reference letter in that it focuses more on specific abilities and skills, whereas a reference letter is an endorsement of a candidate's character and personality.
Letters of recommendation are most commonly used in the hiring process as part of the employment verification step where they are called an employment reference or job reference.
Letter of Recommendation Template
Download this free letter of recommendation template in MS Word format, and make it your own.
Download LetterThree Letter of Recommendation Templates:
1. Basic letter of recommendation sample.
[Today’s Date]
Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms./To Whom it May Concern],
I am writing to recommend [full name of the person you’re recommending] for [what you’re recommending them for].
I have known [person you’re recommending] since [date] as [capacity in which you’ve known the person, i.e., “good friend,” “coworker,” etc.].
I have always known [person you’re recommending] to be [qualities the person has, such as “honest,” “loyal,” “hardworking”].
Based on our experience together, I can confidently recommend [person you’re recommending] for [what you’re recommending them for].
Sincerely,
[Your Name + Signature]
Keep your letter of recommendation brief and to the point. The last thing anyone wants is a multi-page letter. The hiring manager or person receiving the letter will want to know who you are, how you know the applicant, and why you are recommending them.
2. Personal or character letter of recommendation.
[Today’s Date]
Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms./To Whom it May Concern],
I am writing to recommend [full name of person you’re recommending] for [what you’re recommending them for].
I have known [person you’re recommending] for [number of months or years] as a [friend, coach, neighbor, etc.].
From my experience, [person you’re recommending] is [qualities the person has, such as “honest,” “kind,” "easy to work with,” etc.].
One example of [his/her/their] character is when [he/she/they] was/were [something specific he/she/they did that showed character].
Based on our experience together, I can confidently recommend [person you’re recommending] for [what you’re recommending the person for].
Sincerely,
[Your Name + Signature]
3. Academic letter of recommendation.
[Today’s Date]
Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms./To Whom it May Concern],
I am writing to recommend [full name of student you’re recommending] for [what you’re recommending them for].
I have known [Person you’re recommending] for [number of semesters, months or years]. [He/She/They] has been a student in my [list classes of your student has taken] classes. We’ve also worked on [any other projects you’ve worked on together].
I have always known [person you’re recommending] to be [qualities the student has, such as “a dedicated student,” “hardworking”].
I was especially impressed with [his/her/their] work on [specific task or project performed] where [he/she/they] was/were able to [something specific he/she/they accomplished].
Based on our experience together, I can confidently recommend [student you’re recommending] for [what you’re recommending the student for].
Sincerely,
[Your Name + Signature]
Letter of Recommendation Template - PDF
Use this PDF template to create your own letter of recommendation.
Download NowHow to Write a Letter of Recommendation:
Four steps you need to take to write a professional letter of recommendation.
Address the letter.
Address the letter to the employer or hiring manager.
Research the employer and address your letter of recommendation directly to the hiring manager or contact person. Make sure that you add their full name or "Mr." or "Ms.," followed by their last name.
Write an introduction.
Briefly discuss the purpose of the letter.
State the nature of the letter, the name of the applicant you're recommending, and what available position you're referring to. While you do want your introduction to sound compelling, keep the paragraph concise to ensure a smooth screening process.
Write about the applicant you're recommending.
Highlight their best attributes and how they suit the position.
Personalize the letter by highlighting why you're the best person to vouch for the applicant you're recommending. Include how long you've known them, how or where you met, and why you think they're perfect for the available position.
For the best results, showcase your knowledge of the applicant's greatest qualities, achievements, and skills.
Include an example of when the applicant you're recommending showed excellent intuition and leadership qualities, as well as great character and work ethic.
Conclude your letter of recommendation.
End your letter with an affirmation that you stand by your recommendation.
In the final paragraph, reaffirm why you're vouching for the applicant by highlighting the reason for your recommendation. Add their full name and the position you're recommending them for. Conclude the letter by adding a sign-off, your full name, job title, and signature.
How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation