write a letter
Required Materials
Word processing software
Whether you’re thinking about applying to colleges or you’re getting ready to submit your resume for a job, you’re likely at some point to be asked to include a recommendation letter from a teacher, mentor, manager, or family friend. In this activity, we’ll turn the tables—you will be providing a recommendation letter for someone you know.
Step 1: Choose Someone to Recommend
Take a moment to think of someone you have worked with or been in a class with who has helped you.
Step 2: Prepare and Type Your Letter
Using word processing software, begin to type a rough draft of a recommendation letter in a block-style format. Make sure to include all parts of a business letter as described within the unit. Because you’re not really sending it to a potential school or employer, you can make up the recipient’s address and salutation—just be sure to format them correctly! Type at least three paragraphs that will include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Think about the skills and positive attributes of the person you selected and how you would communicate them to someone looking to hire them or admit them to a college.
Step 3: Format, Edit, and Proofread Your Rough Draft
Edit and proofread the rough draft of your letter. Is your letter clear, concise, complete, and correct? Are there adjustments you need to make to the format?
Step 4: Save and Submit
Save and submit your word processing document.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient's Name]
[Recipient's Title]
[Organization/Institution Name]
[Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I am writing to recommend [Name of Person You are Recommending] for [job/college/program]. I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [length of time] and I have been consistently impressed by [his/her] dedication, hard work, and positive attitude.
[Name of Person You are Recommending] is a quick learner who is always eager to tackle new challenges. [He/She] is not afraid to ask questions and seek guidance, which demonstrates [his/her] willingness to learn and grow. [His/Her] organizational skills and attention to detail have been instrumental in [specific example of project or task].
In addition to [his/her] technical skills, [Name of Person You are Recommending] also possesses excellent communication skills. [He/She] is able to effectively collaborate with team members, listen actively, and provide valuable input. [His/Her] ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines has been crucial in [specific example of when these skills were demonstrated].
I am confident that [Name of Person You are Recommending] would be a valuable asset to [job/college/program] and I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her] for [his/her] future endeavors. Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]