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What should I write in a letter of recommendation for someone else?

Home » Careers » Letters of Recommendation » What should I write in a letter of recommendation for someone else?
Posted by Your Guide on October 12, 2005 5:39 PM

The longer you are in a position and the more people you work with, the more often you will be asked to write a letter of recommendation for a co-worker or subordinate. The first step is to check with your company to make sure there are no limitations on what you can say in a letter of recommendation, but given no restrictions, you may want to discuss some of the following:


  • Your credentials and relationship with the applicant: Establish that you are qualified to give a recommendation on behalf of the applicant. You can do this by outlining your position, responsibilities, and experience in your current role. Then move on to discuss the length of time you worked with the applicant and the extent to which you observed and worked with him/her.
  • The applicant’s work skills: What positive qualities did the applicant bring to work? Were there certain projects that he/she accomplished? Write about the best aspects of the applicant’s work. It may be helpful to keep in mind the characteristics you would look for in a job applicant.
  • The applicant’s character: Does the applicant have integrity? Is he/she dedicated, punctual, and hardworking? How does he/she work with the rest of a team?
  • A recommendation: This is the meat of your letter. Emphasize that the employer would be well-served to hire the applicant, and outline the reasons why. Use your strongest language here to recommend that the employer hire the applicant.

In an ideal case, you would have nothing but good things to say about an applicant, but often, you cannot in good conscience ignore certain faults regarding the applicant’s character or work performance. Don’t dwell on these faults, but be honest about them. If it is appropriate, mention that you believe the applicant would do better in these areas in the future, and, as with every part of your letter of recommendation, offer to discuss these issues further if needed.



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