Letter of Reference

If someone asks you to write a letter of recommendation...

Writing a good letter of recommendation can certainly help someone out – and it reflects on you as well. To write a REALLY good recommendation, you’ll need a copy of the job description and of the person’s resume. Vague or generic recommendations don’t help much. You’ll need to compare the person to others you have worked with and then find an example or two of how they stood out. Your letter should be short but specific with a brief summary of how you know them and two or three qualities they have that would suit the position.

If you don’t have time for all that – or can’t honestly recommend the person – don’t do it. Try explaining why you wouldn’t make a good reference and suggest a more appropriate one if you can.