Writing a coworker letter of recommendation can be a daunting task, but it’s also a great opportunity to help someone advance their career. In this article, we’ll provide tips, examples, and frequently asked questions to help you write an effective letter that can make a difference in someone’s professional life.
Tips for Writing a Coworker Letter of Recommendation
If you’re asked to write a coworker letter of recommendation, keep these tips in mind:
1. Start with a Strong Title
Your title should clearly indicate your relationship with the employee and the purpose of the letter. For example, “Letter of Recommendation for Jane Doe: Outstanding Marketing Manager.”
2. Be Specific
Avoid general statements and provide specific examples of the employee’s skills and accomplishments.
3. Use Action Words
Use strong action words to describe the employee’s achievements and qualities. For example, “led,” “initiated,” “innovative,” “creative,” and “organized.”
4. Keep it Professional
Avoid personal anecdotes and keep the tone professional. Focus on the employee’s work-related qualities and skills.
5. Edit and Proofread
Make sure to edit and proofread your letter carefully. Typos and errors can detract from the employee’s qualifications.
Examples of Coworker Letters of Recommendation
Letter of Recommendation for John Smith: Exceptional Sales Manager
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for John Smith, who has been an exceptional sales manager during his tenure at our company. John is a skilled communicator and has a natural talent for building strong relationships with clients.
John consistently exceeded his sales targets and was instrumental in developing new business opportunities for our company. His ability to collaborate with team members and clients made him an invaluable asset to our team.
I highly recommend John for any sales management position. He is a hardworking, dedicated, and results-driven professional.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a coworker letter of recommendation?
Your letter should include specific examples of the employee’s skills and accomplishments, action words, and a professional tone. Avoid personal anecdotes and focus on work-related qualities and skills.
How long should a coworker letter of recommendation be?
A coworker letter of recommendation should be one to two pages long, with specific examples and a professional tone.
Can I decline to write a coworker letter of recommendation?
If you don’t feel comfortable writing a coworker letter of recommendation, it’s best to decline. It’s important to be honest and transparent with the employee and explain your reasons for declining.
What if I don’t have direct experience working with the employee?
If you don’t have direct experience working with the employee, it’s best to decline to write the letter. A letter from someone who doesn’t know the employee well won’t be effective.
Do I need to use specific formatting for a coworker letter of recommendation?
There is no specific formatting required for a coworker letter of recommendation. However, it should be professional in tone and formatted in a clear and easy-to-read way.
Can the employee edit the letter of recommendation?
Yes, the employee can edit the letter of recommendation as needed. However, it’s important to ensure that the final version accurately represents the employee’s skills and accomplishments.
Conclusion
Writing a coworker letter of recommendation can be a valuable opportunity to help a colleague advance their career. By following these tips, using the examples provided, and being transparent and honest with the employee, you can write a letter that is effective, professional, and makes a difference.