If you’ve ever been asked to provide a reference letter or recommendation letter, you know how confusing it can be to understand the difference. In this article, we’ll explain the key differences between these two types of letters and provide examples to help you understand how to write them. These examples can be edited as needed to fit your specific situation.
Tips for Writing Reference Letters and Recommendation Letters
Before we dive into the examples, let’s review some tips for writing reference letters and recommendation letters.
1. Start with a clear purpose
When writing either type of letter, be sure to clearly state the purpose at the beginning. This helps the reader understand the context and what information is needed.
2. Use specific examples
When writing a reference or recommendation letter, provide specific examples of the person’s skills or attributes. This helps the reader understand why the person is being recommended.
3. Be honest
It’s important to be honest when writing a reference or recommendation letter. If you don’t feel comfortable providing a positive recommendation, it’s better to decline the request.
4. Keep it professional
Whether you’re writing a reference or recommendation letter, it’s important to keep it professional. Avoid using slang or casual language, and stick to a formal tone.
5. Follow the appropriate format
Both reference and recommendation letters have a specific format that should be followed. Make sure you understand the requirements before you start writing.
Example Letters
Job Reference Request
Greeting:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Letter Body:
I am writing to request a job reference for my upcoming job search. I have greatly enjoyed working at [Company Name] under your leadership and feel that a reference from you would greatly benefit my job search. Specifically, I am looking for a reference that speaks to my work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work well under pressure.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Complimentary Close:
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Graduate School Recommendation
Greeting:
Dear Admissions Committee,
Letter Body:
I am writing to recommend [Student Name] for admission to [Graduate Program Name]. As [his/her] professor in [Course Name], I can attest to [his/her] exceptional academic performance and dedication to the subject matter. Specifically, [he/she] demonstrated [specific skill or attribute, such as critical thinking or leadership] throughout the course.
I have no doubt that [Student Name] will excel in [Graduate Program Name] and contribute positively to the academic community.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference for Court Case
Greeting:
Dear Judge [Last Name],
Letter Body:
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant Name]. I have known [him/her] for [length of time] and can attest to [his/her] good character and moral standing. Specifically, [he/she] has demonstrated [specific examples of good character, such as honesty or generosity] throughout our relationship.
I believe [Defendant Name] is a valuable member of the community who deserves a fair trial.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Employment Recommendation
Greeting:
Dear Hiring Manager,
Letter Body:
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for employment at your organization. During [his/her] time at [Company Name], [he/she] demonstrated exceptional [specific skill or attribute, such as teamwork or initiative]. Specifically, [he/she] [specific example of achievement or success].
I have no doubt that [Employee Name] would make a valuable addition to your team.
Complimentary Close:
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Graduate School Reference
Greeting:
Dear Admissions Committee,
Letter Body:
I am writing to provide a reference for [Student Name]. I had the pleasure of supervising [him/her] during [his/her] undergraduate research project and can attest to [his/her] exceptional research skills and dedication to the subject matter. Specifically, [he/she] demonstrated [specific example of research skill or attribute, such as attention to detail or problem-solving ability] throughout the project.
I have no doubt that [Student Name] will excel in [Graduate Program Name] and make valuable contributions to the academic community.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Personal Recommendation
Greeting:
Dear [Recipient Name],
Letter Body:
I am writing to recommend [Name] for [specific opportunity, such as membership in an organization]. I have known [him/her] for [length of time] and can attest to [his/her] [specific attribute, such as dedication or leadership]. Specifically, [he/she] [specific example of attribute, such as organized a successful fundraiser or led a team to victory].
I believe [Name] would make a valuable addition to [organization name] and would excel in this role.
Complimentary Close:
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Professional Reference Request
Greeting:
Dear [Recipient Name],
Letter Body:
I am writing to request a professional reference for my upcoming job search. I have greatly enjoyed working with you at [Company Name] and feel that a reference from you would greatly benefit my job search. Specifically, I am looking for a reference that speaks to my [specific skill or attribute, such as project management or teamwork].
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a reference letter and a recommendation letter?
A reference letter is a letter written by someone who knows you and can attest to your skills and qualifications. A recommendation letter is a letter written by someone who has worked closely with you and can highly recommend you for a specific opportunity.
Can I ask a friend to write a reference letter for me?
You can ask a friend to write a reference letter for you, but it’s important to make sure the person has worked with you in a professional context and can speak to your skills and qualifications.
How long should a reference or recommendation letter be?
A reference or recommendation letter should be one to two pages long. It’s important to provide enough detail to support your recommendation, but not so much that the reader loses interest.
Do I need to use a specific format for a reference or recommendation letter?
Yes, there is a specific format that should be followed for both reference and recommendation letters. Make sure you understand the requirements before you start writing.
What if I don’t feel comfortable providing a positive recommendation?
If you don’t feel comfortable providing a positive recommendation, it’s better to decline the request. It’s important to be honest in your assessment of the person’s skills and qualifications.
How can I make my reference or recommendation letter stand out?
To make your letter stand out, provide specific examples of the person’s skills and qualifications. It’s also important to keep a professional tone and follow the appropriate format.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between reference letters and recommendation letters is essential for anyone who has been asked to provide one. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can create a letter that accurately reflects the person’s skills and qualifications.