Writing a compelling recommendation letter can significantly impact someone’s future. Whether it’s for a job, college admission, or scholarship, a strong letter highlights an individual’s unique qualities and achievements. The following collection of 22 sample recommendation letters provides templates and inspiration for various situations. Each example demonstrates how to effectively showcase a candidate’s strengths and make a positive impression on the reader. Consider the specific context and adjust the template accordingly for a personalized and impactful recommendation.
The key to a successful recommendation letter lies in providing concrete examples that illustrate the candidate’s skills and abilities. Instead of simply stating that someone is “hardworking,” describe a specific project where they demonstrated exceptional work ethic. Focus on quantifiable results whenever possible. For instance, “Increased sales by 15% in the first quarter.” By tailoring each letter to the recipient’s requirements and providing specific, verifiable details, you can significantly increase the candidate’s chances of success.
Sample Recommendation Letters:
Sample 1: General Recommendation for Employment
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship to Applicant] at [Your Organization].
During their time with us, [Applicant Name] consistently demonstrated [Key Skill 1], [Key Skill 2], and [Key Skill 3]. For example, [Specific Example]. Their [Positive Trait] attitude and dedication made them a valuable asset to our team.
I am confident that [Applicant Name] possesses the skills and qualifications necessary to excel in this role. I highly recommend them without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Academic Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Department]
[Your University]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student Name] for admission to your [Program Name] program. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Student Name] as their [Your Role – e.g., Professor] in [Course Name] at [University Name].
[Student Name] is an exceptional student with a keen intellect and a genuine passion for [Subject]. They consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of complex concepts and actively participated in class discussions. Specifically, [Specific Example of Academic Achievement].
Beyond their academic abilities, [Student Name] is also a highly motivated and dedicated individual. They possess the critical thinking skills and work ethic necessary to succeed in your rigorous program. I am confident that they will make significant contributions to your academic community. I highly recommend [Student Name] without hesitation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Recommendation for Scholarship
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship to Applicant] at [Your Organization].
[Applicant Name] is a highly motivated and talented individual with a strong commitment to [Field of Study/Interest]. They have consistently demonstrated exceptional [Quality 1] and [Quality 2]. For instance, [Specific Example demonstrating Qualities]. They are a dedicated and hardworking individual who is determined to achieve their goals.
Awarding [Applicant Name] this scholarship would not only recognize their past achievements but also empower them to pursue their academic aspirations. I am confident that they will make a significant contribution to society. I wholeheartedly recommend them for this prestigious scholarship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Recommendation for Internship
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name] for an internship at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] as a student in my [Course Name] class at [University Name].
[Applicant Name] is a bright and enthusiastic student with a strong interest in [Industry/Field]. They possess a solid understanding of [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2]. During our class project, [Applicant Name] took initiative and [Specific Example Demonstrating Skills].
I believe that [Applicant Name]’s eagerness to learn, combined with their relevant skills and positive attitude, would make them a valuable asset to your team. I highly recommend them for this internship opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Recommendation for a Colleague
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Colleague Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Colleague Name] for [Number] years at [Your Organization] as their [Your Role in relation to Colleague].
[Colleague Name] is a highly skilled and dedicated professional with a proven track record of success in [Industry/Field]. They are particularly strong in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. During our time working together, [Specific Example showcasing Colleague’s Skills and Positive Impact]. [Colleague Name] is also an excellent team player and a strong communicator.
I am confident that [Colleague Name] would be a valuable asset to your organization. I highly recommend them without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Recommendation for Leadership Position
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Candidate Name] for the leadership position of [Position Title] at [Company Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role/Relationship].
[Candidate Name] possesses the key qualities of an effective leader: vision, integrity, and the ability to inspire others. They consistently demonstrate [Specific Leadership Skill 1], such as [Example of Leadership Skill 1], and [Specific Leadership Skill 2], as evidenced by [Example of Leadership Skill 2]. Their ability to motivate and guide teams towards achieving common goals is truly remarkable.
I am confident that [Candidate Name]’s leadership skills and experience make them an ideal candidate for this position. They are a strategic thinker, a problem-solver, and a dedicated professional. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Recommendation for Volunteer Work
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Organization Contact]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Organization Contact],
I am writing to recommend [Volunteer Name] for a volunteer opportunity with your organization. I had the pleasure of working with [Volunteer Name] at [Your Organization/Event] as their [Your Role/Relationship].
[Volunteer Name] is a dedicated and compassionate individual with a strong desire to make a positive impact in the community. During their time volunteering with us, they consistently demonstrated [Positive Quality 1, e.g., reliability], [Positive Quality 2, e.g., teamwork], and [Positive Quality 3, e.g., a positive attitude]. For example, [Specific Instance showcasing Volunteer’s positive qualities].
[Volunteer Name] is a valuable asset to any volunteer team. Their willingness to help and their genuine care for others make them an ideal candidate. I highly recommend them for any volunteer opportunity you may have available.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Recommendation for a Teacher
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[School Name]
[School Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
It is with immense pleasure that I recommend [Teacher’s Name] for a teaching position at [School Name]. I have known [Teacher’s Name] for [Number] years as the parent of [Child’s Name], who was a student in [Teacher’s Name]’s [Grade Level] class.
[Teacher’s Name] is an exceptional educator who is truly passionate about teaching and dedicated to the success of their students. They create a stimulating and engaging learning environment where students feel supported and encouraged to reach their full potential. [Specific Example 1 of Teacher’s Positive Impact] and [Specific Example 2 of Teacher’s Positive Impact] truly impacted my child’s love of learning.
[Teacher’s Name] possesses excellent communication skills, a strong understanding of pedagogy, and a genuine commitment to their students’ well-being. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your school. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Recommendation for a Mentor
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Mentor’s Name] for a mentoring role within your organization. I have had the privilege of being mentored by [Mentor’s Name] for the past [Number] years.
[Mentor’s Name] is an exceptional mentor who possesses a unique ability to guide and inspire others. They have provided me with invaluable advice, support, and encouragement throughout my career. [Specific Example 1 of Mentor’s Guidance] and [Specific Example 2 of Mentor’s Impactful Advice] are just two examples of how they’ve helped me grow both professionally and personally. [Mentor’s Name] always provides time and support in a proactive manner.
[Mentor’s Name] is a highly skilled communicator, a patient listener, and a true advocate for their mentees. I am confident that they would be an invaluable asset to your organization’s mentoring program. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Recommendation for a Coach
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Sports Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Coach’s Name] for the position of [Coaching Position] with [Sports Organization Name]. I have known [Coach’s Name] for [Number] years as a [Player/Parent] on their team.
[Coach’s Name] is an exceptional coach who is dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential both on and off the field. They possess a deep understanding of the sport, excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion for coaching. Under [Coach’s Name]’s guidance, our team [Specific Achievement of the Team] and [Specific Individual Achievement of a Player]. [Coach’s Name] is not only a great coach, but a wonderful person.
[Coach’s Name] is also a role model for their athletes, teaching them the importance of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your organization. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Recommendation for a Business Partner
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Business Partner’s Name] for a partnership opportunity with your company. I have had the pleasure of working with [Business Partner’s Name] for [Number] years as their business partner at [Your Organization].
[Business Partner’s Name] is a highly skilled and experienced business professional with a proven track record of success. They possess a strong understanding of [Industry/Field], excellent negotiation skills, and a keen eye for opportunity. Together, we [Specific Achievement resulting from the Partnership] and [Another Specific Achievement showing Success]. [Business Partner’s Name] always keeps integrity at the core of their business practices.
[Business Partner’s Name] is also a highly collaborative and communicative individual, making them an ideal partner. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your organization. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Recommendation for Personal Qualities (Character Reference)
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient Name/Organization]
[Recipient Address]
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Person’s Name]. I have known [Person’s Name] for [Number] years as a [Your Relationship to Person].
Throughout our acquaintance, I have consistently been impressed by [Person’s Name]’s integrity, honesty, and compassion. They are a reliable and trustworthy individual who always puts others first. [Specific Example illustrating Integrity] and [Specific Example showing Compassion] demonstrate their strong moral compass. [Person’s Name] is a wonderful human being.
[Person’s Name] is also a highly responsible and dependable individual. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to any situation or endeavor. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Recommendation for a Nanny/Caregiver
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient Name/Organization]
[Recipient Address]
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Nanny’s Name] as a nanny/caregiver. [Nanny’s Name] provided childcare for my children, [Child 1’s Name] and [Child 2’s Name], for [Number] years.
[Nanny’s Name] is a loving, responsible, and highly capable caregiver. She always prioritized the safety and well-being of my children, engaging them in stimulating activities and providing them with a nurturing environment. [Specific Example 1 of Nanny’s positive interaction with children] and [Specific Example 2 of Nanny’s caregiving abilities]. She is always punctual and dependable.
[Nanny’s Name] is also excellent at communicating with parents and is always willing to go the extra mile. I am confident that she would be a wonderful asset to your family. I highly recommend her without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Recommendation for a Freelancer
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[To Whom It May Concern]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend [Freelancer’s Name] for freelance work in the area of [Freelancer’s Area of Expertise]. I have worked with [Freelancer’s Name] on [Number] projects over the past [Time Period].
[Freelancer’s Name] is a highly skilled and reliable freelancer. They consistently deliver high-quality work on time and within budget. For instance, on project [Project Name], [Freelancer’s Name] [Specific Achievement and Positive Contribution]. Their communication is excellent, and they are always responsive to feedback.
I would highly recommend [Freelancer’s Name] to anyone looking for a talented and dependable freelancer. They are a valuable asset to any team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Recommendation for a Restaurant Employee (Server, Cook, etc.)
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Restaurant Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Restaurant Name]
[Restaurant Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
It is with pleasure that I recommend [Employee’s Name] for a position at your restaurant. I was [Employee’s Name]’s manager at [Your Restaurant Name] for [Number] years.
[Employee’s Name] is a hardworking, reliable, and enthusiastic employee. They consistently provided excellent customer service and were always willing to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction. [Specific Instance of Positive Customer Interaction] demonstrates their dedication. They were also a valued member of our team, always willing to help out their colleagues.
[Employee’s Name] is a quick learner and possesses a strong work ethic. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your team. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 16: Recommendation for a Salesperson
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to highly recommend [Salesperson’s Name] for a sales position at your company. I have worked with [Salesperson’s Name] for [Number] years at [Your Company Name] as their [Your Role].
[Salesperson’s Name] is a highly motivated and results-oriented salesperson. They have a proven track record of exceeding sales targets and building strong relationships with clients. During their time with us, they [Specific Achievement 1 with Quantifiable Results, e.g., increased sales by 20%] and [Specific Achievement 2, e.g., consistently exceeded quota by 15%]. They have excellent communication and negotiation skills.
[Salesperson’s Name] is a valuable asset to any sales team. I am confident that they would be successful in this role. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 17: Recommendation for an Engineer
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Engineer’s Name] for an engineering position at your company. I worked with [Engineer’s Name] on several projects at [Your Company Name] and found them to be a valuable asset to the team.
[Engineer’s Name] possesses a strong foundation in engineering principles and a keen eye for detail. They are proficient in [Specific Engineering Software/Skills] and consistently deliver high-quality work. On the [Project Name] project, they [Specific Example of Engineering Skill and Problem Solving]. [Engineer’s Name] consistently takes initiative and is detail oriented.
[Engineer’s Name] is also a team player and a strong communicator. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your engineering team. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 18: Recommendation for a Software Developer
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Developer’s Name] for a Software Developer position at your organization. I have had the pleasure of working alongside [Developer’s Name] at [Your Company Name] for the past [Number] years.
[Developer’s Name] is a highly skilled and dedicated software developer with a strong understanding of [Programming Languages/Technologies]. They consistently deliver high-quality, well-documented code. For example, on the [Project Name] project, [Specific Technical Achievement and Problem Solving]. They are also adept at learning new technologies quickly.
[Developer’s Name] is a collaborative team player and a valuable asset to any software development team. They communicate effectively and are always willing to share their knowledge. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 19: Recommendation for a Graphic Designer
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Designer’s Name] for the Graphic Designer position at your company. I had the pleasure of working with [Designer’s Name] as their [Your Role – e.g., supervisor] at [Your Company Name] for [Number] years.
[Designer’s Name] is a talented and creative graphic designer with a strong eye for detail. They have a strong understanding of design principles and are proficient in [Design Software]. They consistently produce high-quality designs that meet the needs of our clients. For example, [Specific Project and Positive Outcome]. [Designer’s Name] is always willing to improve their skills and produce high quality work.
[Designer’s Name] is a valuable asset to any creative team. I am confident that they would be a successful addition to your team. I highly recommend them without hesitation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 20: Recommendation for a Marketing Professional
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Marketing Professional’s Name] for a marketing role within your organization. I have known [Marketing Professional’s Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role/Relationship] at [Your Company Name].
[Marketing Professional’s Name] is a highly skilled and experienced marketing professional with a proven track record of success. They have a deep understanding of [Marketing Channels/Strategies] and are adept at developing and implementing effective marketing campaigns. For example, they [Specific Achievement with Quantifiable Results, e.g., increased website traffic by 30%]. They are very creative and have excellent communication abilities.
[Marketing Professional’s Name] is a strategic thinker, a results-oriented professional, and a valuable asset to any marketing team. I highly recommend them without any reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 21: Recommendation for a Project Manager
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Project Manager’s Name] for the position of Project Manager at your company. I worked closely with [Project Manager’s Name] at [Your Company Name] and was consistently impressed with their skills and dedication.
[Project Manager’s Name] is a highly organized, detail-oriented, and effective project manager. They have a strong understanding of project management methodologies and are adept at managing complex projects from start to finish. For instance, on the [Project Name] project, they [Specific Example of Project Management Skills and Success]. They are effective at keeping all parties on schedule and on budget.
[Project Manager’s Name] is also an excellent communicator and a strong team leader. I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your organization. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 22: Recommendation for Someone Applying to Law School
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[University Name]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee]
[Law School Name]
[Law School Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission to your law school. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Applicant’s Name] as a student in my [Course Name] class at [University Name].
[Applicant’s Name] is an exceptional student with a sharp intellect, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for the law. They consistently demonstrated excellent analytical and critical thinking skills in my class, particularly in [Specific Area related to Law]. For example, their research paper on [Topic] was exceptionally well-researched and argued. [Applicant’s Name] is always prepared and willing to learn.
[Applicant’s Name] is also an articulate and persuasive communicator, both orally and in writing. I am confident that they possess the intellectual capacity, the dedication, and the interpersonal skills necessary to succeed in your rigorous law school program. I highly recommend them without hesitation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
These 22 sample recommendation letters are designed to provide a solid foundation for crafting impactful and personalized letters. Remember to tailor each letter to the specific requirements of the recipient and to highlight the candidate’s unique strengths and achievements. By focusing on concrete examples and quantifiable results, you can create a compelling recommendation that significantly enhances the candidate’s chances of success. Good luck!