Writing a personal letter of recommendation is a significant responsibility. It requires you to honestly and effectively vouch for someone’s character, skills, and suitability for a particular opportunity, whether it’s a job, scholarship, or volunteer position. These letters hold considerable weight, influencing decisions and shaping perceptions. Crafting a compelling letter can make a real difference in the applicant’s success.
The key to a strong personal recommendation lies in providing specific examples and anecdotes that highlight the individual’s qualities. Avoid generic statements and instead focus on concrete instances where you witnessed their strengths. Think about their work ethic, interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and any unique attributes that make them stand out. Remember, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm are crucial for creating a letter that resonates with the reader.
Below are 12 sample personal letters of recommendation to provide you with inspiration. Remember to adapt these templates to fit the specific individual and situation you’re writing about. Pay close attention to the tone, structure, and level of detail provided in each example. By studying these samples, you can gain a better understanding of how to effectively articulate your support and create a letter that truly makes an impact.
These examples cover a range of scenarios, from recommending a friend for a job to supporting a neighbor’s application for a community leadership role. Consider the context of your relationship with the person you are recommending and tailor the language and examples accordingly. Ultimately, your goal is to present a sincere and compelling case for why the individual is deserving of the opportunity.
12 Personal Letter of Recommendation Samples
Sample 1: General Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Committee”]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Name, or “Hiring Committee”],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant’s Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant]. During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [Positive Quality 1, e.g., work ethic] and [Positive Quality 2, e.g., dedication].
Specifically, I recall when [Applicant’s Name] [Briefly describe a specific situation that demonstrates the qualities you mentioned]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] ability to [Skill/Ability]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your team.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Recommendation for a Friend – Job
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Committee”]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Name, or “Hiring Committee”],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have been friends with [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years, and during that time, I’ve seen firsthand [his/her/their] incredible [Skill relevant to the job, e.g., problem-solving abilities] and dedication. While our friendship is personal, I have also witnessed [his/her/their] professional capabilities in [Context, e.g., volunteering together, collaborating on a project].
For example, when we [Describe a situation where your friend demonstrated skills relevant to the job], [Applicant’s Name] [Action they took], which resulted in [Positive outcome]. This shows [his/her/their] [Specific skill, e.g., leadership] and [Another skill, e.g., attention to detail]. I believe [Applicant’s Name]’s passion, skills, and dedication would make [him/her/them] a fantastic addition to your team.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Recommendation for a Neighbor – Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Organization Name]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name (if known), or “Volunteer Committee”]
[Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Volunteer Coordinator Name, or “Volunteer Committee”],
I am writing to recommend my neighbor, [Applicant’s Name], for a volunteer position with your organization. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years and have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] commitment to our community and [Positive Quality, e.g., willingness to help others].
I’ve observed [Applicant’s Name] [Describe a situation where you saw them volunteering or helping others in the neighborhood – e.g., helping elderly neighbors with their groceries, organizing a neighborhood cleanup]. [His/Her/Their] [Action] truly made a difference in the lives of [People affected]. [Applicant’s Name] is a reliable, compassionate, and dedicated individual who I believe would be a valuable asset to your volunteer team.
Please feel free to reach out if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Recommendation for a Former Colleague
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Committee”]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Name, or “Hiring Committee”],
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] at [Previous Company] for [Number] years, where [he/she/they] served as a [Applicant’s Role].
During our time working together, I was consistently impressed by [Applicant’s Name]’s [Skill 1, e.g., analytical skills] and [Skill 2, e.g., ability to work under pressure]. Specifically, I remember when [Describe a specific situation where your colleague demonstrated these skills]. [His/Her/Their] actions resulted in [Positive Outcome], showcasing [his/her/their] dedication and problem-solving abilities. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name]’s skills and experience would make [him/her/them] a valuable asset to your organization.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Recommendation Highlighting Leadership Skills
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Committee”]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Name, or “Hiring Committee”],
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant’s Name]. I’ve known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your relationship – e.g., a mentor, a team leader in a volunteer group] and have consistently observed exceptional leadership qualities.
[Applicant’s Name] consistently demonstrates the ability to motivate and inspire others. For instance, when [Describe a situation where the applicant demonstrated leadership – e.g., leading a project, organizing an event, mentoring others], [he/she/they] effectively [Describe the actions taken that demonstrated leadership – e.g., delegated tasks, resolved conflicts, provided guidance]. This resulted in [Positive outcome directly attributable to their leadership]. [His/Her/Their] ability to [Specific Leadership Skill – e.g., build consensus, inspire confidence, motivate teams] is truly remarkable. I am certain that [Applicant’s Name] possesses the leadership skills to excel in this role.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Recommendation Focusing on Problem-Solving
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Committee”]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Name, or “Hiring Committee”],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name]. My recommendation is based on my experience with [him/her/them] over the past [Number] years as [Your Relationship], where I’ve consistently been impressed by [his/her/their] exceptional problem-solving abilities.
[Applicant’s Name] possesses a remarkable ability to analyze complex situations and develop creative, effective solutions. I recall a specific instance when [Describe a challenging situation the applicant faced]. [He/She/They] approached the problem by [Describe the steps they took to solve the problem, highlighting their analytical and problem-solving skills], ultimately resulting in [Positive Outcome]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] [Specific Skills – e.g., critical thinking, resourcefulness, strategic planning]. I am confident in [Applicant’s Name]’s ability to tackle any challenges that come [his/her/their] way.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Recommendation for a Scholarship
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Institution/Organization]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee]
[Scholarship Name]
[Organization Providing Scholarship]
[Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., his/her teacher, mentor, supervisor] at [Institution/Organization]. During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] intelligence, work ethic, and dedication to [Field of Study/Area of Interest].
[Applicant’s Name] is a highly motivated and intellectually curious individual. For example, in my [Course Name/Project Name], [he/she/they] [Describe a specific accomplishment or contribution the applicant made that showcases their abilities and dedication]. This demonstrated not only [his/her/their] understanding of the subject matter but also [his/her/their] ability to [Specific Skill, e.g., think critically, solve complex problems, work collaboratively]. Furthermore, [Applicant’s Name]’s passion for [Field of Study/Area of Interest] is evident in [Specific Example, e.g., extracurricular activities, independent research, volunteer work]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will make significant contributions to [Field of Study/Area of Interest] and is highly deserving of this scholarship.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Recommendation for Admission to a Program (e.g., College)
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Institution/Organization]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee]
[Program Name/Department Name]
[University/College Name]
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission to the [Program Name/Department Name] program at [University/College Name]. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., his/her teacher, mentor, supervisor] at [Institution/Organization]. During this time, I have consistently observed [his/her/their] intellectual curiosity, strong work ethic, and genuine passion for [Subject Area].
[Applicant’s Name] is a bright and motivated student with a clear aptitude for [Subject Area]. In [Course Name/Project Name], [he/she/they] demonstrated [Specific Skill, e.g., critical thinking, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities] by [Describe a specific example of the applicant demonstrating this skill, quantifying the results if possible]. Beyond academics, [Applicant’s Name] is also actively involved in [Extracurricular Activities/Volunteer Work], showcasing [his/her/their] commitment to [Values/Goals reflected in the activities]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] possesses the intellectual capacity, drive, and personal qualities to thrive in your program and make significant contributions to your community.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Recommendation for a Creative Role (e.g., Artist, Designer)
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Company/Organization]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name or Art Director]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name or Art Director],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Job Title/Opportunity]. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., a mentor, professor, supervisor] and have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] creativity, talent, and dedication to [Artistic Medium/Discipline].
[Applicant’s Name] possesses a unique artistic vision and a strong technical skill set. [His/Her/Their] work is characterized by [Describe the applicant’s style, e.g., bold use of color, innovative compositions, attention to detail]. For example, in [Project Name/Exhibition Name], [he/she/they] [Describe a specific piece of work or accomplishment that showcases their talent and creativity]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] ability to [Specific skills relevant to the role, e.g., conceptualize innovative ideas, execute complex designs, communicate effectively through visual mediums]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name]’s creativity and passion would be a valuable asset to your team.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Recommendation for a Role Requiring Strong Communication Skills
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Company/Organization]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name or Search Committee]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name or Search Committee],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name]. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., supervisor, colleague, instructor] and have consistently been impressed by [his/her/their] exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
[Applicant’s Name] is an articulate and persuasive communicator who excels at conveying complex information in a clear and concise manner. For instance, when [Describe a situation where the applicant had to communicate effectively, e.g., presenting to a group, writing a report, resolving a conflict], [he/she/they] [Describe how they communicated effectively, highlighting specific skills such as active listening, clear articulation, persuasive writing]. This resulted in [Positive outcome directly related to their communication skills]. [His/Her/Their] ability to [Specific communication skill e.g., build rapport, negotiate effectively, present information persuasively] makes [him/her/them] an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] possesses the communication skills necessary to succeed and contribute significantly to your organization.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Recommendation for a Technology-Focused Position
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Company/Organization]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name or Hiring Committee]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name or Hiring Committee],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Job Title] position. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., supervisor, team lead, project collaborator]. During that time, I have been consistently impressed with [his/her/their] technical skills and their dedication to staying current with the latest industry trends.
[Applicant’s Name] has a strong grasp of [Specific Technologies/Skills Relevant to the Position, e.g., Python, Java, cloud computing, data analysis]. For example, when we were working on [Project Name], [he/she/they] [Describe a specific contribution they made using their technical skills. Be specific – mention technologies used, challenges overcome, and results achieved]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] [Specific Skills – e.g., ability to learn new technologies quickly, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, collaborative spirit]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name]’s technical expertise and enthusiasm would make [him/her/them] a valuable asset to your team.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Recommendation for an Entry-Level Position (Focus on Potential)
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Position]
[Your Company/Organization]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name or Hiring Committee]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name or Hiring Committee],
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Entry-Level Position Title] position at your company. While [Applicant’s Name] is early in [his/her/their] career, I have been consistently impressed with [his/her/their] potential and eagerness to learn.
I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to the Applicant, e.g., professor, volunteer coordinator, mentor]. During this time, [he/she/they] has demonstrated a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a willingness to take on new challenges. For example, in [Situation where they demonstrated positive qualities, e.g., a class project, a volunteer role, a previous internship], [he/she/they] [Describe what they did and how they approached the task. Focus on qualities like initiative, responsibility, and perseverance]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] [Specific Skills or Qualities – e.g., problem-solving skills, teamwork skills, ability to learn quickly, commitment to excellence]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] is a quick learner and will be a valuable asset to your team with the right training and mentorship.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
A well-crafted personal letter of recommendation can significantly impact an individual’s chances of success. By using these samples as a starting point, tailoring them to the specific applicant and situation, and focusing on concrete examples, you can create a compelling letter that showcases their strengths and helps them achieve their goals. Remember to be honest, enthusiastic, and specific in your recommendation.
