Job Search Reference Letters vs Letters of Recommendation.

Nothing is more pleasing yet truly frightening than being asked to write a letter of recommendation for a friend or colleague. Indeed, for a hot minute, it is flattering to be asked to write a letter of recommendation for a colleague.

You may have had a productive experience working with them at your present or previous job. Plus, there were a few particularly lengthy and complex projects that you worked on together, and you enjoyed working with them, so you are keen to help. But above all, you would like to write an effective recommendation to maximize their chance of securing the role or place they are applying for. So, the question becomes, what is the essential difference between the two types of letters?

What is a letter of recommendation? While the terms letters of recommendation and reference letters are sometimes used interchangeably, there are a few subtle differences between the two.

??????? A letter of recommendation addresses a candidate's credentials, skills, and experience.

??????? On the other hand, a reference letter serves as a?character reference. It focuses more on the candidate's qualities, attributes, and values.

Applicants may submit a letter of recommendation instead of a cover letter as part of the job application. However, the company is more likely to review and request letters of recommendation at the offer stage to support and inform decision-making. Depending on the applicant's experience level, the letter can be written by former employers or work colleagues.

For the writer of the recommendation, the task's weight is heavy, and since you are being trusted to portray the applicant in the best possible light, some prep work is essential before you begin. The letter aims to identify the person's strengths, so the writer must determine which qualities and experience to highlight. For example, an employer may be interested in the person's work ethic, leadership skills, or other strengths beyond the technical and project-specific skills that would bolster their claim of making them an asset to the business.

How to write a letter of recommendation?

Ask your contact for their current resume and the details about the job they are being considered for. Be clear about to whom the letter should be addressed, what information that person is seeking, the submission deadline, and if specific attribute examples need to be highlighted. ?

Here is a simple format that can be used when drafting a letter of recommendation.

? Greeting: A neutral greeting such as Hello, "Jane Smith, Hiring Manager| Human resources, etc." is best.

??????? Introduction: The first paragraph should identify/explain who the recommendation is for, your relationship with the person, and what position you are writing about.

??????? Body of the letter: This section is an essential part of the letter, so it is necessary to highlight all the skills and experience that demonstrate the applicant's suitability for the position and specifically relevant examples.

If you're creating a letter of support at the offers stage of the interview process, include information regarding the candidate's achievements and problem-solving skills. Remember to add examples that highlight the candidate's strengths.

??????? Conclusion: Summarize the key points and restate your recommendation. For example, you can reiterate their excellent project management and organizational skills that will be invaluable in their new role.

? Signature: Provide your full name, title, contact details, and how to contact you should the recipient have more questions.

Writing a quality letter of recommendation takes confidence, planning, and time. If you have known the person for years, you might have several project-related examples you can share with prospective employers. However, check with the candidate to identify projects or achievements they may want to highlight.

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