As a business owner, manager, or supervisor, you may have been asked to write a letter of recommendation for a colleague, employee, or former staff member. It can be challenging knowing how to structure the letter, what information to include and how to express your enthusiasm for the person you’re recommending.
To alleviate that stress, we’ve created a template for a business letter of recommendation. This simple, yet effective template can save you time and energy while ensuring you present your recommendation in a clear and concise manner.
The template includes all the necessary elements of a business letter, such as an appropriate salutation, introduction, body, and closing. It also prompts you to include specific information, such as the person’s job title, duration of employment, and key strengths or achievements relevant to the position they’re seeking.
You can find examples of this template online if you need inspiration, and edit it as needed to reflect your unique voice and experience working with the person you’re recommending. Using a template like this can streamline the letter-writing process so you can focus on telling a compelling story that highlights the person’s strengths and qualifications, setting them apart from other applicants.
So, whether you’re writing a recommendation for someone applying to college, grad school, or for a new job, this template can help you shine a spotlight on their strengths, and showcase your own abilities as a writer and professional. Try it out today!
The Best Structure for a Template Business Letter of Recommendation
When it comes to writing a business letter of recommendation, the structure you use can make all the difference in how effective your words are in conveying and persuading employers, partners, or potential clients. Here’s the best structure for a template business letter of recommendation:
1. Introduction: Begin your letter with a clear and concise introduction of yourself as the recommender and your relationship with the person being recommended. Mention the context of your recommendation, such as the job or industry they’re pursuing.
2. Background: Follow up with a brief background on the recommendee, such as their education, experience, and most relevant skills or achievements that make them an exceptional candidate. Make sure to stay focused and relevant in your description, and avoid irrelevant details.
3. Specific Qualifications: Highlight specific qualities or skills that make the person an outstanding candidate for the recommended position. These qualities or skills should be tailored to the specific job or industry and supported with examples or anecdotes. Make sure you’re not making unsubstantiated claims.
4. Examples: Share specific examples of how the person demonstrated their skills and exceeded expectations in the past. If there are significant achievements or projects the person has accomplished, describe them in detail, and focus on how they added value to the organization.
5. Personal Recommendation: Finish the letter by stating your final recommendation and why you believe the person is a strong candidate for the position. Use your personal recommendations to express confidence in the person’s ability to perform exceptionally in their new role. Be sincere, concise, and positive.
Using this structure ensures that your letter of recommendation is clear, concise, and effectively persuades potential employers or partners. While this is a template structure, make sure that you personalize it with specific details and your unique perspective on the person’s qualifications and experiences.
In conclusion, writing a good business letter of recommendation requires a thoughtful and well-structured approach. Use the above structure, and you’ll be able to convey the recommendee’s strengths and persuade the recipient of the letter’s value effectively.
Business Letter of Recommendation Templates
Template 1: Business Letter of Recommendation for Employment
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name of the Candidate] for the position of [Job Title] in your reputable company. I have known [Name of the Candidate] for [Number of Years] and had the pleasure of working alongside [Him/Her] in [Name of the Company/Organization].
Throughout our professional relationship, [Name of the Candidate] demonstrated exceptional skills in [Job Responsibility/Area of Expertise]. [He/She] consistently exceeded expectations and brought several innovative ideas to the table. [He/She] made valuable contributions to our team, and [His/Her] charismatic personality made [Him/Her] a well-liked colleague.
I am confident that [Name of the Candidate] would be a positive addition to your team and make substantial contributions to your organization. I recommend [Him/Her] without reservation for the said position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 2: Business Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship
Dear [Scholarship Committee],
I am pleased to recommend [Name of the Candidate] for the [Name of Scholarship], which is being offered by [Name of the Institution]. I have known [Name of the Candidate] for [Number of Years] as [Reference to How You Know the Candidate].
During my interaction with [Him/Her], I was impressed with [His/Her] commitment to academic excellence, passion for learning, and exceptional interpersonal skills. [Name of the Candidate] demonstrated these positive traits inside and outside the classroom, always engaging in collaborative activities and community service.
I am confident that the scholarship committee will be impressed with [Name of the Candidate’s] scholastic and extracurricular achievements, and fully support [His/Her] pursuit of higher education. I recommend [Him/Her] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 3: Business Letter of Recommendation for Promotion
Dear [Human Resources Manager/Supervisor],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name of the Employee] for promotion to the position of [New Job Title] in your reputable company. I have had the pleasure of working with [Him/Her] for [Number of Years], and [He/She] has proven to be an exceptional employee.
Throughout [His/Her] tenure at our organization, [Name of the Employee] has consistently demonstrated [His/Her] expertise in [Area of Expertise]. [He/She] consistently exceeded expectations, contributed new ideas, and successfully managed complex projects, leading [His/Her] team to meet or surpass their targets.
I have no doubt that [Name of the Employee] will continue to bring a high level of enthusiasm and excellence to [His/Her] new role, and I recommend [Him/Her] for the promotion without any reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 4: Business Letter of Recommendation for Vendor
Dear [Vendor Selection Committee],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name of the Vendor] for the supply of [Product/Service] to our organization. We have had the pleasure of working with [Name of the Vendor] for [Number of Years], and [His/Her] products/services have consistently met our expectations.
[Name of the Vendor] has always been professional, responsive, and demonstrated excellent customer service. [His/Her] products/services have always been delivered on time and within the agreed budget, and [He/She] was always willing to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.
I am confident that [Name of the Vendor’s] products/services will be a valuable asset to your organization, and I recommend [Him/Her] without reservation for the supply of [Product/Service].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 5: Business Letter of Recommendation for Admission
Dear [Admissions Committee],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name of the Applicant] for admission to [Name of the Institution] for [Name of the Program] in the upcoming academic year. I have known [Name of the Applicant] for [Number of Years], and [He/She] has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements.
During [His/Her] high school years, [Name of the Applicant] was an active participant in [Extracurricular Activities], and [His/Her] commitment to excellence was evident in [His/Her] list of accomplishments. [He/She] also demonstrated leadership skills, and [His/Her] contributions to the school community were commendable.
I am confident that [Name of the Applicant] will be a valuable asset to your institution and excel in [His/Her] academic pursuits. I recommend [Him/Her] without hesitation for admission to [Name of the Program].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 6: Business Letter of Recommendation for Business Partnership
Dear [Business Owner/Partnership Committee],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name of the Company] as a potential business partner. I have had the pleasure of working with [Them] for [Number of Years], and [They] have established themselves as a reputable and successful business in the industry.
[Name of the Company’s] commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer service has been impressive, and [Their] growth and success over the years are a testament to [Their] hard work and dedication.
I am confident that [Name of the Company] will bring value to any business partnership, and I recommend [Them] without any reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 7: Business Letter of Recommendation for Professional Membership
Dear [Membership Committee],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name of the Professional] for membership to your prestigious organization. I have had the pleasure of working with [Him/Her] on several projects and have been impressed with [His/Her] exceptional skills in [Area of Expertise].
[Name of the Professional’s] dedication to ongoing professional development and participation in industry-related events and activities have been impressive, and [He/She] actively contributes to [His/Her] professional community.
I am confident that [Name of the Professional] will be an asset to your organization, and I recommend [Him/Her] for membership without any reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Crafting a Great Business Letter of Recommendation
The overall purpose of a business letter of recommendation is to provide support and confirmation for someone’s abilities or character, whether for a job, an award, or another professional opportunity. To create an impactful and effective recommendation, follow these tips:
• Start with a clear and definitive statement of what the recommendation is for, and lay out what you will be discussing in the letter.
• Be as specific and detailed as possible about the person you are recommending, outlining their strengths and accomplishments with real-world examples.
• Use engaging language to bring the person’s character or professional abilities to life, conveying their passion and drive.
• Be honest with your assessment, but avoid being overly critical or nitpicky in your evaluation.
• Include any relevant professional qualifications or credentials, such as degrees or certifications.
• Speak to the person’s potential for growth and development, not just their existing achievements.
• Keep the writing style polished and professional, avoiding overly casual language and slang.
• Proofread meticulously for grammar and spelling errors; a typo or grammatical mistake can significantly diminish the impact of the letter.
• Don’t be too long-winded; keep the letter concise and to-the-point, while still including all the necessary information.
• End the letter with a strong summary of your recommendation, leaving no doubt in the reader’s mind about the person’s suitability for the opportunity or role.
Remember, your business letter of recommendation may be a critical factor in someone’s career or professional development. By following these tips, you can ensure that you create a truly impactful and noteworthy recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Business Letter of Recommendation Templates
What is a business letter of recommendation?
A business letter of recommendation is a formal document that attests to the credibility, competence, and work ethics of an individual or an organization. It is typically written by a supervisor, colleague, or mentor, and is used to recommend the individual or organization for future endeavors.
Why do I need a business letter of recommendation?
A business letter of recommendation is required by employees, entrepreneurs, and job seekers to demonstrate their capabilities and achievements to potential employers, customers, partners, or investors. It serves as proof of their qualifications and helps them stand out among competitors.
What should be included in a business letter of recommendation?
A business letter of recommendation should include the following elements: the date, the recipient’s name and address, a professional salutation, an introduction that explains the purpose of the letter, a body that highlights the individual’s or organization’s qualities, achievements, and contributions, and a conclusion that summarizes the recommendation and provides contact information.
Can I use a business letter of recommendation template?
Yes, you can use a business letter of recommendation template as a guide to help you structure your letter effectively. However, the template should be customized to suit the unique circumstances of the individual or organization you are recommending, and not copied verbatim.
Where can I find a business letter of recommendation template?
You can find a business letter of recommendation template online, on business stationery websites, or on Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Make sure you choose a template that matches your purpose, audience, tone, and format requirements.
How do I write a personalized business letter of recommendation?
To write a personalized business letter of recommendation, you should tailor your language, tone, and details to fit the individual or organization you are recommending. Use specific examples, anecdotes, and metrics to support your claims, and highlight their unique strengths and potential for growth. Review, edit, and proofread your letter to ensure it is error-free and impactful.
When should I send a business letter of recommendation?
You should send a business letter of recommendation as soon as possible after the individual or organization has requested it, or as soon as you have agreed to write one. If you are recommending an employee or colleague for a specific job or opportunity, make sure you send the letter before the application deadline.
Wrapping it up
And with that, you now have a solid foundation to create your own effective business letter of recommendation. Remember to keep it professional, sincere, and concise. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be boring! Inject your personality and enthusiasm into your words to truly capture the essence of your recommended candidate. Thanks for reading, and make sure to visit us again for more helpful tips and resources for your career success.