Letter of Recommendation

A letter of recommendation, often abbreviated as LOR, is a document written by someone who can provide insights into an individual's skills, qualifications, character, and achievements. This document is typically requested when a person is applying for a job, academic program, scholarship, internship, or any other opportunity that requires external validation of their qualifications.

 

Key points to note about letters of recommendation:

 

1. Purpose: The primary purpose of a letter of recommendation is to provide a credible and personalized assessment of the individual's capabilities and qualifications. It aims to give the recipient (e.g., employer, admissions committee) additional perspectives beyond what is presented in the person's resume or application.

2. Authorship: Letters of recommendation are usually written by individuals who have had a professional or academic relationship with the person being recommended. Common authors include professors, employers, supervisors, mentors, or colleagues.

3. Content: A well-crafted letter of recommendation typically includes information about the person's skills, achievements, work ethic, character, and any specific accomplishments. It may also highlight the person's suitability for the position or program they are applying for.

4. Confidentiality: Letters of recommendation are often treated as confidential, and the author may not share the contents of the letter with the person being recommended. This confidentiality is important to maintain the integrity and honesty of the recommendation.

5. Submission: Letters of recommendation are usually submitted directly to the entity requesting them. For example, if a student is applying for a university program, the letter may be submitted along with the application materials or sent separately by the recommender.

6. Format: The format of a letter of recommendation may vary depending on the specific requirements of the recipient. However, it generally includes a salutation, an introduction, the main body of the letter, and a conclusion.

7. Signature: The letter is typically signed by the author to confirm its authenticity. In some cases, contact information for the recommender may also be provided in case the recipient has further questions.

 

When requesting a letter of recommendation, it's important for the person seeking the recommendation to provide the recommender with relevant information, such as the specific purpose of the recommendation, key qualifications to highlight, and any specific guidelines or forms provided by the recipient. This helps the recommender tailor the letter to the intended audience and purpose.

 

Thank you,