The Power Of A Good Word: How To Write A Recommendation Letter That Will Help An Employee Stand Out

Letter of Recommendation For Employee

Aside from mailing a cover letter and CV while looking for a new job, getting the support of former managers could also be significantly beneficial.

If you are that manager and you need assistance in creating a letter of recommendation for a former employee, you definitely came to the right place!

Here is an article to guide you on how to write an impactful recommendation letter. Keep reading to learn more. 

What Is A Recommendation Letter For An Employee?

Typically, a manager is the one who will write a recommendation letter for a former employee. It’s a strong recommendation technique for the candidate’s future employment and details their talents, attributes, and performance on the job.

It should be written very professionally as you recommend someone for their future job. A credible person should only write a recommendation letter. Otherwise, it may have a negative impact and eventually damage the applicant’s prospects of being recruited.

How To Write A Letter of Recommendation For An Employee

If you are going to write a recommendation letter for an employee, always remember that it is also a business letter. This means it follows a standard and professional format. Here is a guide to writing a recommendation letter:

  • Header

The first part should look like a formal business letter. At the top, put your contact information and the date. Then, put the recipient’s name, title, company name, and any contact information you have under the header.

  • Salutation

The easiest salutation is “Dear,” followed by the person’s name. For example: Dear Arthur Miller, and make sure there’s a comma after their name. If you don’t know the person’s name, “To Whom It May Concern” is also good.

  • First Paragraph

Start the letter by telling the applicant who you are and how you know them. It’s also a good idea to say what the letter is for and make it clear immediately that it’s a recommendation letter.

  • Body Paragraph

In the letter’s body, explain why you suggest the candidate, describe their positive traits and offer instances of how they handled their work successfully. It explains what the person can offer, why you suggest them, and why they are qualified. Use multiple paragraphs to explain.

  • Closing

Finish the letter by saying that you’re happy to answer any questions. Then, write “Sincerely” at the end and leave room to sign your name. Then, type out your name.

Recommendation Letter VS. Cover Letter

Both recommendation and cover letters can be used for someone’s job applications. They both can help your application stand out. However, they are different from each other.

  • A recommendation letter for an employee should sometimes be sent only if requested. If you don’t do it right, sending your recommendation letter, even if it’s not required, could make the recruiter feel bad and weaken your application.
  • On the other hand, you can send your cover letter spontaneously when you apply for a job. Unlike a recommendation letter, a cover letter is written by you and shows how you can impress employers and set yourself apart from other candidates.

Keep in mind that not all companies want reference letters. Sometimes they may want a resume or a resume and a cover letter.

Tips For Writing An Effective Recommendation Letter For Employees

Here are a few tips if you are a manager writing a recommendation letter to an employee:

  • Personalize the letter. Some supervisors urge employees to compose letters when they’re pushed for time. Using templates will save time.
  • Keep it short. One page should tell you everything you need to know about the employee.
  • Learn about your employee’s position. This helps you write about their suitability for the post.
  • Make a fair and balanced suggestion. Mention how the employee tried to improve any issues indicated for improvement.

Sample and Template

Here is a sample that you can use to edit.

(Your Name)

(Your Address)

(Your Email)

Dear Ms. (name),

I’m writing to recommend (employee’s name) for the position of (job title) associate at (name of the company).

I’ve worked with (employee’s name) at (company name) in (city) for (number of years), and I’ve always been impressed by how well he/she can deal with customers and get along with his/her coworkers.

Since (number of years) he has worked for us, I have been his/her manager. He/She is happy to see customers and knows so much that he can always help anyone.

His/Her performance numbers have gone up every year, and we’re sad to lose him/her as an employee, but we understand and respect his/her decision. He/She gets along well with his/her coworkers, and they all like working with him/her. I think he/she’d make a (job title)

(Employee’s name) would be an excellent addition to your team.

If you have any questions, feel free to email me at (you email) or call my mobile phone at (contact number).

Sincerely,

Signature (hard copy letter)

(Your name)

Wrap Up

  • A manager will write a letter of recommendation for an employee who has left the company.
  • A recommendation letter is a way to help a candidate get a job in the future. It describes the candidate’s skills, qualities, and job performance.
  • A credible person should only write a recommendation letter.
  • A recommendation letter for an employee should sometimes be sent only if requested.
  • You can send your cover letter spontaneously when you apply for a job.