Guidelines for Writing Reference Letters
The following material was prepared by The Career Center, Messiah College. If you have specific questions, please contact Dwayne Keiffer.
HELPFUL HINTS FOR WRITING LETTERS OF REFERENCE
In today 's competitive market, job and graduate school applicants are asked to produce credentials which will significantly influence the selection process. A reference letter can be one of the most effective (or damaging) sources of evaluation. Because it is so highly regarded, the reference letter should be written with care and with significant knowledge of the person recommended. It is not an easy letter to write. Therefore, the following are suggestions for evaluators to consider.
- When approached about writing a reference letter, consider whether you know the person well enough to evaluate her/his qualifications. If your endorsement would be weak, it is better to decline than write general comments.
- Ask for the person 's resume and/or list of activities and accomplishments.
- Discuss the person 's objective with her/him, so that your letter can reflect their articulated goals.
- TYPE ALL LETTERS OF REFERENCE. The appearance of the letter is a reflection on both the candidate and you as the author. Appearance is often as critical as the content.
- Begin with the candidate 's name and her/his request for a general or targeted recommendation letter. (See samples.)
- Focus on your affiliation/relationship with the candidate, giving specific examples of relevant contacts, demonstrated skills and performance, and personal attributes.
- Avoid use of characteristics which may be the basis of discrimination, such as: race, color, nationality, gender, religion, age, appearance, disability, marital status, or political viewpoint.
- Avoid overused and general words such as: nice, good, average, reasonable, decent, fairly, satisfactory. More effective words may be: articulate, efficient , imaginative, assertive, dependable, expressive, intelligent, innovative, cooperative, observant, creative, significant
The following list of attributes, compiled by the National Association of Colleges & Employers, has been cited by employers as important in the selection process:
- ability to communicate (oral and written); written communication ranges from full length research reports to effectiveness with e-mail and short memos
- demonstrated intelligence or proficiency in the field of study
- interpersonal skills and self-confidence
- demonstrated teamwork abilities
- initiative and responsibility
- demonstrated leadership
- high energy level
- imagination and creativity
- flexibility
- computer knowledge
- related experiential learning/internship
- ability to handle conflict
- motivation or goal achievement
- problem-solving/decision-making ability
Sample of a "GENERAL" Recommendation
Sample of a "TARGETED" Recommendation
