Letter of recommendation overview

Three types of recommendation letters Letters of recommendation differ based on who writes them and for what purpose. There are three basic types. Type of letter From Usual purpose Employment recommendation Employer Getting a job Academic recommendation Teacher, professor Getting into college or graduate school, receiving a scholarship or fellowship Character reference Friend, relative Getting a job, winning an award, child adoption, court hearing, etc. These distinctions are not carved in stone. Professors often write letters aimed at helping students secure employment. Employers often write letters to help current or former employees gain admission to academic programs.

Employment recommendations Whether you are laid off or leave your job on your own accord a letter of recommendation from your employer can be a valuable tool for finding a new job. Such a letter is often preferable to listing your supervisor and his or her phone number on your resume. A reference letter Provides an organized analysis of your attributes and abilities Is a "fresh when written" appraisal not clouded by time Creates an unchanging assessment Saves future employers the effort of interviewing your former supervisor Saves your former supervisor the time and trouble of being interviewed Importantly, obtaining a written letter also gives you insight into how your former employer perceives you-- on balance either favorably or unfavorably. With this information in hand you can spotlight a good reference or downplay a poor one.

Of course, if you must list a former employer as a reference and worry that he or she might contradict your glowing letter when called on the phone, we suggest finding out before you end up apologizing for an awkward disparity.

Academic recommendations Letters of recommendation are required for acceptance to the vast majority of both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Often applicants must provide three or more letters. While requirements differ by institution, program and concentration, generally speaking successful academic recommendations should Provide testimony to your aptitude, curiosity and industriousness Demonstrate your maturity and seriousness of purpose Speak to your leadership ability Paint you as "well rounded" Compliment your character Include other pertinent information about you-- things not readily apparent from admission test scores or transcripts

Character references Character reference letters are a special category of recommendation because they are usually written by friends, neighbors or relatives. These letters meet a variety of non-employment and non-academic related needs. Everything from gaining memberships and winning awards to child custody and adoptions. Character reference letters can also be useful in job seeking.