Guide to Writing a Recommendation

Listed below are guidelines for writing letters of reference.  Readers of reference letters look for the following:

  • the relationship between the referee and the candidate

  • specific knowledge of the candidate's subject matter background

  • the candidate's duties in his/her current position

  • how well the candidate performs(ed) his/her duties

  • interpersonal relationship abilities

  • the candidate's initiative

  • specific instances of excellent performance documented

  • concerns about the candidate's skills, abilities, knowledge, or judgement

  • positive remarks similar to those written by other referees for the candidate

  • personality traits described

  • student-professor or superior-subordinate relations