University: Lecturer: Course: Date: Components of an effective recommendation letter Abstract A recommendation letter is an appraisal tool for people to secure employment or entry to institutions. It gives information about a candidate and the former employee or a close associate to the candidate. It assists in provision of evidence about a candidates credibility, competence, personality, suitability and the relationship between the writer and the candidate. It is used by employers to find suitable candidates for available positions. Outline of items Item Page Number Cover page 1 Abstract.2 Out line of items3 Introduction…4 Credibility and competence…4 Relationship between writer and candidate..4 Personality and suitability.5 Conclusion …5 Sources cited 6 Introduction Recommendation letters assist people to secure employment positions or admissions in institutions. Companies and institutions need to know who they are working with, their performance and credibility. It provides information about the former employer or a close associate who have been involved with the candidate.
It acts as a credible evidence of the candidates experience and shows his or her skills and capabilities (Melvin, 2009) Credibility and competence An effective recommendation letter shows the credibility and competence of the candidate. This gives an overview of the candidates expertise in terms of how experienced he or she is. It explains the candidates relevance to the task at hand. It also gives background information about the candidates recommendation (Box free complex 2009).
NVQ and Competence – Essay
In this supporting paper to the presentation, the purpose, the nature and the advantages and disadvantages of NVQ will be stated and analysed; finishing with a conclusion as to whether to follow a NVQ or not. The definition of an NVQ is “A statement of competence clearly relevant to work and intended to facilitate entry into, or progression in, employment and further learning, issued to an ...
The relationship between the writer and the candidate The letter of recommendation should explain the relationship that the writer has had with the candidate. It should indicate whether the candidate is a co-worker, supervisor, student etc. The writer should clearly state how long the candidate has been in the position and notable achievements within that time.
The writer should also give his personal opinion on the benefits he has had working with the candidate and the benefits the organization or institution has had during the tenure (Box free complex 2009).
Personality and suitability The letter should give a preview of the candidates overall personality and suitability to the new position. It should show how he or she relates with others. It should give evidence of personal traits such as time management and integrity. Personal features that are likely to be observed such as a sense of humor should also be highlighted in the recommendation letter. And finally, it should explain why the writer thinks that the candidate will fit in the job or the institution (Ira, 2005).
Conclusion The letter of recommendation is an appraisal tool that gives analysis, attributes, and abilities of a person.
It acts as a measure of a persons capability in a job or an institution. Its contents are a basis for decision-making by employers or administrations in finding correct candidates for available positions. Sources cited Box free complex, (2009).
Letter of Recommendation Guide. Retrieved on 21st July 2009 from http://www.boxfreeconcepts.com/reco/ Melvin Luthy, (2009).
Recommendation Letter Tips, Tricks, and Advice.
Retrieved on 21st July 2009 from http://www.writeexpress.com/recommendation-letters .html Ira Mellman, (2005).
How to write an effective recommendation letter. Retrieved on 21st July 2009 from http://www.ascb.org/files/0505wicb.pdf.
