This guide will provide you with a comprehensive framework for creating a professional letter of Recommendation (LOR) for a friend. While personal relationships can add a unique layer to your recommendation, maintaining a formal and professional tone is crucial. This template will help you structure your letter effectively, ensuring it effectively conveys your friend’s strengths and qualifications.
1. Heading and Salutation
Your Contact Information: Begin with your full name, title (if applicable), professional affiliation, and contact details (phone number and email address). This establishes your credibility and allows the recipient to easily reach you for verification or clarification.
Date: Include the full date of writing the letter.
Recipient Information: Address the letter to the specific individual or committee responsible for reviewing the application (e.g., “Admissions Committee,” “Hiring Manager”). If possible, obtain the name and title of the recipient for a more personalized touch.
Salutation: Use a formal salutation such as “Dear [Recipient Name],” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
2. Opening Paragraph
Context: Start by clearly stating your relationship with the applicant (e.g., “I have known [Friend’s Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., friend, mentor, colleague]”).
Purpose: Briefly state the purpose of your letter. For example: “I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Friend’s Name] for [Position/Program].”
Application: Briefly mention the specific application or opportunity for which you are recommending your friend.
3. Academic/Professional Skills and Achievements
Letter of Recommendation for a Friend and Colleague in Google Docs
Image Source: template.net
Academic Performance: If applicable, highlight your friend’s academic achievements, such as:
GPA: If you have firsthand knowledge of their academic performance, you can mention their GPA or any relevant academic honors or awards.
Relevant coursework: Mention specific coursework that demonstrates relevant skills and knowledge.
Research experience: If they have conducted research, mention their involvement and any publications or presentations resulting from their work.
Professional Skills:
Work ethic: Emphasize your friend’s work ethic, such as their dedication, punctuality, and ability to meet deadlines.
Technical skills: Highlight any relevant technical skills, such as proficiency in specific software, programming languages, or tools.
Interpersonal skills: Describe their interpersonal skills, such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
Relevant experience: Detail any relevant work experience, internships, or volunteer activities. Provide specific examples of their contributions and achievements.
4. Personal Qualities and Character
Positive attributes: Describe your friend’s positive personal qualities, such as:
Integrity: Emphasize their honesty, ethical conduct, and strong moral character.
Maturity: Highlight their maturity, responsibility, and ability to handle challenges effectively.
Motivation: Describe their strong work ethic, self-motivation, and eagerness to learn and grow.
Adaptability: Emphasize their ability to adapt to new situations, learn quickly, and thrive in dynamic environments.
Examples: Support your claims with specific anecdotes or examples that illustrate these qualities. For instance, you could describe a challenging situation where your friend demonstrated resilience, teamwork, or leadership.
5. Future Potential
Long-term goals: Briefly mention your friend’s long-term career goals or academic aspirations.
Suitability: Explain how their skills, experience, and personal qualities make them a strong candidate for the position or program they are applying for.
Confidence: Express your confidence in their ability to succeed in their future endeavors.
6. Closing Paragraph
Letter of Recommendation for a Friend and Colleague in Google Docs
Image Source: template.net
Reiterate support: Reiterate your enthusiastic support for your friend’s application.
Availability: Offer your availability to provide further information or answer any questions the recipient may have.
Closing: End with a formal closing, such as “Sincerely,” or “Best regards.”
Your Signature: Include your handwritten signature.
Typed Name: Type your full name below your signature.
Your Title (optional): Include your professional title (if applicable).
Design Considerations
Professional Format: Use a professional font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
Spacing: Use single-spaced lines within paragraphs and double-spaced lines between paragraphs.
Margins: Maintain standard margins (approximately 1 inch on all sides).
Letterhead (Optional): If you have professional letterhead, include it at the top of the page.
Clean and Concise: Keep the letter concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly flowery language.
By following this template and carefully considering the design elements, you can craft a compelling and effective Letter of Recommendation that effectively showcases your friend’s strengths and increases their chances of success.
Letter of Recommendation for a Friend and Colleague in Google Docs
