GUIDELINES
- Write this letter when you cannot recommend a job candidate and you can't refuse to write a recommendation. Be careful while writing it so that the reader will get the message and you will be protected from a lawsuit. If it's possible, refuse to write a recommendation letter.
- Introduce the person you are endorsing and state that the candidate requested you to write a recommendation.
- State your business relationship (boss, supervisor, etc.) with the candidate. Tell the reader how long have you known him/her.
- Use restrained and moderate language while giving your recommendation. This tone will convey your reservations about the candidate indirectly. Mention positive qualities in the areas that don't matter. Don't say anything about the problem areas. Then you won't be held responsible for making degrading comments about the candidate.
- Highlight the fact that you wrote a recommendation on the candidate's request. Extend the offer to the reader to ask for more information. It will convey your message that you don't recommend the candidate.
SAMPLE LETTER
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]
[Letter Date]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]
[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-
Dear [Recipients Name],
I can vouch for Eve Sandler's application to your company as a pre-school teacher. I was a professor at the University where she took up bachelor's degree in elementary education, and she was under me in some of her subjects. I can see that she has the drive to learn and the perseverance to work at something that she wants to excel on. She is gentle-mannered, patient and very accommodating, traits that are essential when dealing with kids. If you have more questions about Ms. Sandler, feel free to contact me at 3451234.
Sincerely,
[Senders Name]
[Senders Title] -Optional-
[Enclosures: number] - Optional -
cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -
Sample letter of weak recommendation for pre-school teacher.
Further things to consider when writing recommendation letters to schools
Recommendation Letters
Recommendation letters are letters written to provide information about your work or academic capabilities. These letters are written by your previous employers, colleagues, teachers, or any other person who can recommend your work or academic performance. The main objective of recommendation letters is to verify the aptitude, skills, and achievements of the person being recommended. They discuss the qualities and capabilities that make you the best fit for a given position or school program. Usually, these letters are sent to hiring managers or admissions officers to facilitate interviews or introduction of new candidates.
Writing recommendation letters is a huge responsibility that should be taken seriously. Therefore, before you agree to the task, you need to make sure that you understand what the letter will be used for and what information is expected from you. Begin by letting the recipient know that this is a recommendation letter. Explain how you know the candidate and how long you have been in a relationship with him/her. Give an evaluation of the candidate's skills and accomplishments and explain why he/she will be effective and productive. If necessary, give a personal testimony. End by reiterating your recommendation of the candidate and sign your name.
Letters to Schools
Letters to schools are letters written to institutions designed to provide learning environment and spaces to pupils and students. There are many times when you may feel the need to write to a school administration. Maybe you want to recommend a student or employee or want to apply for an academic program. Perhaps your child has a disability, and you want to make sure that he/she is receiving special education services. Whatever the issue, putting your thoughts in writing avoids confusion since it provides you and the recipient with a record of your request. It is, therefore, crucial to keep a copy of any letter you send.
All letters to schools must use the standard business letter style. Start your letter with the proper address and salutation. Introduce yourself and explain the reason for your letter clearly and concisely. Depending on the content of your letter, provide any documentation that gives the recipient reference to the case or clarifies your concerns. Keep the tone polite, respectful, and professional. Close by thanking the recipient for his/her time and with a note of anticipation of positive feedback. Sign off and proofread the final draft before sending it.
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