Recommendation For [Friend’s Name] – A Casual Approach

Introduction

So, you need to write a recommendation for someone? No problem! This guide will help you craft a strong and impactful recommendation in a casual, easy-to-read style. We’ll cover the essentials, from the basic structure to tips for writing a truly compelling letter.

Who Needs a Recommendation?

Job Seekers: Land that dream job with a glowing recommendation from a past employer or supervisor.

College Applicants: Boost your chances of acceptance with a letter of recommendation from a teacher or professor.

Graduate School Applicants: Convince the admissions committee that you’re a top candidate with a strong recommendation from a research advisor.

Scholarship Applicants: Increase your chances of securing funding with a supportive recommendation from a mentor.

The Casual Approach

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Forget stuffy, formal jargon! A casual tone can be just as effective, especially when the recipient is familiar with the person being recommended. Think of it as a conversation you’d have with a friend – honest, genuine, and easy to understand.

Key Elements of a Casual Recommendation

1. Start with a Warm Opening: Begin with a friendly greeting and a brief statement about your relationship with the individual. For example:

“Hey [Name], I’m happy to write a letter of recommendation for [Person’s Name]. I’ve had the pleasure of working with them as their [Your Title] at [Company Name] for the past [Number] years.”

2. Highlight Key Skills and Abilities: Focus on the skills and qualities that make this person stand out. Use specific examples to illustrate your points. For example:

“Communication: [Person’s Name] is an excellent communicator. They consistently delivered clear and concise presentations to clients, ensuring everyone was on the same page. I was always impressed by their ability to explain complex technical concepts in a way that anyone could understand.”

“Problem-Solving: During a recent project, we encountered a significant roadblock. [Person’s Name] took the initiative to investigate the issue, identify the root cause, and develop a creative solution that saved the company both time and money.”

“Teamwork: [Person’s Name] is a true team player. They actively participate in group discussions, offering valuable insights and always willing to lend a helping hand to colleagues.”

3. Emphasize Their Character: Go beyond just skills and highlight their positive personality traits. For example:

“Dedication: [Person’s Name] is incredibly dedicated to their work. They consistently go the extra mile to ensure projects are completed on time and to the highest standards.”

“Positive Attitude: [Person’s Name] always maintains a positive and enthusiastic attitude, even in challenging situations. Their optimism is contagious and helps to motivate those around them.”

“Integrity: [Person’s Name] is a person of high integrity. They are honest, trustworthy, and always act ethically in all their dealings.”

4. Offer a Strong Closing Statement: End with a confident and enthusiastic recommendation. For example:

“I highly recommend [Person’s Name] for [Position/Program]. They are a talented and dedicated individual with the skills and drive to succeed. I am confident that they will be a valuable asset to any organization.”

“Without hesitation, I recommend [Person’s Name] for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.”

5. Proofread Carefully: Before sending, carefully proofread your letter for any grammatical errors or typos. A polished letter reflects well on both you and the person you are recommending.

Tips for Writing in a Casual Tone

Use contractions: For example, “I’ve” instead of “I have.”

Vary your sentence structure: Avoid overly long or complex sentences.

Use personal pronouns: “I,” “you,” “they.”

Focus on clarity and conciseness: Get your point across in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner.

Example of a Casual Recommendation

> “Hey [Name], I’m happy to write a letter of recommendation for [Person’s Name]. I’ve had the pleasure of working with them as their [Your Title] at [Company Name] for the past [Number] years.
>
> [Person’s Name] is an excellent communicator. They consistently delivered clear and concise presentations to clients, ensuring everyone was on the same page. I was always impressed by their ability to explain complex technical concepts in a way that anyone could understand.
>
> During a recent project, we encountered a significant roadblock. [Person’s Name] took the initiative to investigate the issue, identify the root cause, and develop a creative solution that saved the company both time and money.
>
> [Person’s Name] is a true team player. They actively participate in group discussions, offering valuable insights and always willing to lend a helping hand to colleagues.
>
> I highly recommend [Person’s Name] for [Position/Program]. They are a talented and dedicated individual with the skills and drive to succeed. I am confident that they will be a valuable asset to any organization.”

Conclusion

Writing a strong recommendation doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these tips and adopting a casual, conversational tone, you can create a letter that effectively highlights the strengths and achievements of the person you are recommending.

FAQs

How long should a casual recommendation letter be?

A casual recommendation letter can typically range from one to two pages. However, the most important thing is to be concise and get your point across effectively.

Can I use humor in a casual recommendation?

Yes, using a touch of humor can make your recommendation more engaging and memorable. However, ensure that the humor is appropriate and relevant to the context.

What if I don’t have many specific examples to share?

If you’re struggling to come up with specific examples, try to observe the person you are recommending in their daily work or academic activities. Pay attention to their interactions with others, their problem-solving skills, and their overall contributions.

Should I always get the person’s permission before writing a recommendation?

Yes, it’s always a good practice to get the person’s permission before writing a recommendation for them. This shows respect for their privacy and allows them to review the letter before it is submitted.

What if I have concerns about the person I’m recommending?

If you have any concerns about the person you are recommending, it’s best to decline the request. It’s important to be honest and ethical in your recommendations.

Recommendation Sample