Korean Job Discussion Forums

[matthews_world]

I'm deciding how to write a letter of reference I've been asked to give.

Any advice on what to include/not include? What's kosher these days?

I've searched the internet to no avail.

[Real Reality]

Tips for Writing a Letter of Reference. by Ralph Brigham
http://www.jobweb.com/Resources/Library/correspondence_for_the_job/Tips_for_Writing_a_221_01.htm

Sample Faculty Reference Letter
http://www.naceweb.org/about/public/formfacref.htm

How to Write a Perfect Reference Letter/Letter of Reference
http://www.writeexpress.com/reference-letter.html

Letter of Reference
http://learners.englishclub.com/business-english/correspondence-reference.htm

http://www.writinghelp-central.com/reference-letter.html

http://www.abusinessresource.com/Business_Resources/Additional_Resources/Business_Letters_and_Forms/Recommendation_Letter/

[fondasoape]

1. Be truthful.
2. Explain clearly your relationship with the applicant.
3. Explain clearly your experience with the applicant, including dates.
4. Send the letter directly to the institution requiring the letter. Do not give the letter to the applicant, but explain to them that you will be more than happy to mail copies for them any time, on request.

[Zark]

It depends on who you are writing it for. If it is someone that you really like and want to do a good job for, you'd write it differently than for a passing through co-worker.

There are lots of formulas - most of which read like mechanical voices and almost all cover the same ground.

I think (my opinion only) that a good reference is more personal. Of course, spend just a little time on what a good job the person does - but then spend more time on why this person is exceptional. What is it about them that sets them apart from the herd (and that is what a reference is all about anyway - isn't it?).

Every reference says the candidate does this and that well. Yawnnnnnn. That they add "value" to the program. Yawwnnn. That they increased production and profits X%. Yada yada yada . . . Same cr*p, different day.

Give the potential employer a look at the person's personality, motivation, life experience - and why you PERSONALLY like them. It is EXPECTED that every candidate knows how to do the job well - say that quickly then move on. Demonstrate that this person is a human - not just a skilled working robot.

One other issue: Think carefully about why the current position is open and what probably p*ssed off the employer about the previous person/people. Put youself in their head and make sure they know this person is different from the problem person perceding them.

Your letter(s) - need to be like your interviews. They need to cull this person from herd.

Put in the letter why this person is a delight to work with - how the students respond differently to this person - if they seek the advice and guidance of the individual - if they gain confidence and motivation from his/her methods/approach, if you have learned from this person, if they share their skills and add warmth to the workplace/classroom, etc.

Anyway, you get the idea - personally, I think you can't put it into a formula - each person is so different - and your letters need to be so different for each person.

Just my opinion - and I've read hundreds of the lousy things.

[thorin]

I thought everyone wrote their own recommendations.

[Zark]

Thinking people do - because most people can't write worth cr*p.

And, most people that you ask for a reference from will appreciate it - as writing a good one requires a lot of time and thought. I can't think of a good one that I have ever spent less than an hour on (usually more).

Good point Thorin.