12+ Sample Recommendation Letter Destroys
Introduction
A recommendation letter is a powerful tool that can make or break an individual’s chances of securing a job, admission to an academic program, or a business opportunity. However, a poorly written recommendation letter can have the opposite effect, potentially destroying the very opportunities it was intended to support. This article provides 12 sample recommendation letters that demonstrate common pitfalls to avoid when writing such letters.
1. The Vague Recommendation
John Doe
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
February 1, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Jane Smith. She worked at my company for a few years. She did some work. I think she is okay. Please consider her for your position.
Sincerely,
John Doe
2. The Overly Negative Recommendation
Jane Smith
456 Elm Street
Othertown, NY 67890
March 15, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Bob Johnson. He was a difficult employee who often missed deadlines and had poor communication skills. However, I guess he might be okay for your team if you can handle the challenges.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
3. The Unprofessional Recommendation
Bob Johnson
789 Oak Street
Smallville, TX 34567
April 2, 2023
Hey There,
I’m writing to recommend Alice Williams. She’s super cool and did some stuff at our company. I think she’s awesome, but I’m not really sure about the details. Anyway, give her a shot!
Cheers,
Bob Johnson
4. The Too Casual Recommendation
Alice Williams
321 Pine Street
Bigcity, FL 45678
May 10, 2023
Hi Team,
I’m writing to recommend Charlie Davis. He’s a great guy, always fun to be around. We had some good times at the office. I’m sure he’ll fit right in with your team.
Best,
Alice Williams
5. The Unspecific Recommendation
Charlie Davis
654 Maple Street
Hometown, IL 54321
June 5, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend David Lee. He worked at our company for several years. He did his job. I think he is competent enough for your needs.
Sincerely,
Charlie Davis
6. The Exaggerated Recommendation
David Lee
987 Birch Street
Smalltown, OH 76543
July 20, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Emily White. She is the best employee I have ever had. She is perfect in every way and will undoubtedly exceed all your expectations. You would be lucky to have her.
Sincerely,
David Lee
7. The Late Recommendation
Emily White
321 Cedar Street
Othertown, MI 65432
August 1, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Frank Brown. I know this is last minute, but I just remembered to write this letter. He worked here for a while and did okay, I guess.
Sincerely,
Emily White
8. The Unverified Recommendation
Frank Brown
456 Walnut Street
Anytown, PA 54321
September 10, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Gina Green. I didn’t actually work with her, but I heard she’s pretty good. I’m sure she’ll do fine for you.
Sincerely,
Frank Brown
9. The Overly Personal Recommendation
Gina Green
789 Cherry Street
Hometown, GA 98765
October 15, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Helen Blue. She’s like a sister to me. We had so much fun together at the office. I’m sure she’ll bring the same energy to your team.
Sincerely,
Gina Green
10. The Unedited Recommendation
Helen Blue
654 Apple Street
Bigcity, NC 43210
November 1, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Ian Red. He worked here for a few years. I think he did some good work, but I’m not really sure. Oh well, I guess this is okay.
Sincerely,
Helen Blue
11. The Unprofessional Tone Recommendation
Ian Red
321 Orange Street
Smalltown, SC 76543
December 5, 2023
Hey Guys,
I’m writing to recommend Julia Yellow. She’s a total rockstar! I don’t know what we’d do without her. You guys would be lucky to have her on your team. She’s the best!
Cheers,
Ian Red
12. The Unspecific Job Duties Recommendation
Julia Yellow
987 Grape Street
Othertown, VA 54321
January 10, 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Kevin Pink. He did some work at our company. He showed up most days and did stuff. I think he is a nice guy.
Sincerely,
Julia Yellow
Conclusion
A recommendation letter can be a powerful tool, but it can also destroy opportunities if not written carefully. The examples above illustrate common pitfalls to avoid when writing a recommendation letter. By being specific, professional, and thoughtful, you can create a letter that truly supports the individual you are recommending.