Writing a letter of recommendation and a reference letter may seem similar, but there are distinct differences between the two. A letter of recommendation is a detailed account of a person’s skills, achievements, and personality, while a reference letter is a brief statement confirming the person’s employment, character, and qualifications. In this article, we will explain the difference between the two and provide some examples to help you write the best letter possible.
Tips for Writing a Letter of Recommendation or Reference Letter
When writing a letter of recommendation or reference letter:
- Address the letter to the appropriate person.
- Explain your relationship to the person.
- Be honest and specific.
- Include relevant examples.
- Proofread and edit the letter.
Readers can find examples of both types of letters below and edit them as needed.
Examples of Letter of Recommendation Reference Difference
Letter of Recommendation for a Job
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Jane Smith for the position of Marketing Manager at your company. Jane has worked for me as a Marketing Assistant for the past two years, and during that time, she has consistently demonstrated her exceptional skills in marketing and communication.
Jane has a passion for creating innovative marketing strategies and executing them successfully. She is creative, organized, and has excellent communication skills. I have been impressed by her ability to work under pressure and meet challenging deadlines.
I believe that Jane would be an asset to your company and would excel in the position of Marketing Manager. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Reference Letter for an Apartment Rental
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to confirm that Jane Smith has been a tenant in one of my rental properties for the past two years. She has been a responsible and reliable tenant, always paying rent on time and keeping the apartment clean and well-maintained.
Jane is a trustworthy and respectful person who has never caused any problems during her tenancy. I highly recommend her as a tenant and I am confident that she will continue to be an excellent tenant wherever she goes.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School
Dear Graduate Admissions Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Jane Smith for admission to your graduate program. Jane was an exceptional student during her undergraduate studies at XYZ University, and she has continued to impress me with her academic and professional achievements since graduation.
Jane possesses a deep understanding of her field and has demonstrated her commitment to research and service in this area. She has successfully completed numerous research projects and presentations and has a remarkable ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with others.
I strongly believe that Jane has the skills, knowledge, and passion to contribute to your program and excel in her studies. I enthusiastically endorse her application for admission to your graduate program.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Reference Letter for a Volunteer Position
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to confirm that Jane Smith is a dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer who has been working with our organization for the past year. Jane has been an invaluable asset to our team and has made a significant contribution to our programs and services.
Jane is a reliable and responsible volunteer who always shows up on time and completes her tasks with great attention to detail. She has demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills and has been able to work effectively with a wide range of people.
I highly recommend Jane for any volunteer position and am confident that she will continue to make a positive impact wherever she goes.
Thank you for considering Jane’s application.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Letter of Recommendation for a Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am honored to write this letter in support of Jane Smith’s application for your scholarship program. Jane is an exceptional student who has excelled in her academic pursuits and has demonstrated her commitment to service and leadership.
Jane possesses a rare combination of intelligence, creativity, and hard work. She has consistently impressed me with her research and writing skills and has published several articles and essays in academic journals and magazines.
I strongly believe that Jane has the potential to make a significant impact in her field and in the world as a result of her academic achievements and her dedication to service. I wholeheartedly endorse her application for your scholarship program.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Reference Letter for a Professional License
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to verify that Jane Smith has been employed as a licensed Nurse Practitioner at our healthcare facility for the past three years. Jane has consistently demonstrated her clinical expertise, compassion, and dedication to patient care.
Jane is a highly skilled and knowledgeable practitioner who has a deep understanding of the nursing profession. She has been able to apply this knowledge to provide excellent care to our patients and has shown a remarkable ability to work collaboratively with other members of the healthcare team.
I highly recommend Jane for any professional license and am confident that she will continue to be an excellent practitioner wherever she goes.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Letter of Recommendation for a Teaching Position
Dear Hiring Committee,
I am writing to recommend Jane Smith for the position of English Teacher at your school. Jane has been working as a substitute teacher at our school for the past year, and during that time, she has consistently impressed us with her teaching skills and dedication to student learning.
Jane has a deep understanding of the English language and literature and has been able to share this knowledge with her students effectively. She has demonstrated excellent classroom management skills and has been able to create a positive and engaging learning environment for her students.
I am confident that Jane would be an asset to your school and would excel in the position of English Teacher. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a letter of recommendation and a reference letter?
A letter of recommendation is a detailed account of a person’s skills, achievements, and personality, usually written by someone who has worked closely with them in a professional or academic setting. A reference letter, on the other hand, is a brief statement confirming the person’s employment, character, and qualifications.
What should be included in a letter of recommendation?
A letter of recommendation should include the writer’s relationship to the person, an honest and specific account of the person’s skills and achievements, relevant examples, and a signature.
Who should write a letter of recommendation?
A letter of recommendation should ideally be written by someone who has worked closely with the person in a professional or academic setting and can provide a detailed and honest account of their skills and achievements.
What should be included in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include the writer’s relationship to the person, a brief statement confirming their employment, character, and qualifications, and a signature.
Can I use a letter of recommendation as a reference letter?
A letter of recommendation can be used as a reference letter, but it may not be as effective in confirming the person’s employment, character, and qualifications.
How long should a letter of recommendation or reference letter be?
A letter of recommendation or reference letter should be concise and to the point. It should be no longer than one page and should include all the necessary information to support the person’s application.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between a letter of recommendation and a reference letter can help you write the best letter possible. When writing a letter of recommendation or reference letter, make sure to address the appropriate person, explain your relationship to the person, be honest and specific, include relevant examples, and proofread and edit the letter.