When it comes to job applications, two terms often come up: letter of recommendation and reference. Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they are actually quite different. In this article, we will discuss the differences between these two terms, and provide some examples of each. Readers can find examples and edit them as needed to create their own letters.
A letter of recommendation is a formal document that is written by someone who knows the applicant personally or professionally. This letter typically includes information about the applicant’s skills, experience, and accomplishments, and is meant to highlight their strengths and abilities. Letters of recommendation are usually required for graduate school applications, scholarship applications, and job applications.
On the other hand, a reference is simply a person who can vouch for the applicant’s character and work ethic. This person may be a former employer, coworker, or supervisor, and is typically contacted by the potential employer as part of the hiring process. References are less formal than letters of recommendation, and do not require a written document.
Tips
To create a strong letter of recommendation or reference, follow these tips:
Letter of Recommendation Tips
A strong letter of recommendation should:
- Be written by someone who knows the applicant well.
- Include specific examples of the applicant’s skills and accomplishments.
- Highlight the applicant’s strengths and abilities.
- Be well-written and free of errors.
- Be tailored to the specific job or school application.
Reference Tips
A strong reference should:
- Be a person who knows the applicant well.
- Be able to speak to the applicant’s character and work ethic.
- Be available to answer questions from the potential employer.
- Be informed ahead of time about the job the applicant is applying for.
Examples
Letter of Recommendation for Graduate School
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to highly recommend Jane Smith for admission to your graduate program in psychology. Jane was a student in my undergraduate psychology course, and I have had the pleasure of getting to know her well over the past two years.
Jane is an exceptionally talented student with a passion for psychology. She has demonstrated a keen understanding of the subject matter in my course, and has consistently produced outstanding work. In particular, her research paper on the effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health was one of the best I have ever read from an undergraduate student.
In addition to her academic achievements, Jane is a kind and empathetic person who is always willing to help others. She is a natural leader, and has served as the president of our psychology club for the past year.
I have no doubt that Jane will excel in your graduate program and go on to make significant contributions in the field of psychology. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Professor John Doe
Reference for Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to highly recommend John Smith for the position of marketing manager at your company. John worked for me as a marketing coordinator for two years, and I can say without hesitation that he is one of the most talented and hardworking employees I have ever had.
John was responsible for developing and executing our company’s marketing strategy, and he consistently exceeded our expectations. He is a creative thinker with a proven track record of success, and he has the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining a high level of quality.
In addition to his skills and accomplishments, John is a pleasure to work with. He is a team player who is always willing to go above and beyond to help his colleagues, and he has a positive attitude that is contagious.
I highly recommend John for the position of marketing manager. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
VP of Marketing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a letter of recommendation and a reference?
A letter of recommendation is a formal document that is written by someone who knows the applicant personally or professionally, and is meant to highlight their strengths and abilities. A reference is simply a person who can vouch for the applicant’s character and work ethic.
How do I request a letter of recommendation?
You should request a letter of recommendation from someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities. Be sure to ask them in a timely manner, provide them with all the necessary information about the application, and thank them for their time and effort.
Can I use the same letter of recommendation for multiple applications?
You can use the same letter of recommendation for multiple applications, but it is generally better to tailor the letter to the specific application whenever possible. This shows that you have put in the effort to make your application stand out.
How many references should I provide for a job application?
It is usually best to provide three to five references for a job application. These should be people who know you well and can speak to your character and work ethic.
What should I do if I don’t have any professional references?
If you don’t have any professional references, you can use personal references such as teachers, coaches, or community leaders. You can also highlight any relevant volunteer or extracurricular activities on your resume.
Conclusion
Letters of recommendation and references are both important parts of the job application process. Understanding the differences between these two terms, and following the tips and examples provided, can help you create strong letters that will impress potential employers and admissions committees.