As a project manager, you may be asked to provide a letter of recommendation for a colleague, employee, or vendor. This letter can be a valuable tool in helping the recipient achieve their goals, whether it’s securing a new job, getting a promotion, or winning a contract. In this article, we’ll provide tips for writing an effective project manager letter of recommendation, along with seven examples you can use as a starting point.
Tips for Writing a Project Manager Letter of Recommendation
When writing a project manager letter of recommendation, there are several key elements to keep in mind:
1. Start with a Title
Before you begin writing your letter, think about the purpose of the recommendation and what qualities you want to highlight. This will help you create a title that captures the essence of your recommendation.
2. Introduce Yourself and Your Relationship to the Recipient
Begin your letter with a brief introduction that includes your name, job title, and relationship to the recipient. This will help establish your credibility and provide context for the rest of the letter.
3. Explain Why You’re Recommending the Recipient
In the body of your letter, explain why you’re recommending the recipient and what makes them a strong candidate. Provide specific examples of their skills, accomplishments, and character traits that demonstrate their value as a project manager.
4. Offer Examples of the Recipient’s Work
To further support your recommendation, offer examples of the recipient’s work that showcase their abilities and achievements. This could include project plans, reports, presentations, or other materials that demonstrate their skills and expertise.
5. Customize the Letter to the Recipient’s Needs
Remember that your letter should be tailored to the recipient’s needs and goals. Take the time to understand what they’re looking for and what qualities they value in a project manager, and use that information to shape your recommendation.
6. Close with a Complimentary Statement and Your Contact Information
Wrap up your letter with a complimentary statement that reaffirms your recommendation and offers your contact information in case the recipient has any further questions.
Seven Examples of Project Manager Letter of Recommendation
For a Project Manager Applying for a New Job
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am pleased to recommend [Name] for the position of project manager at your organization. I had the pleasure of working with [Name] for three years at [Company], where they consistently demonstrated exceptional project management skills and a deep commitment to delivering high-quality results.
[Name] was responsible for overseeing a range of complex projects during their time at [Company], including [Project 1], [Project 2], and [Project 3]. In each case, they proved themselves to be a skilled leader who was able to manage teams effectively, communicate clearly, and stay focused on achieving the project goals.
I have no doubt that [Name] would be a valuable addition to your team, and I strongly recommend them for the position of project manager. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
For a Project Manager Seeking a Promotion
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Name] for the position of [New Position] within our organization. As [Name]’s supervisor for the past two years, I have been consistently impressed by their leadership skills, strategic thinking, and commitment to excellence.
[Name] has been instrumental in the success of several key projects during their time at [Company], including [Project 1], [Project 2], and [Project 3]. In each case, they demonstrated a keen ability to manage teams effectively, develop creative solutions to complex problems, and stay focused on achieving the project goals.
Based on their exceptional performance as a project manager, I have no doubt that [Name] has the skills and experience necessary to excel in the role of [New Position]. I strongly recommend them for this promotion and look forward to seeing them continue to grow and contribute to our organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
For a Project Manager Nominated for an Industry Award
Dear [Award Committee Member],
I am thrilled to recommend [Name] for the [Industry Award] in recognition of their outstanding achievements as a project manager. I had the pleasure of working with [Name] for five years at [Company], where they consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to delivering high-quality results.
[Name]’s contributions to [Company] have been nothing short of exceptional. They have successfully overseen a range of complex projects during their time with us, including [Project 1], [Project 2], and [Project 3], all of which were completed on time and within budget.
I strongly believe that [Name] is deserving of this industry award and I am confident that their contributions to the field of project management will continue to make a positive impact in the years to come. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
For a Project Manager Seeking a Contract Renewal
Dear [Client’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Name] for the renewal of their contract as a project manager with your organization. As [Name]’s supervisor for the past year, I have been consistently impressed by their professionalism, project management skills, and commitment to delivering high-quality results.
During their time with your organization, [Name] has been responsible for overseeing several key projects, including [Project 1], [Project 2], and [Project 3]. In each case, they demonstrated a keen ability to manage teams effectively, communicate clearly, and stay focused on achieving the project goals.
Based on their exceptional performance as a project manager, I have no doubt that [Name] would be a valuable asset to your organization and I strongly recommend the renewal of their contract. Please let me know if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
For a Project Manager Seeking a Partnership
Dear [Partner’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a potential partner for your organization. As [Name]’s supervisor for the past three years, I have been consistently impressed by their leadership skills, strategic thinking, and commitment to excellence.
[Name] has been instrumental in the success of several key projects during their time at [Company], including [Project 1], [Project 2], and [Project 3]. In each case, they demonstrated a keen ability to manage teams effectively, develop creative solutions to complex problems, and stay focused on achieving the project goals.
Based on their exceptional performance as a project manager, I believe that [Name] would be a valuable partner for your organization. Their skills and experience in project management would be a valuable asset to any team, and I strongly recommend that you consider them for a partnership opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
For a Project Manager Seeking an Endorsement
Dear [Endorser’s Name],
I am writing to request an endorsement for [Name] as a project manager. I had the pleasure of working with [Name] for two years at [Company], where they consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to delivering high-quality results.
[Name] was responsible for overseeing a range of complex projects during their time at [Company], including [Project 1], [Project 2], and [Project 3]. In each case, they proved themselves to be a skilled leader who was able to manage teams effectively, communicate clearly, and stay focused on achieving the project goals.
Based on their exceptional performance as a project manager, I believe that [Name] is deserving of an endorsement from someone with your expertise and experience in the field. I strongly recommend [Name] for your support and look forward to seeing them continue to excel in their career.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
For a Project Manager Seeking a Recommendation
Dear [Recommendation Writer’s Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for [Name] in their pursuit of a new opportunity as a project manager. As their supervisor for the past two years, I have been consistently impressed by [Name]’s leadership skills, strategic thinking, and commitment to excellence.
[Name] has been instrumental in the success of several key projects during their time with our organization, including [Project 1], [Project 2], and [Project 3]. In each case, they demonstrated a keen ability to manage teams effectively, develop creative solutions to complex problems, and stay focused on achieving the project goals.
Based on their exceptional performance as a project manager, I believe that [Name] would be a valuable asset to any organization. I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation on [Name]’s behalf, and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow and succeed in their career.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start a project manager letter of recommendation?
Begin your letter with a brief introduction that includes your name, job title, and relationship to the recipient. This will help establish your credibility and provide context for the rest of the letter.
What should I include in the body of the letter?
In the body of your letter, explain why you’re recommending the recipient and what makes them a strong candidate. Provide specific examples of their skills, accomplishments, and character traits that demonstrate their value as a project manager.
How long should my letter of recommendation be?
Your letter of recommendation should be no more than one page in length, or roughly 300 words.
Should I customize my letter to the recipient’s needs?
Yes, your letter should be tailored to the recipient’s needs and goals. Take the time to understand what they’re looking for and what qualities they value in a project manager, and use that information to shape your recommendation.
What should I include in the complimentary close?
Wrap up your letter with a complimentary statement that reaffirms your recommendation and offers your contact information in case the recipient has any further questions.
Can I use these examples as a starting point for my own letter?
Yes, you can find examples of project manager letters of recommendation above and edit them as needed to fit your own situation.
In conclusion, writing a project manager letter of recommendation is an opportunity to showcase the strengths and accomplishments of a talented project manager. By following these tips and using these examples as a starting point, you can create a compelling letter that will help your colleague, employee, or vendor achieve their career goals.