Free Recommendation Letter Templates (Australia)
Here's how to write an effective recommendation letter, making sure it puts the applicant’s best foot forward.
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
If a contact asks you for a recommendation letter, it can be hard to know where to start and exactly what needs to be included in it.
Use this guide to learn some top tips for writing a recommendation letter. Plus, some common pitfalls to avoid.
What is a recommendation letter?
A recommendation letter is used mostly by job applicants in order to demonstrate the key advantages or experience they have gained in a previous job. Recommendation letters typically make up part of a job application. However, they can be used when applying for scholarships, volunteering and government grants among other things.
Why is a good recommendation letter so important?
Recommendation letters may be more sought after than any other type of written document. According to WritingHelpCentral.com, the online writing site, around half of their 1.2 million website visitors have sought help with such letters. The reason is clear: it's very important to the person who's asked you. After all, what you write could be the difference between a major promotion or a highly-prized scholarship.
So, it makes sense to be thoughtful when writing the letter. A good recommendation letter could really help somebody's life. It pays to get it right.
Recommendation letter vs. reference letter
You'll find that many universities and businesses use 'recommendation letter' and 'reference letter' interchangeably. But there are some subtle differences between the two terms. Recommendation letters tend to be specifically requested by an organisation. The level of detail needed is typically greater and it's important to show the contributions made by the individual.
On the other hand, reference letters tend to be more general. It may be more appropriate for the writer to describe things such as the person's attitude to work, how well they contribute as part of a team and whether they show leadership potential.
Keep in mind that an organisation might ask for a reference letter when actually they're asking for a recommendation or vice versa.
How do I write a recommendation letter?
Start by understanding who'll be reading the letter. This is important because you can make the letter more targeted. It's a good idea to ask the applicant for a copy of the job description. By doing that it can be easier to understand what themes to communicate.
Recommendation letters should be written with positive sentiment. You should consider first whether or not you can write a positive recommendation letter for the applicant. If you're unsure whether you can, think about a constructive way you can tell the applicant that you may not be able to write them a letter.
If the decision-maker wants to contact you, it is best that you add some contact details. In addition to that, the recommendation letter should briefly introduce your qualifications and how it is you know the applicant.
Get access to customisable recommendation letter templates online
1 - 4 of 4
What should a recommendation letter include?
In a recommendation letter, a good starting point may be to focus on:
- The person's strengths
- Their positive behaviours
- How conscientious they are towards their work
Using specific examples is one of the best ways to show someone's positive work behaviours and commitment to their work. It's one thing to read a list of someone's skills, but the reader will learn more about the character of the applicant with clear examples. Add a time when the applicant went above and beyond; creating significant value in the process.
Also, don't forget to state that you recommend them for the position they are applying for and why they are suitable.
What shouldn't I include in a recommendation letter?
Exaggeration. It is important to put the applicant in the best light possible. However, making unrealistic claims could work against the applicant. This is because the reader might think you are an unreliable referee if some of the claims are pushing the limits of belief. That could well reflect poorly on the applicant.
Another thing to avoid is generalising. One example would be endlessly listing skills and attributes. It is helpful to add some context. You can do this by explaining how the applicant showed, learnt or is currently developing the positive skills and behaviours you're describing. Listing skills is helpful. Remember to add some detail and explain how you know they show these skills.
Back to top
More guides on Finder
-
Unfair dismissal lawyers
Read about how a lawyer specialising in unfair dismissal can help you protect your rights and guide you through a challenging time.
-
Share sale agreement templates
Learn about the key points of share sale agreements and find templates you can download and customise to your needs.
-
Unincorporated joint venture agreement templates
Create a watertight joint venture agreement with the help of a legal template.
-
Incorporated joint venture agreement templates
Use a customisable template to help ensure your incorporated joint venture agreement is legally sound.
-
Service delivery agreement templates
How to download and customise a service delivery agreement to quickly protect your business.
-
Unsecured loan agreement templates
How to craft a legally binding contract with the help of a template.
-
Travel agency agreement templates
There's no need to start from scratch with a professionally-made template you can download.
-
Event planning contracts
Use a legal document template to craft an agreement that offers clarity on what's expected from all parties.
-
Hire agreement template
How to make sure everything's above board if you plan to rent out equipment to your customers.
-
Turnbull Hill Lawyers review
Get expert legal advice on all your family and business matters in Sydney and Newcastle with Turnbull Hill Lawyers.
Ask an Expert
