How to Write Recommendations for Former Employees?

Writing a recommendation for former employees can be an effective approach to help them advance their careers while also demonstrating your professionalism. A well-written recommendation can make all the difference when they are applying for a new job or looking for freelance work. In this article, we provide guidelines on how to write recommendations for your former employees.

A solid recommendation benefits the former employee while also reflecting positively on you as a professional. It indicates your capacity to spot brilliance and promote career advancement.

Begin by introducing yourself and discussing your professional relationship with the former employee. Mention your position in the organization, how long you've worked together, and in what capacity.

Example: I had the pleasure of working with [Employee's Name] at [Company Name] for [duration] in the role of [Job Title]. During that time, I observed their excellent [skill/quality, such as leadership, teamwork, or technical abilities].

Highlight the employee's accomplishments and skills. Use concrete instances, such as successfully finished projects, problem-solving skills, or remarkable accomplishments. Tips:

• Mention quantifiable outcomes (for example, "The employee increased sales by 20%" or "They streamlined operations, saving 15 hours of work weekly").
• Highlight transferable skills, especially if the referral is for a different industry or career.

Example: in their job as [Job Title], [Employee's Name] routinely demonstrated exceptional performance. One remarkable feat was their ability to [particular accomplishment, e.g., "lead a cross-functional team to deliver a major project ahead of schedule"].

Employers place equal weight on interpersonal traits as they do on technical skills. Emphasize characteristics such as adaptability, teamwork, leadership, and communication.

Example: [Employee's Name] excelled at encouraging teamwork. Their affable personality and great communication skills fostered a positive work atmosphere, making them an important asset to our organization.

Make sure your recommendation is appropriate for the career or opportunity they are pursuing. For example, if they are seeking a leadership position, highlight their abilities to manage teams and achieve goals.

Example: I am certain that [Employee's Name]'s leadership and strategic thinking would enable them to flourish in [particular role, e.g., "Marketing Manager"] at [Company Name].

Authenticity is key. Avoid inflating former employees’ abilities or giving incorrect information. Focus on their strengths while remaining honest.

Example: while [Employee's Name] was always ready to learn, they were most known for their ability to swiftly adapt to new difficulties and continuously surpass expectations.

End the advice by restating your endorsement and offering to supply additional information if necessary.

Example: I sincerely endorse [Employee's Name] for this position. I am convinced that they will succeed in their future pursuits. If you have any further queries, please email [email address] or call [phone number].

Writing a recommendation for a former employee does not have to be a difficult process. By following these steps, you can create a fascinating and effective recommendation that will help them stand out to potential employers or clients. Remember, your thoughtful endorsement could be the key to their next big break.