Letters of Recommendation

A person who knows you well and thinks highly of you should write the letters of recommendation. Gathering letters of reference is an ongoing project.

Here are examples of individuals you can ask for letters of reference:

• An employer whom you left on good terms
• A teacher in a class where you did particularly good work
• A guidance counselor, coach or other school administrator who knows you
• A mentor or someone with whom you worked on a community project

List these people as your references at the bottom of your resume and on your job applications. Try to get two or three good letters. Make copies and attach these to your resume with each application you fill out.

Strategies for Success:

• Pick people who know you well enough to write positive comments about your work ethic, dependability and willingness to learn.

• Once you ask a person to write a letter, follow up with a short handwritten note thanking them in advance. This gives them an incentive to complete the letter. In your note thank them for their support, guidance and instruction. Thanking people for their help encourages them to help you more.

• Never give an original letter of reference to an employer. Always make copies, and always attach them to your resume and job application. This strategy will help you to stand out from other applicants.

Here are some guidelines to help you choose who to ask for a recommendation.

DO’S Teacher Co-worker Past Supervisor Counselor Professional Worker

DON’Ts Friends your own age Negative responses Relative Submit without permission Very old recommendations