How To Write Yourself A Letter Of Recommendation: A Comprehensive Guide
Writing a letter of recommendation for yourself might sound a bit odd at first. After all, aren’t these letters supposed to be written by someone else to vouch for you? While that’s true in many situations, there are times when you might need to draft your own letter of recommendation. Perhaps you’re applying for a volunteer position, a personal award, or need to provide a character reference. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your self-written letter is impactful and presents you in the best possible light.
Understanding the Circumstances: When a Self-Written Letter is Necessary
Before you start writing, it’s crucial to understand why you’re writing this letter. Is it explicitly requested? Is it an option? The context dictates the tone and content. Self-written letters are often acceptable in situations where you’re showcasing your own achievements or providing context for your actions. Think about it: a potential employer might ask for a letter from a former manager, but a volunteer organization might accept a self-written letter detailing your past contributions.
Pre-Writing Preparations: Gathering Your Arsenal of Accomplishments
Before you put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), you need to gather your resources. This means compiling a list of your accomplishments, skills, and experiences relevant to the letter’s purpose. Think beyond the obvious. Don’t just list job titles. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of “Increased sales,” write “Increased sales by 15% in Q2.” This provides concrete evidence and makes your letter more compelling.
Structure is Key: Crafting a Powerful Letter of Recommendation
A well-structured letter is essential for clarity and impact. Here’s a recommended format:
The Introductory Paragraph: Setting the Stage
Start with a clear and concise introduction. State the purpose of the letter and what you’re recommending yourself for. Mention how you know yourself (e.g., “I am writing to recommend myself for the Volunteer of the Year award”). Immediately establish the connection between you and the opportunity.
Body Paragraphs: Showcasing Your Strengths
This is where you provide the meat of your letter. Use multiple paragraphs to elaborate on your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Tailor these paragraphs to the specific requirements or criteria of the opportunity. If the application emphasizes teamwork, highlight instances where you demonstrated collaborative skills. If it values leadership, provide examples of your leadership abilities.
Providing Specific Examples: Backing Up Your Claims
Don’t just state your strengths; demonstrate them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your accomplishments.
- Situation: Briefly describe the context.
- Task: Outline the specific task or challenge.
- Action: Explain the actions you took.
- Result: Detail the positive outcome.
This method transforms general claims into concrete examples, making your letter more believable and impactful.
Addressing Potential Weaknesses (If Necessary): Honesty and Transparency
In some cases, it might be beneficial to address a potential weakness or gap in your experience. However, do so cautiously. Focus on how you’ve learned from the experience and the steps you’ve taken to improve. Frame it as a growth opportunity rather than a deficiency. This demonstrates self-awareness and a proactive approach to challenges.
The Closing Paragraph: Reiteration and Enthusiasm
Summarize your key strengths and reiterate your recommendation. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and your belief in your ability to succeed. End with a confident and positive statement.
Formatting for Impact: Making Your Letter Stand Out
The appearance of your letter matters. Here are some formatting tips:
Choosing the Right Tone: Finding Your Voice
The tone should be professional yet authentic. While it’s a self-written letter, avoid sounding boastful or arrogant. Use confident language, but maintain a respectful and humble tone. Consider the audience and tailor your language accordingly.
Selecting a Professional Format: Presentation Matters
Use a standard business letter format. Include:
- Your contact information (name, address, phone number, email).
- The date.
- The recipient’s information (if known).
- A clear and concise subject line (e.g., “Letter of Recommendation for Volunteer Position”).
- A formal closing (e.g., “Sincerely,” or “Best regards,”).
Ensure your letter is well-spaced, easy to read, and free of typos and grammatical errors.
Proofreading is Paramount: Eliminating Errors
Proofread your letter meticulously. Get a fresh pair of eyes to review it as well. Typos and grammatical errors can undermine your credibility, regardless of the content.
Customization: Tailoring Your Letter to the Specific Opportunity
One-size-fits-all letters are ineffective. Each letter should be customized to the specific requirements and expectations of the opportunity. Research the organization or individual you’re writing to and tailor your language and examples to align with their values and goals. Show that you understand their needs and that you’re a good fit.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Mistakes to Steer Clear Of
There are several common mistakes to avoid when writing a letter of recommendation for yourself.
Overstating Your Abilities: Maintaining Authenticity
Avoid exaggerating your skills or accomplishments. Be honest and realistic about your abilities. False claims can easily be exposed and damage your credibility.
Being Too Vague: Providing Concrete Evidence
Don’t make sweeping generalizations. Provide specific examples and data to support your claims. Vague statements lack impact and make it difficult for the reader to assess your capabilities.
Ignoring the Instructions: Following the Guidelines
Carefully review any instructions or guidelines provided by the recipient. Adhere to the specified format, length, and content requirements. Failure to follow instructions can reflect poorly on your attention to detail.
Neglecting Proofreading: Ensuring Accuracy
As mentioned, proofreading is crucial. Don’t rely solely on spellcheck. Have someone else review your letter for errors you might have missed.
When It’s Not Appropriate: Knowing Your Limits
While self-written letters are acceptable in certain circumstances, they are not appropriate for all situations. Avoid using them if:
- The request explicitly requires a letter from someone else.
- The situation demands an objective assessment of your abilities.
- You lack the necessary experience or qualifications.
Always consider the context and the expectations of the recipient.
FAQs: Addressing Your Concerns
Here are some frequently asked questions to further assist you.
What if I’m not sure what to say in the letter?
Start by brainstorming. List your strengths, accomplishments, and relevant experiences. Research the opportunity and identify the key qualities they’re looking for. Then, use the STAR method to create compelling examples.
How long should the letter be?
The length of the letter depends on the requirements of the opportunity. Generally, a letter should be between one and two pages. However, focus on providing relevant information concisely.
Can I use a template?
Yes, using a template can be a helpful starting point. However, be sure to customize the template to reflect your unique experiences and tailor it to the specific opportunity.
How do I make the letter sound less self-serving?
Focus on the benefits you can bring to the organization or individual. Use the STAR method to provide concrete examples of your accomplishments, and frame your skills and experiences in terms of how they will contribute to their success.
What if I don’t feel comfortable writing a letter of recommendation for myself?
If you’re truly uncomfortable, and it’s not a requirement, it might be worth considering whether you truly need to write the letter. Explore other options, if available.
Conclusion: Crafting a Compelling Self-Recommendation
Writing a letter of recommendation for yourself requires careful consideration and a strategic approach. By understanding the circumstances, gathering your accomplishments, structuring your letter effectively, formatting it professionally, and customizing it to the specific opportunity, you can create a compelling document that showcases your strengths and increases your chances of success. Remember to be honest, authentic, and confident in your presentation. By following these guidelines, you can navigate this unique writing task and present yourself in the best possible light.