Everyone likes praise. Receiving kudos and positive feedback is always welcome. Often times we need to solicit this information, especially when we are inquiring about a new job, applying for a volunteer position, creating a resume or an on-line networking profile.
When you are asked to write a referral for someone else, you may find it a quick and easy thing to do ... or you may find yourself in a quandary. So how do you respond to a request for a written recommendation? If you know and like the person, your "yes" response will come easily. - Make the process simple - ask if there are particular skills or abilities they would like highlighted.
- Use specific examples, if appropriate.
- Consider asking the person to read it over and give the okay before finalizing; is there anything they would like added?
If it is someone you are acquainted with but don't know well enough to provide a glowing reference: - Write a general recommendation about the attributes you have seen, such as timeliness, courtesy to others, follow-through on responsibilities, etc.
- Avoid saying anything that may be construed as negative, i.e. "He has a great sense of humor and is known for playing practical jokes."
However, what if the request comes from someone you cannot recommend, for one reason or another? First, possible reasons why you cannot recommend this person: - You don't know them well enough.
- You know this individual on a friendly basis but have no first- hand knowledge to offer for a professional recommendation.
- You have had a bad experience with this person.
- You have observed things about this person that do not speak well about him as a professional, even though you like him personally.
What do you say in response to the request? Tactful honesty is the best policy in this situation. Some examples: - "I cannot do you justice in a recommendation because we have not worked together."
- "I'm sorry, but due to the circumstances and/or our experiences together I am not able to write a positive recommendation." If needed, provide specifics.
If someone asks you to write a letter of recommendation, take the time to do it well; the task you have agreed to is not just a favor but also a responsibility.
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