If lots of bosses lack confidence in their ability to write letters of recommendation that reflect well on them, then maybe you do too. The stakes are high with letters of recommendation, so it is understandable if you are a little concerned.
Your recommendation letter must not only be refined, it should also be convincing. Fancy letters that don't convince are no use. You need to know how to hit your prospect's hot buttons to sell your way into your first interview.
What's frustrating to lots of candidates is this: Writing letters of recommendation, resumes, cover letters, and all the rest is often more challenging than any writing they have to do on the job! The positions they want do not require high-level writing skills, but getting those positions in the first place often does.
On the other hand, some candidates are able to get positions for which others are actually better qualified - precisely because they can write better! They can better express themselves in way that warrants more attention, and thus, more job opportunities.
Face it: writing skills are one of the most important skills there is. There are skills you will need to be effective on the job and there are skills you will need to get that job in the first place. Getting ahead in your career requires both.
PROBLEM: What should you do if you have a recommendation letter that was written with a clear opportunity in mind, but doesn't really help the next?
SOLUTION: Create a new letter.
Most people think that a recommendation letter is a simple letter that starts with To Whom It May Concern. This letter says good things about the applicant and he can use this in every job that he'd like to apply for.
Those days are gone. Effective candidates tailor their pitches (if you will) to the opportunity at hand. With the advent of technology, you can use a computer now to customize your letter easily.
It's easy enough, that's why most people do it. Lots of your competition tailor their recommendation letter to the job at hand and you shouldn't be surprised by this. There's only a relative few today, but it's increasing by the day.
Why? Simple: it works. (Competition drives people to do crazy things!)
For more information, including tips, samples, and templates, please check out our website: Recommendation Letter