How to Make a Resume for a Letter of Recommendation
Writing a resume for a letter of recommendation is an essential task for anyone who has been asked to provide a reference for a friend, colleague, or student. A well-crafted resume can help you highlight the key points that the recommender should include in their letter, ensuring that the recipient gets a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s qualifications and experiences. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a resume for a letter of recommendation, focusing on the essential elements to include and how to structure it effectively.
1. Start with Contact Information
The first section of your resume should include the contact information for both the recommender and the individual for whom the letter is intended. This information should be clear and easy to read, typically at the top of the page. Make sure to include the recommender’s full name, title, and professional address or email. For the individual, include their full name, current position or educational level, and contact details.
2. Professional Summary
Next, provide a brief professional summary that highlights the individual’s key strengths and accomplishments. This section should be concise, around three to five sentences long, and should capture the essence of their professional background. Focus on their most significant achievements, skills, and experiences that are relevant to the position or opportunity they are applying for.
3. Work Experience
List the individual’s work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with their most recent position. For each job, include the company name, job title, and dates of employment. Under each position, provide a bullet-point list of key responsibilities and achievements. Focus on quantifiable results and use action verbs to describe their contributions.
4. Education and Training
Include the individual’s educational background, starting with their highest level of education. List the degree, major, and institution name, along with the graduation date. If applicable, mention any relevant training or certifications they have obtained that are relevant to the position or opportunity.
5. Skills and Certifications
Highlight the individual’s key skills and certifications that are relevant to the position or opportunity. This section can include technical skills, soft skills, and any other qualifications that make them a strong candidate. Use bullet points to make the information easy to read and prioritize the most important skills.
6. Extracurricular Activities and Volunteer Work
If the individual has participated in extracurricular activities or volunteer work that demonstrate their leadership, teamwork, or other valuable skills, include this section. List the organization, position held, and dates of involvement. This information can provide additional context and showcase their well-rounded character.
7. References
Finally, include a section for references. List the names, titles, and contact information for three to four individuals who can vouch for the individual’s character, work ethic, and abilities. Choose references who know the individual well and can provide specific examples of their qualities.
By following these steps and including the essential elements, you can create a comprehensive resume for a letter of recommendation that will help the recommender provide a compelling and informative letter. Remember to proofread the resume for any errors or inconsistencies before submitting it to the recommender.
