Who to Address Letter of Recommendation To: A Comprehensive Guide
Writing a letter of recommendation is a significant task that can greatly impact the future of the individual you are writing for. Whether it’s for a job application, a graduate school admission, or a scholarship, the letter should be tailored to the specific recipient. In this article, we will discuss the importance of addressing the letter correctly and provide a comprehensive guide on who to address letter of recommendation to.
Understanding the Purpose of the Letter
Before determining who to address the letter of recommendation to, it’s crucial to understand the purpose of the letter. This will help you tailor the content and tone of the letter to the recipient’s expectations. For example, a letter for a job application should focus on the candidate’s professional skills and experiences, while a letter for graduate school admission should highlight the individual’s academic achievements and potential.
Identifying the Recipient
Once you have a clear understanding of the purpose of the letter, the next step is to identify the recipient. Here are some common recipients for a letter of recommendation:
1. Employers: Address the letter to the hiring manager or the HR department. If possible, obtain the specific name of the hiring manager, as this shows a personal touch and demonstrates your effort in researching the company.
2. Graduate Schools: Address the letter to the admissions committee or the department chair. If the school has a specific application form for recommendations, follow their guidelines.
3. Scholarships: Address the letter to the scholarship committee or the organization providing the scholarship. Make sure to follow any specific instructions provided by the scholarship provider.
4. Professional Organizations: Address the letter to the relevant board or committee within the organization. If you have a contact within the organization, consider using their name to personalize the letter.
Formatting the Address
When addressing the letter, it’s important to use a formal and professional tone. Here’s a general format for addressing a letter of recommendation:
[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Title]
[Company/Organization Name]
[Company/Organization Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
For example:
[Recipient’s Name]
Hiring Manager
[Company Name]
123 Main Street
Anytown, USA
12345
Personalizing the Salutation
After addressing the letter, you’ll need to choose an appropriate salutation. Here are some options:
1. Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]: This is the most common and formal salutation.
2. Dear [Recipient’s Name]: This is a more personal and friendly option, but it’s still professional.
3. Dear [Recipient’s Title]: This is suitable when you’re addressing a specific title, such as “Dear Admissions Committee.”
Conclusion
Addressing the letter of recommendation correctly is essential for its effectiveness. By understanding the purpose of the letter, identifying the recipient, and using a formal and appropriate format, you can create a compelling recommendation that will positively impact the individual’s future. Remember to personalize the letter and use a professional tone throughout.
