How should my employer structure a professional letter of recommendation for me?
A professional letter of recommendation from your employer typically follows the standard one-page LOR format, divided into four to five short paragraphs of about 100 words each. The difference from an academic LOR lies mainly in content. Check each university's requirements.
A recommendation letter from your employer gives an unbiased view of your abilities, achievements and character. It usually follows the standard one-page LOR format, similar to the academic LOR format.
Typical Structure and Format
| Element | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Length | One page, usually four to five short paragraphs |
| Paragraph size | About 100 words each |
| Difference from academic LOR | Mostly the content, not the structure, word limit or formatting |
| MBA programmes | Often a form-based LOR with standard questions, sometimes with word or character limits |
What the Letter Should Show
- Your duties and responsibilities at work.
- Your successes and the influence you have had on the company.
- Evidence of your effectiveness in a work environment.
- Your qualifications and readiness for the next phase of study or profession.
My Advice
Choose a recommender who knows your work well, and share your achievements so the paragraphs stay specific. Because requirements vary by programme, check the official university instructions on whether they want a form or a free-form letter.
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