References: Articles and Tips to Help You

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“Customized Letters of Recommendation!”

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What do hiring managers and human resources personnel want more than anything else? Things that make their job easier. One of these things can be letters of recommendation. In addition to potentially saving them a few phone calls, it can give them more information about why to hire you than a phone call.

So, just ask your favorite people to write you a letter and then make lots of copies to hand out to everyone right? Well, maybe not. Just like every other piece of job hunting communication, letters of recommendation are more meaningful if they are customized. No matter how much your previous professor or boss likes you, writing letter after letter to the several companies you may be applying at is a lot to ask. How do you help everyone save time?

First, pick your candidates to write general letters of recommendation. Pick up the letter in person (a great chance to say a big thank you for their time and effort) and ask for some extra blank letterhead while you are there. Talk to them about your goals and ambitions and let them know how much the letter helps you. Taking them out for a cup of coffee can be a good way to say thank you and also have time to talk in a little more detail. As you talk, you can ask permission to customize the letter for individual jobs. For example, writing “I highly recommend Steve to work at XYZ company” vs. “I highly recommend Steve”). When you are applying for the job, give your reference a call and ask if they think you would be a good fit for the job and why. Then add this to the reference letter, print it out on the company letterhead, and send it to your reference along with an addressed and stamped envelope. If the reference approves of the changes (that are based on your phone call with them), then they can sign the letter and stick it in the mail to the company doing the hiring.

This will certainly take extra effort, and require that you take the time and effort to build your references into longer-term mentoring relationships. But the help, advice, and direction you will get from these people will be priceless as you continue your career. As in any relationship make sure that it is not just about getting what you can from other people. Offer to help them in return whenever possible. Being a good citizen of the world means giving back too.

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