Writing Effective Nomination and Reference Letters

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Oluwaseun Adekeye: 00:01

Welcome to the Student Activities Online Leadership Toolbox. Today on Inspired Leadership, I will be talking about writing effective nomination and reference letters. Start by recognizing the purpose of a nomination letter. These letters support individuals applying for jobs, scholarships, or awards. A strong letter does more than praise.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 00:30

It clearly demonstrates why a candidate stands out. Now prepare intentionally. Do your research, gather information about the person you are recommending, understand the purpose of the letter, the criteria, and the audience you are writing to. Next, personalize your greeting. Address the recipient directly whenever possible.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 00:55

Confirm names and spelling. Show attention to detail and professionalism from the very beginning. Now structure your letter clearly. Begin by introducing your relationship with a candidate. Explain how you know them and why you are qualified to recommend them.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 01:15

State your recommendation confidently. Next, highlight key strengths. Select a few important qualities. Describe them clearly. Support each point with specific examples that demonstrate the candidate's abilities and impact.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 01:36

Now connect skills to purpose. Align the candidate's strength with the requirement of the position or award. Show how the experiences match what is being sought. Next, reinforce your message. Summarize the candidate's qualifications.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 01:53

Restate your recommendation with confidence. Avoid introducing new information. Focus on strengthening your key points. Now conclude with intention. Express your confidence in the candidate.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 02:07

Offer to provide additional information if needed. Include your contact details clearly. Finish professionally. Add a formal closing. Include your name, title, and contact information, and present your letter in a clear and organized format.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 02:24

As you write, stay focused. Keep your message concise. Avoid unnecessary details, use clear language to engage the reader and highlight what matters most. Now take action, apply this structure, support your statements with examples, Deliver a letter that is both clear and compelling. And that is it.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 02:49

Let's review what was presented. Today, we discuss how to prepare, structure, and write a strong nomination and reference letter using clear examples and focused messaging. Remember to be intentional. When you write with clarity and purpose, you create a powerful recommendation that helps others succeed. This podcast was presented by student activities at Minnesota State University, Manketo.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 03:20

Thank you for participating.