Hi! You are on this page because you've asked me for a reference letter. Previously, I used to write letters from scratch, following discussions with the requester. However, more recently, I have developed a new workflow for writing references, and I have found it to be very useful, and ensures a strong reference that captures the right details.

Please can you initiate the recommendation letter and write a few paragraphs or bullet points on what you would like such a letter of recommendation to say. It can include details like:

• Useful facts about you and me: How do you know me? What is involved in our relationship? What projects have you done with me and what should I recall?
• Useful facts about you: What are some outstanding things about yourself I should raise? For instance, you might want me to mention your work in X, Y, Z. Why are these impressive?
• What are some things you'd like me to discuss or highlight?

If it is helpful, you may write this in bullet points. Aim for about an A4 paper in detail.

A typical recommendation letter might take the following form: (i) opener; (ii) describe some past projects; (iii) describe fit in new roles; (iv) close.

This has been really helpful because you may mention key details that I'm unaware of. Once I have this, I will re-write the letter significantly in order to weave in the suggestions, and add my own thoughts. Almost always, the end result is something that looks very different.

It is an odd thing – to write your own reference – if you have not done it previously. However, from experience, this has led to much stronger letters of support.

Do not worry about being too boastful/prideful in your references. I will also tone down any items to suit my own thoughts and the environment. In general, it's better to be boastful about any qualities that you believe are true, since I can always tone it down myself!