Letter of recommendation is a document wherein a referrer supports a candidate's application by advocating his qualities and potentials. The format, the contents and the style of writing used in any recommendation letter depends upon its purpose. One needs to draft the reference letter suiting the purpose so that it is more effective and appealing in getting you the desired result. The two commonly used types of reference letters are employment and academic reference letters. Given below are certain points that will help you understand how the letter of recommendation for admission in college is different from a job application letter.
Purpose
Any letter is effective only when its contents are targeted rightly towards the objective of the letter. As name suggests, candidates write an academic reference letter to gain admission in some educational institutes and an employment reference letter to get a job. Hence, the referrer mentions every point of quality or praise in academic reference letter to prove the candidate as sincere and dedicated student with the eagerness to learn new things. On the other hand, the referrer writes an employment reference letter to portray the candidate as efficient, suitable employee with the passion of pursing his interest area.
Referrer
Every candidate is different as a student and as an employee. In case of an employment letter, recruiters prefer a reference letter from previous employers. Earlier employers can give a better insight about a candidate's abilities and potentials, working ways, strengths and skills. The opinions and remarks made by the earlier employers are more important and trustworthy, as they have known the candidate as an employee before.
On the other hand, professors, department heads or headmasters refer the candidate in an academic reference letter. They have seen the candidate as a student and have experienced his sincerity and dedication towards work.
Qualities
There are certain qualities that are common in each employment reference letter. These qualities are essential to prove the candidate as hardworking and efficient employee. These qualities include:
Areas of Interest
One of the key points in any reference letter is love and passion towards a particular field of interest. Within the same field, one may have a particular interest area. In case of an employment letter, justify your choice of interest area with strong experience of handling related responsibilities. In case of academic reference letter, the area of interest is based on the student's love towards the topic. One can justify the choice of topic as special subject for graduation, for internships or project work. It is important to justify the choice to display your eagerness to learn more and become a specialist.
Given here were some points that would have help you understand how the letter of recommendation for admission in college is different from a job application letter. Understand these differences well to draft an effective and well-structured letter of recommendation.