When it comes to giving a recommendation for an intern — for grad school, another internship program, an EA gig, etc. — you might not be sure where to begin. (Probably because most of us are more used to asking for them than writing them!) Before you sit down to write a gushing email or prepare a formal document, read these tips from editors who have mastered it.
Explain the job. Explain the variety of tasks the person handled is important, but also say what kind of work she produced. “I always mention if they can handle assignments on their own and turn in exemplary work with little hand-holding, ” says Melissa Bykofsky, senior editor at Redbook and Woman’s Day.
Highlight the intern’s personality. Was she eager to try something new? Did she pitch story ideas without being asked? “As an employer, I’m interested in hearing about employees who are excited to learn and take more of an initiative instead of just employees who are hard workers,” says Jessica Booth, managing editor at Gurl. You should also explain what about this candidate makes her asset to that specific company. “It makes me feel a lot better to know that someone will fit in with my team,” says Julie Cerick, managing editor at Thrillist.
Be enthusiastic. If you have an intern who you think is awesome, don’t be afraid to say so! “I’ve had interns who were amazing, and I explained that I absolutely think they should get the job they are applying for,” says Bykofsky.
Keep it short. Don’t exceed more than a couple paragraphs, unless the company asks for it. An informal conversation also works. “I have colleagues who have messaged me on Facebook, sent quick emails, or even just asked me in person what I think of a former intern,” says Booth.
Never give a bad recommendation. Just because someone isn’t a star for you doesn’t mean they won’t excel somewhere else. (Not to mention, a bad recommendation could result in a lawsuit.) “Everyone deserves the opportunity to grow and learn more,” says Bykofsky. If you don’t feel you can say anything nice, you may be better off politely suggesting that the intern asks someone else for a recommendation instead.
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