Writing a good behavior letter involves detailing an individual's positive traits through honest, specific anecdotes and clearly defining your relationship to them. This type of letter, often referred to as a character letter or letter of recommendation, serves to provide a compelling personal account of an individual's integrity, reliability, and other commendable qualities.
Essential Elements of an Effective Behavior Letter
To create a powerful and credible behavior letter, focus on these critical components:
- Unwavering Truthfulness: Every single statement, every word you write, must be absolutely true and factual. Exaggerating or fabricating details can severely undermine the letter's credibility and potentially harm the person you are vouching for. Authenticity is paramount.
- Establish Your Relationship and History: Clearly state how you know the individual and for how long. This crucial context validates your insights and establishes your authority as a credible reference. For example, specify if you are a colleague, neighbor, mentor, or friend, and the duration of your acquaintance.
- Highlight Positive Traits with Concrete Evidence: Identify specific positive attributes the person possesses, such as honesty, compassion, strong work ethic, reliability, or leadership. Crucially, support each trait with one or more true, brief anecdotes or specific examples that illustrate the behavior in action. These stories transform abstract qualities into memorable, impactful demonstrations of character.
Structuring Your Behavior Letter
A well-organized letter is easy to read and highly persuasive. Here’s a standard, effective format:
1. Your Contact Information and Date
Begin with your details at the top of the letter:
- Your Full Name
- Your Address
- Your Phone Number
- Your Email Address
- Date of Writing
2. Recipient Information
Below your contact information, include the recipient's details:
- Recipient's Name (if known)
- Recipient's Title
- Organization Name
- Organization Address
3. Salutation
Use a formal salutation:
- "Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name]," (if you know the specific recipient)
- "To Whom It May Concern," (if the recipient is unknown)
4. Introduction
The opening paragraph should immediately state the purpose of your letter and your connection to the individual:
- State Purpose: Clearly articulate that you are writing to attest to the good character or behavior of the individual.
- Define Relationship: Briefly explain your relationship to the person and how long you have known them.
- Example: "I am writing to wholeheartedly attest to the exceptional character of [Person's Name], whom I have had the privilege of knowing for [number] years as my [relationship, e.g., employee, mentee, close friend]."
5. Body Paragraphs (The Core of Your Letter)
Dedicate separate paragraphs to different positive traits or key areas of behavior. For each point, provide a specific, true anecdote or example that vividly demonstrates the quality. Remember, these examples are what make your letter compelling and believable.
- Example (for reliability and dedication): "During our time volunteering at the local community center, [Person's Name] consistently arrived early and stayed late, often taking on extra responsibilities without being asked. I recall one instance when a key volunteer fell ill unexpectedly; [Person's Name] seamlessly stepped in, ensuring the event ran smoothly, demonstrating remarkable commitment and problem-solving skills."
- Example (for compassion and integrity): "I once witnessed [Person's Name] go out of their way to assist a new neighbor who was struggling with a challenging personal situation. Their selfless offer of support and genuine empathy, without seeking any recognition, truly reflected their deep-seated integrity and compassionate nature."
6. Conclusion
Summarize your main points and reiterate your strong recommendation or positive assessment of the person's character. Offer to provide further information if required.
- Example: "In summary, [Person's Name] consistently exemplifies [mention 2-3 key traits mentioned in the body, e.g., integrity, resilience, and a profound sense of community]. I am confident that their exemplary conduct will continue to positively impact those around them. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require any additional information."
7. Closing
Use a professional closing:
- "Sincerely,"
- "Respectfully yours,"
- "Best regards,"
8. Signature
Below your closing:
- Your handwritten signature (if sending a physical copy)
- Your typed full name
Tips for Maximizing Impact
Do's | Don'ts |
---|---|
Be Honest and Factual: Every word must be true. | Exaggerate or Fabricate Details: This damages credibility. |
Include Specific Anecdotes: Show, don't just tell. | Make Vague Statements: Avoid generalizations like "they are a good person." |
State Your Relationship Clearly: Establish your credibility upfront. | Assume the Reader Knows You or the Individual: Provide full context. |
Maintain a Professional Tone: Keep language formal and respectful. | Use Informal Language or Jargon: Unless appropriate for the specific context. |
Proofread Meticulously: Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. | Submit Without Thorough Review: Errors detract from your professionalism. |
- Be Specific and Concise: Vague statements are less impactful than concrete examples. Aim for clarity and conciseness, ideally keeping the letter to one page, or two at most, unless a longer format is specifically requested.
- Tailor to the Audience and Purpose: If the letter is for a specific context (e.g., a court, a scholarship committee, an employer), subtly adjust your focus to highlight traits most relevant to that situation. For instance, for a court, emphasize responsibility, law-abiding behavior, and community involvement.
- Professional Tone: Even if you know the person well, maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the letter.
- Proofread Carefully: Errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation can detract significantly from your credibility. Always proofread your letter thoroughly, and consider having someone else review it for mistakes.
- Timeliness: Ensure you submit the letter by any given deadline.
For more guidance on professional letter writing, resources like the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) offer valuable insights.