nocomment's Journal: how do I write a letter of recommendation

My cousin is applying for his apprenticeship to be a pipe fitter/welder and requested a letter of recommendation from me. I've never written one, and don't know how to go about it without sounding like a brown-nosing relative.

My cousin is really good. He's a good mechanic, a good welder, and will make a hell of a pipe-fitter. But how do I say that in writing to compelte stranger without the guy going 'this is jsut the guys cousin, he has to say that'.

Be honest

[johndiii]

Dear Mr. <insert name here>,

I understand that my cousin, <insert cousin's name here> has applied to be an apprentice pipefitter. He has asked me to write a letter of recommendation.

(Paragraph about how well you know your cousin, that is, what qualifies you to write this letter)

(Paragraph(s) assessing your cousin's character, attitude, and work ethic, and what you personally know (as opposed to what you have been told by others, including your cousin) of the skills that may apply to being a pipe

Re:

[nocomment]

I did the best I could. My cousin was very happy with it. I basically just commented on the things I've seen him do. Reduild cars, remodel homes, welding, etc...but written in a prefessional manner. I think it was decent for a first try.

I liked your advice on it's not my role to sell him. That gave me a whole new perspective on it. Thanks!