A Tactful Way to Decline to Write a Letter of Recommendation

Company Letterhead

{{company_name}}

{{company_address}}

Phone: {{phone}}

Email: {{email}}

Website: {{website}}

Date

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Recipient Information

{{recipient_name}}

{{recipient_address}}

Salutation

Dear {{recipient_name}},

Subject

Subject: Regarding your request for a letter of recommendation

Body of Letter

Thank you for reaching out to me and for considering me to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. I appreciate you thinking of me.

While I genuinely wish you success in your application for the {{position/opportunity_name}} at {{institution/company_name}}, I regret to inform you that I will be unable to provide a letter of recommendation at this time. This decision is not a reflection of your abilities or potential, but rather due to {{brief_reason_for_declining_e.g._my_current_workload,_limited_direct_professional_interaction_in_the_specific_area_requested,_etc.}}. I believe it is important that a letter of recommendation can speak authentically and comprehensively to your qualifications and given my current circumstances, I would not be able to provide the endorsement you deserve.

I wish you all the best in your pursuit of this opportunity and your future endeavours. I am confident that you will find a suitable referee who can provide the strong recommendation you need.

Closing

Sincerely,

Signature Block

{{your_name}}

{{your_title}}

{{company_name}}