Letter of recommendation for a jerk?

Question

I have to write a letter of recommendation for a person I don't like very much. This is an unusual situation because he has much more power than me in my work place but for him to be promoted he needs letters of support from other people. I only said that I would write the letter because I am worried he will try to take revenge upon me if I don't write it and also he had alot of power and could prevent me from having opportunities in my workplace in the future. So I have to write it but, obviously, I am having trouble. He does do a good job in many ways but he is such a rude jerk in other ways, whenever I think of a good thing to write about him I think of another thing I don't like about him and I can't get the letter done. I don't have much time to write it. Give me some ideas on how I can get this distasteful job done.

Answer 1

You said that he does do a good job in some ways.  List the ways.  Try and make it in to 3 paragraphs.  It only need be a page.  You'd have your introduction, your paragraphs and then your conclusion.  You don't have to lie and make up stuff.  It is just a letter you need to write, not a book.

This letter is something you have to write.  If you want to advance and not have him come after you the letter must be written.  He'll remember who helped him out.

Answer 2

please don't do it. you have a conflict of interest and can't provide a proper assessment.

Answer 3

Honestly, given your feelings about him which are extreme, don't even bother. Just say you couldn't think of anything or say you didn't have time to write it.

Answer 4

Interesting predicament...I've never "had" to write a letter for someone above me.  That doesn't seem very helpful to someone responsible for hiring...it should be  reviews from HIS managers...

As someone who does some hiring, It seems like it would be hard to get honest information in a letter about someone's boss. Seems like all you'd get are letters from a bunch of suck-ups, or, only good letters as the bad ones were thrown out by this guy.

Could you find someone to write a latter instead of you? Just say you're got a lot on your plate right now, but you were able to find someone else to write a letter...someone who doesn't hate him so much, and that way he's not short a letter?

Answer 5

you could try to just focus on his work and completely ignore his personality in the letter.  if you are asked later on about his personality, be honest (but professional).  

Answer 6

Keep the letter brief and factual and don't get all gushy. You can explain his strong point in the workplace and still get across the idea that he isn't exactly the brightest bulb on your Christmas tree if you avoid the most complimentary language.

You may be able to write the letter without using words like "I recommend him for this job."  

Answer 7

Wow, that really sucks!  I say just edit out the stuff you don't like and be honest about the stuff you do like.  Focus only on his work performance and try not to think about what a horrible jerk he is.  I agree with the person that said to be honest if someone asks you about his personality later on (tell them it's off the record).

It just occurred to me that maybe you should talk to someone in your HR department, off the record, and ask for advice about this.  You shouldn't be forced or feel like you have no choice but to write a recommendation for someone, and he shouldn't be able to throw his power around like this.  I feel for you.

Answer 8

you cant you are too emotionally involved