LPN Letter of Recommendation Template

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) often face high competition when applying to new positions, especially in the states with the highest LPN salaries. A compelling LPN letter of recommendation may give an applicant the edge they need to secure a desired job. If you’re writing or receiving reference letters, it’s helpful to know exactly what they cover and what a great finished letter looks like.

We put together a sample letter of recommendation for LPN candidates that can serve as either a blueprint that you can customize, or simply an example to help you become more recruitment-savvy. We’ll also give you helpful tips about each section and discuss the role referrals play within an application package as a whole.

Why Is an LPN Letter of Recommendation Important?

Many healthcare organizations use thorough credentialing processes in an effort to onboard only qualified and capable staff. For LPNs, a typical application package involves a combination of documents, including:

• A resume/CV.
• A cover letter.
• Proof of relevant education and certifications.
• An approved background check and drug screen.
• An LPN letter of recommendation from employers.

What purpose does the letter of recommendation serve within the whole package? It’s a key document because it provides a personal endorsement of the applicant’s professional skills and moral character. Ideally, the writer knows the applicant well and can attest to their potential for success at a new facility.

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for LPNs: 5 Tips and a Template

Because letters of recommendation are a valuable part of an application package, it’s important that the content is genuine and accurate, not full of hype. If you’ve been asked to write one, take the issue seriously. Hiring managers will make judgments based on your letter of recommendation. For LPN staff whom you don’t know well, or feel reservations about, it may be best to say no, or to suggest others who may be in a better position to provide a recommendation.

If you agree to write an LPN letter of recommendation, consider asking for a list of special certifications, leadership activities, achievements, or awards. Once you’ve gathered some information, it’s time to write. Use the sample letter below as your guide.

1. Start With a Professional Greeting and Introduction

Tips: It’s considered standard practice to write reference letters in a tone that’s both conversational and professional. It may be helpful to think as though you’re speaking to a colleague or higher-up that you’re meeting for the first time.

If the LPN candidate gave you information about the hiring party, you can use it in your greeting. Otherwise, the general greeting “To Whom it May Concern” is an acceptable choice. Introduce yourself and your intention with the letter. State your role within your organization and explain the nature of your relationship with the candidate.

Template:

To Whom It May Concern,

My name is [your name], and I am writing this recommendation letter on behalf of John Harris. As the nurse manager of the Medical-Surgical floor here at [your facility], I’ve had the pleasure of supervising John for the past three years. He’s passionate about providing excellent, evidence-based nursing care within his scope of practice, and I believe he’d be a positive addition to your team.

2. Describe the Candidate’s Strengths, Skills, and Qualifications

Tips: Next, move on to the qualities that make the LPN candidate stand out. Be specific, and consider your unique perspective. For example, instead of saying “John likes to learn,” you could say “When I lead Code Blue training drills once a quarter, John is always passionate about learning and participating.”

Template:

John is an avid reader and often brings nursing periodicals to our unit to share articles he’s excited about. It’s been inspiring to see the way his interests ignite passion in the rest of the staff. Last fall, John collaborated with two RNs on our unit to introduce the Morse Fall Scale to our falls prevention program. He is a member of our unit’s Evidence-Based Practice Peer Education Committee.

3. List Personality Attributes and Behavior Traits

Tips: Here, you’ll deliver an assessment of the candidate’s character based on what you’ve seen and experienced. Verify that the candidate is a good match for the new position by highlighting relevant positive nursing qualities. Hiring managers will be looking for traits like empathy, integrity, and professionalism. Don’t forget about qualities that are often underrated, such as emotional intelligence and passion.

Template:

Coworkers on John’s team describe him as hardworking, engaged, and driven. I have been impressed with John’s ability to balance humor and professionalism when caring for patients. Our unit’s patient satisfaction scores often come in with stories about John’s jokes and uplifting energy. He is team-oriented and collaborates seamlessly with all members of the care team.

4. Conclude With a Final Commendation

Tips: Your conclusion can cover any last thoughts about the candidate’s ability to safely care for patients and collaborate with the healthcare team. Express confidence that they would succeed in the new position, then wrap up your LPN letter of recommendation with a final statement of support.

Template:

John’s strong clinical skills and passion for providing excellent care to patients have made him a great asset to our team. I feel confident that he would make a valuable addition to your facility. It is my honor to recommend him for the position.

5. Provide Your Personal Contact Details for Further Questions

Tips: Hiring managers sometimes follow up on letters of recommendation, so list the ways you can be reached. Discussing candidates with colleagues in the industry is also a great way to network with your peers. Once you’ve listed your contact information, your letter is complete. It shouldn’t be more than one page in length.

Template:

If you have any questions about John’s time here at [your facility], please feel free to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your name and credentials]

[Place of employment]

[Email address]

[Phone number]

Want to Find More Opportunities to Grow as a Facility Leader?

Writing a professional and impactful LPN letter of recommendation will not only help the candidate succeed, but it will also reflect well on your leadership abilities and may help you build relationships with supervisors at other facilities. Find more ways to set you, and your team, up for success with our latest healthcare management insights.