The process of transmitting professional or academic recommendations electronically is now a standard practice. This involves compiling relevant documents or composing a detailed letter outlining an individual’s skills, experience, and character, then attaching these files or embedding the text within an email to a prospective employer or institution. For example, a former supervisor might draft a letter of recommendation in Microsoft Word, save it as a PDF, and then attach this PDF file to an email addressed to the hiring manager at a company where their former employee is applying.
Facilitating the swift and efficient evaluation of candidates is a significant advantage of this method. Its accessibility allows for timely submission, often crucial in competitive application processes. Historically, physical letters were the norm, leading to delays and logistical challenges. Electronic transmission streamlines this process, enabling faster decision-making and reducing administrative burdens for both the applicant and the recipient.