An effective recommendation should be constructive by offering solutions rather than just problems, specific in identifying both strengths and weaknesses, measurable so progress can be determined, sensitive by keeping comments positive and avoiding negativity, and balanced by pointing out both strengths and weaknesses.

1. 5
Characteristics
of an Effective
Recommendation
Colleen Fleming

2. CONSTRUCTIVE
Recommendations should offer
solutions instead of just
identifying problems.

3. SPECIFIC
Be specific when writing
recommendations, both about
the areas that are done well
and the areas that need
improvement.

4. MEASURABLE
Recommendations should be
measurable so that it will be
evident when changes have
been made.

5. SENSITIVE
Keep recommendations and
comments on a positive note
and avoid any negativity.

6. BALANCED
Remember to point out
strengths as well as
weaknesses.