Lexicon of Inconspicuously Ambiguous Recommendations.

("LIAR")
by Robert Thornton, professor of Economics
Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA

LIAR is not only useful in preserving friendships, but it also can help avoid serious legal trouble in a time when laws have eroded the confidentiality of letters of recommendation. In most states job applicants have the right to read the letters of recommendations and can even file suit against the writer if the contents are negative. When the writer uses LIAR, however, whether perceived correctly or not by the candidate, the phrases are virtually litigation-proof.

Lazy: "In my opinion, you will be very fortunate to get this person to work for you."

Inept: "I most enthusiastically recommend this candidate with no qualifications whatsoever."

Combative: "I am pleased to say that this candidate is a former colleague of mine."

Unproductive: "I can assure you that no person would be better for the job."

Not worth further consideration: "I would urge you to waste no time in making this candidate an offer of employment."

Lackluster credentials: "All in all, I cannot say enough good things about this candidate or recommend him too highly."


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