Writing an External Letter of Review for Promotion

Suzanne Minor, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, University Park, FL.
Sarah E. Stumbar, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, University Park, FL.
Joanna Drowos, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL.
Jennifer Hartmark-Hill, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ.
Victoria Hayes, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME.
Jeanne Cawse-Lucas, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
Parvathi Perumareddi, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL.

Abstract

Academic promotion, representing achievement of a level of distinction in one's body of work, is an honorable accomplishment in a faculty member's career. External letters of review written by faculty at higher ranks are a critical component of the promotion portfolio. We discuss key considerations for writing external letters. These considerations can be used to mentor this skill for less experienced letter writers. We also highlight how professional societies can aid faculty in developing and strengthening writing and mentoring capabilities for this vital task.