A Letter of Recommendation

To: The Hiring Manager at Spotify
Birger Jarlsgatan 61, 4tr
113 56 Stockholm Sweden
Reg no: 556786-5729

From: Mike Rowe, USA.

Re: Open Position – Digital Audio Specialist

Dear Sir/Madam

I’m writing on behalf of Tom Kelly, a talented audio engineer in the US who has recently applied for the position referenced above.

Several years ago, I invited fans of my TV show to recreate the show’s theme song in a version and style that resonated most with them. Almost immediately, Tom responded with a completely unique and totally unexpected rendition. I put Tom’s version in the show back in Season 1, and we’ve remained in touch ever since.

Tom’s skills, education, and experience are perfectly suited for the job at hand. He’s a musician by trade, with a Fine Arts Degree in audio production. He also possesses a deep understanding of music production, from both a technical and creative perspective. But those are mere qualifications. What really sets Tom apart, is his attitude. In short, Tom Kelly will work his ass off.

As an employer myself, I know how hard it can be to hire people with the right mix of creativity, initiative, and basic work ethic. Those qualities are in short supply. Worse, they can not be discerned from looking at a resume, or accurately predicted on the basis of an interview. But trust me, Tom is living proof that such qualities still exist.

I run a modest foundation that awards Work Ethic Scholarships to people looking for careers in the construction and technical trades. Had Tom applied back when he was in school for a scholarship from mikeroweWORKS, he’d would have almost certainly have received one. And if there were a position open on my own crew or in my office – any position – I’d hire Tom in a heartbeat.

To sum up, Tom Kelly is the person you’re looking for. He’s 25 years old, hipper than I’ll ever be, ridiculously talented, oddly responsible, and totally qualified for the job. He’ll also relocate at the drop of a hat. Currently, Tom is working as a craftsman and a carpenter, and paying off his student loans. He makes custom furniture, and he’s damn good at it. But his true love is music, and I can assure you with no reservations, his talent and passion would make him invaluable to Spotify.

To sum up, Tom Kelly is the person you’re looking for. He’s 25 years old, hipper than I’ll ever be, ridiculously talented, oddly responsible, and totally qualified for the job. He’ll also relocate at the drop of a hat. Currently, Tom is working as a craftsman and a carpenter, and paying off his student loans. He makes custom furniture, and he’s damn good at it. But his true love is music, and I can assure you with no reservations, his talent and passion would make him invaluable to Spotify.

Sincerely,
Mike Rowe
Creator/Host
“Dirty Jobs,” and “Somebody’s Gotta Do It”
CEO mikeroweWORKS Foundation

PS. Historically, I’ve been late to the digital party, but this week, you’ll be pleased to know I’m signing up for your service. Tom tells me I have no idea what I’ve been missing…

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