When writing a reference letter, the question of whether or not to sign it can be confusing. Below are some tips and examples to help guide you through the process.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter
Before diving into examples, it’s important to have some general tips on writing a reference letter:
- Be honest and specific in your praise of the person you are writing about.
- Include your contact information so the recipient can follow up with any questions.
- If you choose to sign the letter, make sure to do so in blue or black ink.
- Remember that you are vouching for someone’s character and abilities, so take the task seriously.
Readers can find examples of reference letters below, but should edit them as needed to fit their specific situation.
Reference Letter for a Job Applicant
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the role of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. In my time working with [Applicant’s Name], I have been consistently impressed with their [skills and qualities]. Specifically, [provide specific examples of the applicant’s abilities and how they would be beneficial to the company].
I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] would be an asset to your team and would thrive in the position of [Job Title]. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Reference Letter for a Graduate School Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission to [Graduate School Name] for [Program Name]. As [Applicant’s Name]’s [position or relationship to you], I have had the pleasure of working with them on [project or in what capacity].
[Applicant’s Name]’s [skills and qualities] are exemplary and would be an asset to your program. They have a keen intellect and a strong work ethic that make them an ideal candidate for graduate study. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] would excel in your program and would be a great addition to your community.
Please let me know if you have any questions or require further information.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Title]
Reference Letter for a Volunteer
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Volunteer’s Name] for volunteer work with [Organization Name]. [Volunteer’s Name] has been a dedicated volunteer with our organization for [length of time] and has always gone above and beyond in their responsibilities.
[Volunteer’s Name]’s [skills and qualities] make them an essential part of our team. They are reliable, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand wherever needed. Their positive attitude and willingness to learn have made them a pleasure to work with.
I strongly recommend [Volunteer’s Name] for any volunteer position they may be interested in with your organization.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Title]
Reference Letter for a Student
Dear [Admissions Committee/ Scholarship Committee],
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] for [admission/scholarship]. [Student’s Name] has been a student in my [class/club/etc.] for [length of time] and has consistently demonstrated [skills and qualities].
[Student’s Name] is an exceptional student with a passion for [subject or extracurricular activity]. They have impressed me with their [specific examples of the student’s achievements or contributions]. I have no doubt that [Student’s Name] will excel in [college/scholarship program/etc.] and make valuable contributions to your community.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Reference Letter for a Colleague
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Colleague’s Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Colleague’s Name] for [length of time] and have been consistently impressed with their [skills and qualities].
[Colleague’s Name] is a talented [position or job title] with a strong work ethic and a dedication to [specific work-related values or goals]. They have been an asset to our team and have consistently demonstrated their ability to [specific examples of the colleague’s achievements or contributions].
I am confident that [Colleague’s Name] would be an asset to your team and would thrive in the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Title]
Reference Letter for a Tenant
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant in your property. [Tenant’s Name] has been a tenant in my property for [length of time] and has been an exemplary tenant in every way.
[Tenant’s Name] has always been respectful of the property and has taken excellent care of it. They are quiet, clean, and a pleasure to work with. They always pay their rent on time and have been a reliable tenant throughout their time with us.
I highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Title]
Reference Letter for a Personal Contact
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Name of Person Being Recommended] for any opportunities that may be available to them. [Name of Person Being Recommended] is a [relationship to you] and has always impressed me with their [skills and qualities].
[Name of Person Being Recommended] is a [specific examples of the person’s achievements or contributions]. They are [adjectives that describe their character or work ethic] and are always willing to go above and beyond to help others.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign a reference letter?
It is not required to sign a reference letter, but it can lend credibility to the letter and show that you stand by your words. If you choose to sign the letter, make sure to do so in blue or black ink.
Can I write a reference letter if I don’t know the person well?
If you do not know the person well, it is best to decline to write a reference letter. A weak or unsupportive letter can harm the person’s chances of getting the job or opportunity they are seeking.
What should I include in a reference letter?
A good reference letter should include specific examples of the person’s skills and qualities that make them a good fit for the job or opportunity they are seeking. It should also be honest and show that you have confidence in the person.
Can I use a reference letter from a previous job for a new job application?
It is generally okay to use a reference letter from a previous job, but make sure that the letter is still relevant and speaks to the skills and qualities required for the new job. If possible, try to obtain a more recent letter that specifically addresses the person’s qualifications for the new job.
Can I write a letter for myself and have someone else sign it?
No, it is not ethical to write a letter for yourself and have someone else sign it. Reference letters should be written by someone who knows the person being recommended and can speak to their skills and qualities.
Can I write a reference letter for family members?
It is generally not recommended to write a reference letter for a family member, as it can be perceived as biased. If you do choose to write a letter, make sure to be honest and objective in your praise of the person.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter can be a valuable way to help someone achieve their goals, but it’s important to do it right. Follow the tips and examples above to make sure your letter is effective and helpful in supporting the person you are recommending.