If you have ever been asked to write a reference letter, you know how difficult it can be to come up with the right words to describe someone’s talents, skills, and personality. Fortunately, a general reference letter template can help guide you through the process of writing an effective letter.
By using a reference letter template, you can save time and ensure that your letter is well-organized and professional. With just a few tweaks, you can tailor the template to fit the specific needs of your situation.
Tips for Writing a General Reference Letter Template
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using a general reference letter template:
1. Customize the template to fit your needs
While a general reference letter template can be a great starting point, it’s important to customize it to fit your specific needs. Make sure you include information that is relevant to the job, program, or opportunity the applicant is applying for.
2. Use specific examples
Avoid vague or general statements that could apply to anyone. Instead, use specific examples that demonstrate the applicant’s skills and abilities. These examples will help to paint a clearer picture of the applicant’s strengths.
3. Be positive and enthusiastic
Use positive language and express enthusiasm for the applicant’s potential. This can help to create a strong impression and demonstrate your confidence in the applicant’s abilities.
Examples of General Reference Letter Templates
Reference Letter for a Job Applicant
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Job Title] position at your company. During their time working with me at [Previous Company], [Applicant’s Name] consistently demonstrated exceptional [Skill/Quality].
[Example of how the applicant demonstrated their skill/quality].
I strongly believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your team and I wholeheartedly recommend them for the position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Graduate School Applicant
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission to [Graduate Program Name] at [University]. During their time as a student in my [Class Name] class, [Applicant’s Name] demonstrated a strong aptitude and passion for [Field/Subject of Study].
[Example of how the applicant demonstrated their aptitude and passion].
I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will excel in your program and make valuable contributions to the field. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Volunteer
Dear [Organization Name] Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for future volunteer opportunities with your organization. During their time volunteering with us at [Organization Name], [Applicant’s Name] consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to [Cause/Project].
[Example of how the applicant demonstrated their work ethic and dedication].
I would highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a volunteer for your organization. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Scholarship Applicant
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. During their time as a student in my [Class Name] class, [Applicant’s Name] consistently demonstrated a strong academic record and dedication to [Field/Subject of Study].
[Example of how the applicant demonstrated their academic record and dedication].
I have no doubt that [Applicant’s Name] will continue to excel academically and make valuable contributions to the field. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Tenant
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant for your rental property. During their time living in my rental property at [Address], [Applicant’s Name] consistently exhibited a strong sense of responsibility and respect for the property.
[Example of how the applicant demonstrated responsibility and respect].
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Colleague
Dear [Colleague’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for [Opportunity]. During our time working together at [Company], I have been consistently impressed with [Applicant’s Name]’s [Skill/Quality].
[Example of how the applicant demonstrated their skill/quality].
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for [Opportunity]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Personal Reference
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a personal reference. [Applicant’s Name] has been a close friend of mine for [Length of Time] and during this time, I have seen firsthand their [Skill/Quality].
[Example of how the applicant demonstrated their skill/quality].
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a personal reference. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I write a reference letter?
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to include specific examples that demonstrate the applicant’s skills and abilities. Use positive language and express enthusiasm for the applicant’s potential. Customize the letter to fit the specific needs of the job, program, or opportunity the applicant is applying for.
What should I include in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include the applicant’s name and the purpose of the letter. It should also include specific examples that demonstrate the applicant’s skills and abilities, as well as your recommendation for the applicant. Finally, it should include your contact information in case the recipient has any further questions.
What information should I not include in a reference letter?
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to avoid including any personal information about the applicant that is not relevant to the purpose of the letter. This includes information about the applicant’s race, religion, age, marital status, and any disabilities they may have.
How long should a reference letter be?
A reference letter should be no longer than one page. Keep the letter concise and to the point, focusing on the applicant’s skills and abilities that are relevant to the purpose of the letter.
Who should I address the reference letter to?
The reference letter should be addressed to the person or organization that requested it. If you are not sure who to address the letter to, you can use a general salutation such as “To Whom It May Concern”.
What should I do if I can’t write a positive reference letter?
If you are unable to write a positive reference letter for an applicant, it’s best to decline the request. Be honest with the requester and explain that you are not able to provide a positive reference. It’s better to decline the request than to write a negative reference letter.
Conclusion
Using a general reference letter template can help guide you through the process of writing an effective letter. By customizing the template to fit your specific needs and using specific examples, you can create a strong and professional letter that highlights the applicant’s strengths and potential.