A neutral reference letter from an employer is a document written by a former employer that does not contain any positive or negative comments about the employee. This type of reference letter is often requested by employees who may have had a difficult working relationship with their previous employer, or by employers who want to avoid potential legal issues.
Tips for Writing a Neutral Reference Letter
When writing a neutral reference letter, it’s important to remember that you should not provide any personal opinions or evaluations about the employee. Here are some tips to help you write an effective neutral reference letter:
- Start with a clear and concise opening statement that explains the purpose of the letter.
- Acknowledge the employee’s request for a neutral reference letter.
- Focus on the employee’s job responsibilities and work history, rather than their personal qualities or character.
- Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as positive or negative evaluations of the employee.
- Provide specific examples of the employee’s work performance, if possible.
- Offer to provide additional information if needed.
You can find examples of neutral reference letters online and edit them as needed to fit your specific circumstances. Just be sure to read them carefully to ensure that they are truly neutral and don’t contain any statements that could be interpreted as positive or negative evaluations of the employee.
Examples of Neutral Reference Letters
Neutral Reference Letter for a Salesperson
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to confirm that [Employee Name] worked as a salesperson for our company from [Date] to [Date]. During their time with us, they were responsible for [Job Responsibilities], and consistently met or exceeded their sales targets.
While I cannot comment on [Employee Name]’s personal qualities, I can say that they were a professional and reliable employee who always fulfilled their job duties to the best of their abilities.
If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Neutral Reference Letter for an Accountant
Dear Sir/Madam,
This letter is to confirm that [Employee Name] worked as an accountant with our company from [Date] to [Date]. During their tenure, they were responsible for [Job Responsibilities], and consistently performed their duties in a professional and timely manner.
While I cannot provide any additional commentary on [Employee Name]’s personal qualities, I can confirm that they were an asset to our team and fulfilled their duties to the best of their abilities at all times.
If you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Neutral Reference Letter for a Receptionist
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to confirm that [Employee Name] worked as a receptionist with our company from [Date] to [Date]. During their time with us, they were responsible for [Job Responsibilities], and consistently provided excellent customer service to our clients.
While I cannot comment on [Employee Name]’s personal qualities, I can say that they were a reliable and conscientious employee who always fulfilled their job duties to the best of their abilities.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Neutral Reference Letter for a Marketing Manager
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to confirm that [Employee Name] worked as a marketing manager with our company from [Date] to [Date]. During their time with us, they were responsible for [Job Responsibilities], and consistently demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills.
While I cannot provide any additional commentary on [Employee Name]’s personal qualities, I can confirm that they were a dedicated and hardworking employee who always fulfilled their duties to the best of their abilities.
If you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Neutral Reference Letter for a Software Developer
Dear Hiring Manager,
This letter is to confirm that [Employee Name] worked as a software developer with our company from [Date] to [Date]. During their time with us, they were responsible for [Job Responsibilities], and consistently produced high-quality code that met our clients’ needs.
While I cannot comment on [Employee Name]’s personal qualities, I can say that they were a knowledgeable and skilled employee who always fulfilled their job duties to the best of their abilities.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Neutral Reference Letter for a Human Resources Manager
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to confirm that [Employee Name] worked as a human resources manager with our company from [Date] to [Date]. During their time with us, they were responsible for [Job Responsibilities], and consistently demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills.
While I cannot provide any additional commentary on [Employee Name]’s personal qualities, I can confirm that they were a dedicated and hardworking employee who always fulfilled their duties to the best of their abilities.
If you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Neutral Reference Letter for a Customer Service Representative
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to confirm that [Employee Name] worked as a customer service representative with our company from [Date] to [Date]. During their time with us, they were responsible for [Job Responsibilities], and consistently provided excellent customer service to our clients.
While I cannot comment on [Employee Name]’s personal qualities, I can say that they were a reliable and conscientious employee who always fulfilled their job duties to the best of their abilities.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a neutral reference letter?
A neutral reference letter is a document written by an employer that does not contain any positive or negative comments about the employee. This type of reference letter is often requested by employees who may have had a difficult working relationship with their previous employer or by employers who want to avoid potential legal issues.
What should be included in a neutral reference letter?
A neutral reference letter should include a clear and concise opening statement, an acknowledgement of the employee’s request for a neutral reference, a focus on the employee’s job responsibilities and work history, and the offer of additional information if needed. It should not include any personal opinions or evaluations of the employee.
Can a neutral reference letter hurt an employee’s chances of getting a job?
No, a neutral reference letter should not hurt an employee’s chances of getting a job. While it may not provide positive comments about the employee, it also should not provide negative comments that could harm their job prospects.
Can an employer refuse to provide a neutral reference letter?
Yes, an employer is not legally required to provide a reference letter for an employee. However, if they do choose to provide one, it should be truthful and accurate.
How should a neutral reference letter be signed?
A neutral reference letter should be signed with the employer’s name, title, and contact information.
Can a neutral reference letter be used in court?
Yes, a neutral reference letter can be used in court as evidence in a legal case. However, if the letter contains any false statements, the employer could be held liable for defamation or other legal issues.
Conclusion
A neutral reference letter from an employer can be a useful tool for employees and employers alike. By following these tips and examples, you can create an effective neutral reference letter that provides accurate information without making any positive or negative evaluations of the employee.