If you’ve been asked to write a reference letter for a friend, it can be a bit overwhelming. You want to help your friend, but you might not be sure what to say or how to say it. In this article, we’ll give you some tips and examples to help you write a great reference letter for your friend.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter By Friend
When writing a reference letter for a friend, keep these tips in mind:
Be honest: You want to help your friend, but you shouldn’t exaggerate or make things up. Be honest in your letter.
Be specific: Use specific examples to support your points. Don’t just say your friend is “great” or “hardworking.” Give examples of how they’ve demonstrated these qualities.
Be professional: Even though you’re writing a letter for a friend, it’s important to keep it professional. Use a formal tone and avoid slang or casual language.
Edit and proofread: Before you send your letter, make sure you’ve edited and proofread it carefully. You want to make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
If you’re not sure where to start, you can find examples of reference letters online and edit them as needed. Just make sure that the letter is still personalized and specific to your friend’s situation.
Examples of Reference Letters By Friend
Reference Letter for Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
I’m writing to recommend my friend, Jane Smith, for the open position at your company. I’ve known Jane for five years and can vouch for her excellent work ethic and attention to detail.
During the time I’ve known Jane, she’s worked as a project manager and consistently exceeded her goals. She’s a great communicator and always makes sure that everyone is on the same page. I’m confident that she would make a valuable addition to your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Reference Letter for Graduate School Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I’m writing to recommend my friend, Tom Jones, for admission to your graduate program in business.
I’ve known Tom for six years and have watched him grow both academically and professionally. He’s a hardworking and dedicated individual who always goes above and beyond what is expected of him. Tom also has strong leadership skills and is able to work well in a team environment.
I believe that Tom’s academic background and work experience make him an excellent candidate for your program. He is passionate about business and eager to learn more. I’m confident that he would thrive in your program and make valuable contributions to your community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Reference Letter for Rental Application
Dear Landlord,
I’m writing to recommend my friend, Sarah Johnson, as a tenant in your property. I’ve known Sarah for three years and can personally attest to her reliability and responsibility.
During the time I’ve known Sarah, she’s always been a great roommate and has consistently paid her bills on time. She’s also very clean and respectful of shared spaces. I’m confident that she would make an excellent tenant for your property.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Tom Jones
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a reference letter for a friend?
You should include specific examples that demonstrate your friend’s skills and qualities. You should also include your contact information in case the recipient has any questions.
How long should a reference letter for a friend be?
A reference letter for a friend should be about one page long, or 300 to 500 words. It should be concise and to the point.
Can I write a reference letter for a friend if I’m not an employer?
Yes, you can write a reference letter for a friend even if you’re not their employer. You can write a letter that speaks to their character and qualities.
Should I address the letter to a specific person?
If possible, you should address the letter to a specific person. This shows that you’ve taken the time to do your research and personalize the letter. If you don’t know the recipient’s name, you can use a generic greeting like “To Whom It May Concern.”
Do I need to sign the reference letter?
Yes, you should sign the reference letter to show that it’s authentic. You should also include your contact information in case the recipient has any questions.
Can I send the reference letter by email?
Yes, you can send the reference letter by email. However, you should ask the recipient if they have any specific formatting requirements before you send it.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter for a friend can be a bit daunting, but with these tips and examples, you should be able to create a letter that helps your friend achieve their goals. Remember to be honest, specific, and professional, and to edit and proofread your letter carefully before you send it.