When someone asks you to write a reference letter for them, it can be a bit overwhelming. You want to make sure you do a good job, but you might not know where to start. In this article, we’ll go over some tips for writing a great reference letter, as well as provide you with some examples that you can use as a starting point.
If you’ve been asked to write a reference letter for someone, it means they trust you and value your opinion. A reference letter is a formal document that confirms the character, work ethic, and skills of the person you’re writing about. In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to write a great reference letter, as well as provide some examples to help you get started.
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to be honest and specific. You want to paint a clear picture of the person you’re writing about, and provide examples of their skills and accomplishments. Your letter should be well-structured and easy to read, with an opening that introduces who you are and how you know the person you’re writing about, a body that provides specific examples of their skills and character, and a closing that summarizes your recommendation and provides your contact information.
If you’re not sure where to start, you can find examples of reference letters online and edit them as needed. Just be sure to personalize your letter and make it specific to the person you’re writing about.
Tips for Writing a Great Reference Letter
Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing a reference letter:
1. Be Specific
Provide specific examples of the person’s skills, accomplishments, and character. Use concrete examples whenever possible, and avoid generalizations.
2. Be Honest
Be honest about the person’s strengths and weaknesses. If there are areas where they need to improve, mention them, but also provide examples of how they’re working to improve.
3. Be Professional
Use a professional tone and format. Your letter should be well-structured and easy to read, with no typos or grammatical errors.
4. Be Personal
Personalize your letter and make it specific to the person you’re writing about. Mention how you know them and why you’re recommending them.
5. Provide Contact Information
Include your contact information in your closing, so that the person reading your letter can follow up with any questions they may have.
Examples
Reference Letter for a Job Applicant
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend John Smith for the position of Marketing Manager at your company. I have known John for three years, and during that time, he has consistently impressed me with his marketing skills and his ability to work well under pressure.
John is an excellent communicator and has a talent for developing creative marketing strategies that get results. He is also a team player and is always willing to go above and beyond to help his colleagues.
I have no doubt that John would be an asset to your team and would excel in the role of Marketing Manager. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Reference Letter for a Student
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend Sarah Johnson for admission to your university. I have known Sarah for four years, and during that time, she has impressed me with her academic achievements, her leadership skills, and her commitment to community service.
Sarah is an exceptional student who consistently earns top grades and is always willing to help her classmates. She is also a natural leader who has served as the president of our school’s student council for the past two years.
In addition to her academic and leadership achievements, Sarah is deeply committed to community service. She has volunteered at a local homeless shelter for the past two years and has organized several fundraising events to support the shelter’s work.
I have no doubt that Sarah would be an excellent addition to your university community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Reference Letter for a Colleague
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Lisa Brown for the position of Senior Project Manager at your company. I have had the pleasure of working with Lisa for five years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed with her leadership skills, her ability to manage complex projects, and her commitment to her team.
Lisa is an excellent project manager who is able to keep projects on track and within budget. She is also a strong communicator who is able to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Most importantly, Lisa is a great colleague who is always willing to lend a hand when needed. She is a team player who is able to motivate her team to achieve great results.
I have no doubt that Lisa would be an excellent Senior Project Manager at your company. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Reference Letter for a Volunteer
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend David Kim for the position of Volunteer of the Year at your organization. I have had the pleasure of working with David for the past two years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed with his commitment to your organization and his dedication to community service.
David is a passionate volunteer who has logged over 500 hours of service with your organization. He is always willing to take on new projects and to help out in any way he can.
In addition to his commitment to your organization, David is also deeply committed to other community service efforts. He has volunteered at a local food bank for the past year and has organized several fundraising events to support the food bank’s work.
I have no doubt that David would be an excellent choice for Volunteer of the Year. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Reference Letter for a Tenant
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend Jason Lee as a tenant. Jason has been a tenant in my rental property for the past two years, and during that time, he has been an excellent tenant.
Jason is a responsible tenant who always pays his rent on time and takes good care of the property. He is also a friendly and considerate neighbor who gets along well with other tenants.
I have no hesitation in recommending Jason as a tenant. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Reference Letter for a Contractor
Dear Homeowner,
I am writing to recommend Mark Johnson as a contractor. Mark has worked on several projects at my home over the past year, including remodeling my kitchen and building a deck in my backyard.
Mark is a skilled contractor who takes pride in his work. He is always professional and respectful, and he communicates well throughout every project.
In addition to his skill and professionalism, Mark is also a pleasure to work with. He listens carefully to his clients’ needs and makes sure that every project is completed to their satisfaction.
I have no hesitation in recommending Mark as a contractor. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should Be Included in a Reference Letter?
A reference letter should include an introduction that introduces who you are and how you know the person you’re writing about, a body that provides specific examples of their skills and character, and a closing that summarizes your recommendation and provides your contact information.
How Long Should a Reference Letter Be?
A reference letter should be one page or less. It should be well-structured and easy to read, with no typos or grammatical errors.
What Should I Say in a Reference Letter?
In a reference letter, you should provide specific examples of the person’s skills and character, and explain why you’re recommending them. You should also mention how you know them and provide your contact information.
Can I Refuse to Write a Reference Letter?
Yes, you can refuse to write a reference letter if you don’t feel comfortable doing so. However, it’s important to be honest with the person who asked you and explain your reasons for refusing.
Can I Use a Template for a Reference Letter?
Yes, you can use a template for a reference letter, but be sure to personalize it and make it specific to the person you’re writing about. Avoid using generic templates that don’t provide any specific examples or information.
Do I Need to Include my Contact Information in a Reference Letter?
Yes, it’s important to include your contact information in your closing so that the person reading your letter can follow up with any questions they may have.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter can seem daunting, but with the right tips and examples, it can be a straightforward process. Remember to be honest, specific, and professional, and personalize your letter to the person you’re writing about. By following these guidelines, you can help your friend or colleague achieve their goals and succeed in their endeavors.