As a human resources professional, you may be asked to write a reference letter for an employee or colleague. A reference letter is a formal document that provides insight into the skills, experience, and character of the person being recommended. In this article, we will provide tips for writing an effective reference letter and seven examples. You can use these examples as a starting point and edit them as needed.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter Human Resources
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to keep in mind the purpose of the letter and the intended audience. Here are some tips to help you write an effective reference letter:
- Start with a clear and concise introduction that includes the name of the person you are recommending, your relationship with them, and the purpose of the letter.
- Include specific examples of the person’s skills, experience, and achievements that relate to the position or opportunity they are applying for.
- Use professional language and tone throughout the letter.
- Be honest and provide a balanced assessment of the person’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Include your contact information and be available to answer any follow-up questions.
Seven Examples of Reference Letter Human Resources
Reference Letter for a Former Employee
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing to recommend [Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. I had the pleasure of working with [Name] for [Number] years at [Company Name], where they demonstrated exceptional [Skill/Characteristic]. [Provide specific examples]. I have no doubt that [Name] would be an asset to your team and I highly recommend them for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Current Employee
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing to recommend [Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. As [Position] at [Company Name], I have had the pleasure of working with [Name] for [Number] years and can attest to their exceptional [Skill/Characteristic]. [Provide specific examples]. I am confident that [Name] would be an asset to your team and I highly recommend them for this opportunity.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Colleague
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing to recommend [Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. As a colleague at [Company Name], I have had the opportunity to work closely with [Name] and can attest to their exceptional [Skill/Characteristic]. [Provide specific examples]. I highly recommend [Name] for this opportunity and am confident that they would be an asset to your team.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for an Intern
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing to recommend [Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. As [Position] at [Company Name], I had the pleasure of supervising [Name] during their [Duration] internship with our organization. During this time, [Name] demonstrated exceptional [Skill/Characteristic]. [Provide specific examples]. I highly recommend [Name] for this opportunity and am confident that they would be an asset to your team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Graduate School Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Name] for admission to your graduate program in [Field of Study]. As [Position/Relationship] of [Name], I have had the opportunity to work closely with them and can attest to their exceptional [Skill/Characteristic]. [Provide specific examples]. I am confident that [Name] would excel in your program and highly recommend them for admission.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Volunteer
Dear [Hiring Manager/Admissions Committee],
I am writing to recommend [Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. As [Position/Relationship] of [Name], I have had the pleasure of working with them as a volunteer at [Organization Name]. [Name] demonstrated exceptional [Skill/Characteristic] during their time with us. [Provide specific examples]. I highly recommend [Name] for this opportunity and am confident that they would be an asset to your team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for a Scholarship Application
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Name] for your [Scholarship Name]. As [Position/Relationship] of [Name], I have had the opportunity to work closely with them and can attest to their exceptional [Skill/Characteristic]. [Provide specific examples]. I highly recommend [Name] for this scholarship and am confident that they would make the most of this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reference letter?
A reference letter is a formal document written by a professional, such as a supervisor or colleague, that provides insight into the skills, experience, and character of the person being recommended. The purpose of a reference letter is to support a job application, scholarship application, or other opportunity.
What should be included in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include an introduction that explains your relationship with the person being recommended and the purpose of the letter. It should also include specific examples of the person’s skills, experience, and achievements that are relevant to the opportunity they are applying for. The letter should be professional in tone and provide a balanced assessment of the person’s strengths and weaknesses.
What is the difference between a reference letter and a recommendation letter?
A reference letter and a recommendation letter are similar in that they both provide insight into a person’s skills, experience, and character. However, a reference letter is typically written by a professional who has worked with the person being recommended, while a recommendation letter may be written by a personal acquaintance.
How long should a reference letter be?
A reference letter should be one to two pages in length, depending on the specific requirements of the opportunity being applied for. The letter should be concise and focused, with specific examples that support the person being recommended.
Should a reference letter be handwritten or typed?
A reference letter should be typed or printed on professional letterhead. Handwritten letters may be appropriate in some circumstances, but a typed letter is generally preferred for its clarity and professionalism.
Can a reference letter be submitted online?
Yes, many organizations now accept reference letters submitted online as part of the application process. Be sure to follow the specific instructions provided by the organization and submit the letter in the required format.
Conclusion
Writing an effective reference letter can be an important part of supporting a job application, scholarship application, or other opportunity. By following these tips and using our examples as a starting point, you can create a letter that provides valuable insight into the skills, experience, and character of the person being recommended.