When someone asks you to write a reference letter knowing person, it means they require a letter of recommendation that is based on your personal knowledge of the candidate. This letter is different from a professional reference letter where you are asked to attest to the candidate’s work abilities.
If you have been asked to provide a reference letter knowing person, you should carefully consider the request and ensure that you can provide an honest and positive assessment of the candidate. Below are some tips on how to write a reference letter knowing person and seven examples that you can use as a guide. You can also find examples online and edit them as needed.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter Knowing Person
Here are some tips on how to write an effective reference letter for someone you know personally:
1. Be Honest and Specific
When writing a reference letter, it is important to be honest and specific about the candidate’s traits and abilities. Give examples of your interactions with the candidate and highlight their positive attributes.
For example, if the candidate is applying for a job that requires excellent communication skills, you can mention specific instances where you witnessed their excellent communication skills.
2. Use a Formal Tone
A reference letter is a formal document, and you should use a formal tone when writing it. Use proper salutations and sign off with a formal closing.
3. Keep it Concise
A reference letter should be no longer than one page. Keep it concise and to the point. Only include information that is relevant to the position or opportunity that the candidate is applying for.
4. Highlight Relevant Experience
If the candidate has relevant experience or skills that would make them a good fit for the position, be sure to highlight these in your reference letter.
5. Include Your Contact Information
Include your contact information in the reference letter so that the recipient can follow up with you if necessary.
6. Edit and Proofread
Before sending the reference letter, make sure to edit and proofread it. Check for grammar and spelling errors and ensure that the letter is properly formatted.
Examples of Reference Letter Knowing Person
Letter of Reference for Graduate School
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend John Smith for admission to your graduate program in engineering. I have known John for five years, and during this time, he has displayed a strong work ethic and an exceptional ability to solve complex problems.
John has a keen interest in engineering and has taken on several challenging projects during his undergraduate studies. He has a natural talent for project management and is able to work collaboratively with others to achieve his goals.
I am confident that John will be an asset to your graduate program and will make significant contributions to your community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
Mary Johnson
Letter of Reference for Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing this letter to recommend Jane Doe for the position of Marketing Manager at your company. I have had the pleasure of working with Jane for three years, and during this time, I have been consistently impressed by her creativity, dedication, and professionalism.
Jane has a unique ability to understand the needs of the target audience and create marketing campaigns that resonate with them. She is a skilled communicator and is able to work collaboratively with others to achieve her goals.
I am confident that Jane will be an asset to your team and will make significant contributions to your organization. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Best regards,
John Smith
Letter of Reference for Volunteer Work
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing this letter to recommend Sarah Brown for volunteer work at your organization. I have known Sarah for two years, and during this time, I have witnessed her selflessness and dedication to helping others.
Sarah has volunteered at several organizations in the past and has always approached her work with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. She is a natural leader and is able to inspire others to join her in her efforts.
I am confident that Sarah will make an excellent addition to your team and will make a positive impact on the community you serve. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
David Lee
Letter of Reference for College Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend Michael Johnson for admission to your college. I have been Michael’s soccer coach for the past three years, and during this time, I have been consistently impressed by his talent, discipline, and teamwork.
Michael is a natural athlete and has excelled in soccer throughout his high school career. He is also a dedicated student and has maintained a high GPA despite his demanding extracurricular schedule.
I am confident that Michael will be an asset to your college and will make significant contributions to your athletic program. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Best regards,
Emily Wilson
Letter of Reference for Scholarship Application
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing this letter to recommend Maria Gonzalez for your scholarship program. I have had the pleasure of teaching Maria for two years, and during this time, I have been consistently impressed by her intelligence, hard work, and dedication to her studies.
Maria is a gifted student and has consistently earned high grades in all her classes. She is also an active member of her community and has volunteered at several organizations in the past.
I am confident that Maria will make an excellent recipient for your scholarship and will use the funds to further her education and make a positive impact on the world.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Brown
Letter of Reference for Housing Application
Dear Manager,
I am writing this letter to recommend Tom Johnson and his family for your housing program. I have been Tom’s neighbor for five years, and during this time, I have been consistently impressed by his friendliness, cleanliness, and responsibility.
Tom is a great neighbor and has always been respectful of the people around him. He is also a neat person and has always kept his house and yard in good condition. In addition, he is a responsible father and a great role model for his children.
I am confident that Tom and his family will be excellent tenants and will make a positive contribution to your community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Best regards,
Jessica Lee
Letter of Reference for Immigration Application
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing this letter to recommend Maria Hernandez for immigration to your country. I have been Maria’s employer for two years, and during this time, I have been consistently impressed by her hard work, honesty, and dedication to her job.
Maria is a skilled worker and has been a valuable member of our team. She is also a responsible person and has always followed the rules and regulations of our company.
I am confident that Maria will make an excellent addition to your country and will make a positive contribution to your society. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include details about the candidate’s abilities, personality traits, and achievements. You should also include your contact information in case the recipient wants to follow up with you.
How should I start a reference letter?
You should start a reference letter by greeting the recipient and introducing yourself. Then, you should state your relationship with the candidate and how long you have known them.
What should I avoid in a reference letter?
You should avoid exaggerating the candidate’s abilities or including information that is not relevant to the position or opportunity that they are applying for. You should also avoid including negative information about the candidate.
Can I decline a request to write a reference letter?
Yes, you can decline a request to write a reference letter if you do not feel comfortable providing an honest and positive assessment of the candidate.
Do I need to use formal language in a reference letter?
Yes, a reference letter is a formal document, and you should use formal language when writing it. Use proper salutations and sign off with a formal closing.
Can I use a reference letter as a template?
Yes, you can use a reference letter as a template and edit it as needed. However, make sure that the letter is personalized and includes specific details about the candidate’s abilities and achievements.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter knowing person can be a challenging task, but it is also an opportunity to help someone take the next step in their career or personal life. By following the tips outlined above and using the examples provided, you can create a reference letter that is both honest and positive, and that will help the candidate stand out from the crowd.