If you’re applying for a new job, you may be required to provide a reference letter from your previous employer. This letter serves as a confirmation of your work experience and skills, which can help potential employers make an informed decision on your application. In this article, you’ll find tips on how to write a letter requesting a reference from your previous employer, as well as some examples that you can use as a basis for your own letter.
Tips on Writing a Letter Requesting Reference From Previous Employer
If you’re planning to request a reference from your previous employer, here are some tips that you can follow:
Tip 1: Use a Professional Tone
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to use a professional tone. Avoid using informal language or slang, and make sure to keep your tone respectful and professional throughout the letter.
Tip 2: Provide Relevant Information
Make sure to provide all the relevant information that your previous employer may need in order to write an effective reference letter. This includes your job title, the dates of your employment, and a brief description of your duties and responsibilities.
Tip 3: Offer to Provide Additional Information
When requesting a reference letter, it’s always a good idea to offer to provide additional information if needed. This shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile to help your previous employer write an effective letter.
Sample Letter Requesting Reference From Previous Employer Examples
Requesting a Reference for a Job in a Different Industry
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for [position] in [industry]. As you know, I worked for [company] for [duration] as a [position].
I would be grateful if you could provide a reference letter that speaks to my skills in [specific skills required for the position]. If you require any additional information from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Requesting a Generic Reference Letter
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a reference letter from you as I pursue new job opportunities. As you know, I worked for [company] for [duration] as a [position].
I would be grateful if you could provide a general reference letter that speaks to my skills and work ethic. If you require any additional information from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Requesting a Reference Letter for a Promotion
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for a promotion within [company]. As you know, I have worked for [company] for [duration] as a [position].
I would be grateful if you could provide a reference letter that speaks to my accomplishments and dedication to the company. If you require any additional information from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Requesting a Reference Letter After a Layoff
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a reference letter from you as I search for new job opportunities. As you know, I worked for [company] for [duration] as a [position] before being laid off due to [reason for layoff].
I would be grateful if you could provide a reference letter that speaks to my skills and contributions to the company during my time there. If you require any additional information from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Requesting a Reference Letter for a Volunteer Position
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for a volunteer position with [organization]. As you know, I worked for [company] for [duration] as a [position], during which time I volunteered with [organization] in my free time.
I would be grateful if you could provide a reference letter that speaks to my skills and commitment to [organization]. If you require any additional information from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Requesting a Reference Letter for Graduate School
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for graduate school. As you know, I worked for [company] for [duration] as a [position].
I would be grateful if you could provide a reference letter that speaks to my academic abilities and work ethic. If you require any additional information from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Requesting a Reference Letter for a Scholarship
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for a scholarship. As you know, I worked for [company] for [duration] as a [position].
I would be grateful if you could provide a reference letter that speaks to my academic abilities and dedication to my studies. If you require any additional information from me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my request for a reference letter?
When requesting a reference letter, make sure to include all the relevant information that your previous employer may need in order to write an effective letter. This includes your job title, the dates of your employment, and a brief description of your duties and responsibilities. It’s also a good idea to offer to provide additional information if needed.
How long should a reference letter be?
A reference letter should typically be no longer than one page. It’s important to keep the letter concise and to the point, while still providing all the necessary information about your skills and experience.
Can I ask my previous employer to write a reference letter if I was fired?
You can still ask your previous employer to write a reference letter for you, even if you were fired. However, it’s important to be honest about the circumstances of your departure, and to emphasize any positive aspects of your work experience.
Do I need to provide a copy of my resume to my previous employer when requesting a reference letter?
While it’s not strictly necessary to provide a copy of your resume, it can be helpful for your previous employer to have all the relevant information in one place. This can help them write a more effective reference letter.
How many reference letters should I provide when applying for a job?
Typically, it’s a good idea to provide at least two or three reference letters when applying for a job. Make sure to choose references who can speak to your skills and experience in a relevant way.
How long should I wait before following up on my request for a reference letter?
It’s generally a good idea to wait at least a week before following up on your request for a reference letter. If you still haven’t heard back after a week, you can send a polite follow-up email to check in on the status of your request.
Conclusion
A reference letter from a previous employer can be an important part of your job application. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can increase your chances of receiving a strong and effective reference letter that highlights your skills and experience.