If you have been asked to write a professional reference letter for someone who is applying for a board position, it is important that you take the time to craft a well-written and thoughtful letter that will help the candidate stand out from the competition. In this article, we will provide you with some tips and examples that will help you write a great reference letter for a board position.
Tips for Writing a Great Reference Letter for a Board Position
If you are asked to write a reference letter for someone who is applying for a board position, here are some tips that will help you write a great letter:
Start with a Title
Begin your letter with a clear and concise title that indicates the purpose of your letter. For example, “Professional Reference Letter for John Doe’s Board Application.”
Provide a Detailed Explanation
Explain how you know the candidate and why you are recommending them for the board position. Be specific about their skills, experience, and qualifications. You may also want to mention any specific achievements or accomplishments that make them an ideal candidate for the position.
Include Examples
Readers may find it helpful if you include examples of the candidate’s work or specific projects they have completed that demonstrate their skills and abilities. You can also include specific details about their contributions to a particular project or initiative.
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board Examples
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board: Marketing Manager
Greeting: Dear [Board Member]
Paragraph 1: I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Name] for the position of board member. As the marketing manager at [Company], [Name]’s extensive experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns has made a significant contribution to our company’s growth and success. Their exceptional communication and leadership skills have earned them the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
Paragraph 2: I am confident that [Name] would be an asset to your board. Their strategic vision and innovative ideas have consistently driven results, and their passion for excellence is contagious. I wholeheartedly endorse [Name] for the position of board member.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board: Nonprofit Executive Director
Greeting: To Whom It May Concern,
Paragraph 1: I am writing this letter of recommendation for [Name] as they apply for the board member position. [Name] is currently the executive director of a nonprofit organization that serves [specific cause]. Their passion for this cause is evident in the tireless work they do to further the organization’s mission, and their leadership has had a profound impact on the success of the organization.
Paragraph 2: I have no doubt that [Name] would bring the same level of dedication, intelligence, and strategic thinking to your board. Their experience in managing a nonprofit organization, coupled with their strong communication and interpersonal skills, would make them an excellent addition to your team.
Complimentary Close: Best regards,
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board: Human Resources Manager
Greeting: Dear Board Members,
Paragraph 1: I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] for the board member position. As the human resources manager at [Company], I have had the opportunity to work closely with [Name] over the past few years. Their exceptional leadership skills, strong work ethic, and ability to build relationships across diverse groups has been impressive.
Paragraph 2: I am confident that [Name] would bring the same level of dedication and passion to your board. Their experience in managing people, coupled with their strategic thinking and business acumen, would make them an excellent addition to your team.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board: Finance Director
Greeting: Dear Members of the Board,
Paragraph 1: I am delighted to write this letter on behalf of [Name] who has applied for a board member position. [Name] has been a finance director at [Company] for [number of years] years and has demonstrated exceptional leadership and financial acumen.
Paragraph 2: [Name]’s ability to provide strategic financial analysis and insights has been invaluable to our company’s growth and success. They have consistently demonstrated an ability to drive results and provide direction in a rapidly evolving business environment. I am confident that [Name] would make a significant contribution to your board and I wholeheartedly recommend them for the position.
Complimentary Close: Best regards,
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board: Legal Counsel
Greeting: To Whom It May Concern,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to recommend [Name] for the board member position. I have had the pleasure of working with [Name] for the past [number of years] years as their legal counsel at [Company]. Their exceptional legal skills and ability to navigate complex legal issues has been invaluable to our company’s success.
Paragraph 2: In addition to their legal skills, [Name] has also demonstrated exceptional leadership and communication skills. They have a deep understanding of business strategy and always approach challenges with a creative and innovative mindset. I am confident that [Name] would make an excellent addition to your board.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board: Operations Manager
Greeting: Dear Board Members,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to recommend [Name] for the board member position. As the operations manager at [Company], I have had the opportunity to work closely with [Name] over the past [number of years] years. Their exceptional leadership skills, strong work ethic, and ability to build relationships across diverse groups has been impressive.
Paragraph 2: I am confident that [Name] would bring the same level of dedication and passion to your board. Their experience in managing operations, coupled with their strategic thinking and business acumen, would make them an excellent addition to your team.
Complimentary Close: Best regards,
Sample Professional Reference Letter For Board: IT Director
Greeting: To Whom It May Concern,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to recommend [Name] for the board member position. [Name] has been the IT director at [Company] for [number of years] years and has demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise.
Paragraph 2: [Name]’s ability to provide strategic technical direction and manage complex projects has been invaluable to our company’s growth and success. They have consistently demonstrated an ability to drive results and provide direction in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. I am confident that [Name] would make a significant contribution to your board.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a professional reference letter for a board position?
Your reference letter should include a clear and concise title, an explanation of how you know the candidate and why you are recommending them, and examples of their work or specific projects they have completed that demonstrate their skills and abilities.
How many references should I include in a professional reference letter for a board position?
You should aim to include at least two references in your letter.
What is the ideal length for a professional reference letter for a board position?
Your reference letter should be no longer than one page.
How should I format my professional reference letter for a board position?
Your letter should be well-organized and easy to read, with clear headings and paragraphs. Use a professional font and format, such as Times New Roman or Arial.
What should I avoid when writing a professional reference letter for a board position?
Avoid using generic language or vague statements. Be specific and use concrete examples to demonstrate the candidate’s skills and qualifications.
Should I include my contact information in a professional reference letter for a board position?
Yes, it is a good idea to include your contact information in case the board has any questions or needs more information.
Conclusion
Writing a professional reference letter for a board position can be a great way to help someone you know and respect advance their career. By following the tips and examples in this article, you can create a well-written and effective letter that will help your candidate stand out from the competition and succeed in their application.