Reference letters are an essential part of any job application, but there are cases when the letter writer doesn’t put enough effort into it, resulting in a terrible reference letter. In this article, we’ll discuss what makes a reference letter the worst and provide examples that you can edit and improve as needed.
Why a Bad Reference Letter is Bad?
A bad reference letter can be worse than having no reference letter at all. A letter that’s hastily written, full of misspellings, or lacks specific details can give the hiring manager the impression that the writer doesn’t care about the applicant or didn’t take the time to write a thoughtful reference letter.
Additionally, a bad reference letter can hurt the applicant’s chances of getting the job they want, making it essential to avoid writing a bad reference letter.
Tips on Writing a Good Reference Letter
Writing a good reference letter requires effort and attention to detail. Here are a few tips to help you write a good reference letter:
- Be specific – provide specific examples of the applicant’s skills and accomplishments.
- Use professional language – avoid using casual language or phrases that could be misconstrued.
- Be honest – don’t exaggerate or make false claims about the applicant.
- Proofread – check for typos or grammatical errors before sending the letter.
- Focus on the positive – highlight the applicant’s strengths and positive attributes.
Examples of Worst Reference Letter Ever
Generic and Unspecific
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the job. [Applicant Name] is a good worker and has a good attitude. They will be an asset to your company. Please consider them for the job.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Negative Tone
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the job. While they are not the best worker, they are better than nothing. I hope you will consider them for the job.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Misspelled Words
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recomend [Applicant Name] for the job. They are a hard worker and would be a grate asset to your company. Please consider them for the job.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Casual Language
Hey there,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the job. They are a cool person and a good worker. Your company would be lucky to have them. Peace out.
Later,
[Your Name]
Too Short
To Whom It May Concern,
This is a reference letter for [Applicant Name]. They are a good worker. I recommend them for the job.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Not Related to Job
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the job. They are a great person and a good friend. We often hang out and have a good time.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Copy-Paste
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the job. They are an excellent and hardworking employee with top-notch skills in [insert unrelated field].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive a bad reference letter?
If you receive a bad reference letter, it’s best to address it head-on during the interview. Explain that the letter doesn’t reflect your skills and ask if you can provide additional references.
Can I edit a bad reference letter?
Yes, you can edit a bad reference letter. You can request the writer to make the necessary changes or prepare a new reference letter from a different person.
What are the signs of a bad reference letter?
The signs of a bad reference letter include generic language, misspelled words, negative tone, lack of specifics, and unrelated content.
Can a bad reference letter ruin my chances of getting a job?
Yes, a bad reference letter can ruin your chances of getting a job. It’s essential to ensure that your reference letters are well-written and reflect your skills and accomplishments.
What should I include in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include specific examples of the applicant’s skills and accomplishments, information about the relationship between the applicant and the writer, and the writer’s contact information.
Who can write a reference letter?
A reference letter can be written by a former boss, coworker, or supervisor. It’s essential to choose someone who can speak to your skills and experience in a professional setting.
Conclusion
Writing a good reference letter is an essential part of supporting a job applicant’s chances of getting hired. By avoiding the common mistakes found in the worst reference letter examples and following the tips provided in this article, you can ensure that your reference letter stands out and reflects positively on the applicant.