If you have been asked to write a reference for someone, it can be a great honor. However, it can also be a daunting task. Writing a good reference can make all the difference in helping someone land their dream job or get into their preferred school. In this article, we will provide tips on how to write a good reference and include examples to help guide you along the way.
Tips for Writing A Good Reference
Before you start writing your reference, it is important to keep in mind that the purpose of the reference is to help the person you are writing for. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Tip #1: Be Honest
It is important to be honest in your reference. Your reference should accurately reflect the person you are writing for, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement. If you do not feel comfortable writing a reference, it is better to decline the request than to write a dishonest one.
Tip #2: Include Relevant Information
Include relevant information in your reference such as how you know the person, how long you have known them, and in what capacity. You should also include specific examples of their strengths and achievements that relate to the job or school they are applying for.
Tip #3: Use Positive Language
Use positive language when writing your reference. Choose words that highlight the person’s strengths and achievements. Avoid using negative language or highlighting flaws.
Tip #4: Edit and Proofread
After you have written your reference, take the time to edit and proofread. Check for grammar and spelling errors. Make sure the reference is clear and concise.
Tip #5: Include Contact Information
Include your contact information in the reference so that the person reading it can follow up with you if needed.
Tip #6: Offer to Help Further
If you feel comfortable, offer to help further. You can offer to answer any questions the person reading the reference may have or provide additional information.
Tip #7: Follow Any Guidelines Provided
If you have been provided with any guidelines for writing the reference, make sure to follow them. This may include specific questions to answer or a recommended format.
Examples of Writing A Good Reference
Example 1: Reference for a Job Applicant
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Jane Doe for the position of Marketing Coordinator. I had the pleasure of working with Jane for two years at XYZ Company as her direct manager.
Jane is a dedicated employee who always goes above and beyond to ensure the success of the team. She is a skilled marketer with a keen eye for detail. During her time at XYZ Company, she was responsible for launching several successful marketing campaigns that resulted in increased sales and brand awareness.
Overall, I highly recommend Jane for the position of Marketing Coordinator. She is an excellent candidate who would be an asset to any team.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Marketing Manager, XYZ Company
Example 2: Reference for a Student
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend Sarah Johnson for admission to your university’s engineering program. I had the pleasure of teaching Sarah in her senior year of high school, where she excelled in her engineering courses.
Sarah is an intelligent and hardworking student who always strives for excellence. She has a strong passion for engineering and has demonstrated this through her participation in robotics competitions and her engineering internship.
Overall, I highly recommend Sarah for admission to your university’s engineering program. She would be an excellent addition to your student body and I am confident she would excel in the program.
Sincerely,
Mary Williams
High School Engineering Teacher
Example 3: Reference for a Volunteer
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend Alex Rodriguez for any volunteer opportunities within your organization. I had the pleasure of working with Alex over the past year as a volunteer at our local animal shelter.
Alex is a compassionate and dedicated individual who truly cares about the well-being of animals. His enthusiasm for the cause is infectious and he always goes above and beyond to ensure the animals are well taken care of. He is also great at working with other volunteers and has a natural ability to lead and motivate the team.
Overall, I highly recommend Alex for any volunteer opportunities within your organization. He would be a great asset to your team and I am confident he would make a positive impact on the animals you serve.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Lee
Volunteer Supervisor, Local Animal Shelter
Example 4: Reference for a Freelancer
Dear Prospective Client,
I am writing to recommend Rachel Nguyen for any freelance writing or editing opportunities you may have available. I had the pleasure of working with Rachel on several projects over the past year and was consistently impressed with her work.
Rachel is a talented writer and editor who consistently produces high-quality work. She is a great communicator and always meets deadlines. She also has a keen eye for detail and is able to catch errors that others may miss.
Overall, I highly recommend Rachel for any freelance writing or editing opportunities. She would be an asset to your team and I am confident that she would exceed your expectations.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Lee
Senior Editor, Publishing Company
Example 5: Reference for a Teacher
Dear Principal,
I am writing to recommend Ms. Karen Lee for a teaching position at your school. I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Lee for two years at our previous school.
Ms. Lee is a knowledgeable and dedicated teacher who always puts her students first. She has a passion for teaching and is able to create a positive and engaging classroom environment. She is also great at working with parents and has excellent communication skills.
Overall, I highly recommend Ms. Karen Lee for a teaching position at your school. She would be an excellent addition to your staff and I am confident that her students would thrive under her guidance.
Sincerely,
John Kim
Co-Teacher, Previous School
Example 6: Reference for a Contractor
Dear Project Manager,
I am writing to recommend Steven Johnson for any contracting opportunities you may have available. I had the pleasure of working with Steven on several construction projects over the past year and was consistently impressed with his work.
Steven is a skilled contractor who consistently produces high-quality work. He is reliable and always meets deadlines. He also has excellent communication skills and is great at working with other contractors and suppliers.
Overall, I highly recommend Steven for any contracting opportunities. He would be an asset to your team and I am confident that he would exceed your expectations.
Sincerely,
David Kim
Construction Manager, Previous Project
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my reference?
Your reference should include relevant information about the person you are writing for, such as how you know them, how long you have known them, and in what capacity. You should also include specific examples of their strengths and achievements that relate to the job or school they are applying for.
How should I format my reference?
If you have been provided with any guidelines for writing the reference, make sure to follow them. Otherwise, a typical reference should be formatted like a business letter, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, the recipient’s contact information, a greeting, the body of the letter, and a complimentary close.
Should I be honest in my reference?
Yes, it is important to be honest in your reference. Your reference should accurately reflect the person you are writing for, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement. If you do not feel comfortable writing a reference, it is better to decline the request than to write a dishonest one.
How can I make my reference stand out?
You can make your reference stand out by including specific examples of the person’s strengths and achievements that relate to the job or school they are applying for. You can also use positive language and highlight the person’s unique qualities.
Can I offer to answer any questions the person reading the reference may have?
Yes, if you feel comfortable, you can offer to answer any questions the person reading the reference may have or provide additional information.
Should I edit and proofread my reference?
Yes, it is important to edit and proofread your reference. Check for grammar and spelling errors. Make sure the reference is clear and concise.
What if I don’t feel comfortable writing a reference?
If you don’t feel comfortable writing a reference, it is better to decline the request than to write a dishonest one. You can politely decline and explain your reasons for doing so.
Conclusion
Writing a good reference can help someone land their dream job or get into their preferred school. By following the tips provided in this article and using the examples as a guide, you can write a reference that accurately reflects the person you are writing for and highlights their unique qualities. Remember to be honest, include relevant information, and use positive language. Edit and proofread your reference, and offer to help further if you feel comfortable doing so.