Write a Professional Reference Letter that Impresses the Employers

4 min read28,449 ViewsLast updated 19 Mar 2019

At some point in the career, almost everyone is asked to provide a reference. Being a professional, it is important for you to know how to write a reference letter. Reference letters serve to accredit a person's skills, knowledge and achievements. A reference letter is also known as a “recommendation letter” and should be written in a professional way that serves the business requirements.

Introduction

Your recommendation letter should mention how you know the person you are referring. This segment should include the full name of the person and their position within the company. Also, mention the position for which you are referring the candidate.

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Context

In this section, write briefly about the current job profile of the candidate and suggest how it is relevant to the position you are referring him/her for. Provide concrete examples that accredit your praises for the candidate. Highlight the positive qualities of the candidate. Talk about their professional attitude and achievements so far. Try to include keywords from the job description to make your letter more impactful.

Use Business Language & Format

When sending a reference e-mail, use a business letter format. Mention your complete name, position in the company, contact information, the date, and your referral’s contact information. If you do not know whom to address the reference e-mail or letter, mention - “To Whom it May Concern”.

Signature

Close your letter with a formal closing and your signature.

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Sample of an Employment Reference Letter

To Whom It May Concern:

I would like to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the position of [position name] with our organization. He/She is a professional acquaintance from my last organization [Last company name], where he/she held the position of [Position Name]. [Candidate’s Name] has done an excellent job working as a [Position Name] and has been an asset to the organization. During his/her tenure with the organization, [Candidate’s Name] was responsible for [Duties and responsibilities brief].

He/She has excellent written and verbal communication skills, can work independently, is extremely organized, and ensures successful accomplishment of the jobs offered. [Candidate’s Name] is an excellent team player and shares a good rapport with his/her colleagues and seniors.

He/She would add value to any company, and I recommend him/her for the abovementioned position. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Yours truly,

[Your Name]

[Position]

Some tips to write a reference letter

- The candidate should be someone you know reasonably well

- Be assured of the job duties of the candidate and its relevance to the open position

- Provide an honest and positive reference

- Do not mention any weaknesses the candidate has

- Avoid mentioning the personal information not relevant to the application. For e.g. the candidate’s race, political stance, religion, nationality or marital status

- Do not write in an informal manner using jokes, slang and casual language

- Avoid making grammatical mistakes

- Follow the submission guidelines, send your letter on time

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