When applying for a job, having a reference person can make a huge difference in the hiring process. A reference person can vouch for your skills, experience, and character, and give you an edge over other applicants. In this article, we will discuss how to write a job application letter with a reference person, provide tips for creating an effective letter, and offer examples for you to edit and personalize as needed.
Tips for Writing a Job Application Letter With Reference Person
Here are some tips to help you create a compelling job application letter with a reference person:
1. Start with a Strong Introduction
Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and clearly state the purpose of your letter. In this case, you want to highlight the fact that you have a strong reference person who can speak to your qualifications for the job.
2. Explain Your Relationship With the Reference Person
In the body of your letter, briefly explain how you know your reference person and why you’ve chosen them to vouch for you. This can help the employer understand why your reference person is reliable.
3. Show How Your Skills Align With the Job Description
Use specific examples from your work history to show how your skills and experience match the requirements of the job. This can help the employer see how you would be a good fit for the position.
4. Customize Your Letter for Each Job Application
A generic letter won’t cut it when it comes to job applications. Take the time to research the company and tailor your letter to the specific job you’re applying for.
5. Thank Your Reader for Their Time
Wrap up your letter by thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to speak with them further. This shows that you’re grateful for the chance to apply and serious about the job.
Examples of Job Application Letters With Reference Person
Example 1: Applying for a Sales Position
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am thrilled to apply for the sales position at XYZ Company, and I believe my experience working in a similar role at ABC Inc. would make me an excellent fit for the job. I am also fortunate enough to have a strong reference person in the industry, John Smith, who can attest to my sales skills and work ethic.
John and I worked together for three years at DEF Corporation, where I consistently exceeded my sales quotas and earned several commendations for my customer service skills. I’m confident that with John’s endorsement and my ability to build relationships with clients, I could help XYZ Company increase revenues and grow their customer base.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Example 2: Applying for a Marketing Position
Dear Marketing Manager,
I am excited to apply for the marketing position at LMN Corporation, and I believe my skills in social media marketing and copywriting would make me a great asset to your team. I also have a strong reference person, my former supervisor at XYZ Agency, who can attest to my creativity and attention to detail.
During my time at XYZ Agency, I worked on several successful marketing campaigns that generated increased brand recognition and sales for our clients. My supervisor, Sarah Johnson, can speak to my ability to collaborate with colleagues and clients to produce high-quality work under tight deadlines. I’m confident that with Sarah’s endorsement and my passion for marketing, I could help LMN Corporation exceed its marketing goals and objectives.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
John Smith
Example 3: Applying for a Software Development Position
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am submitting my application for the software development position at PQR Corporation. As a seasoned developer with over five years of experience in the field, I believe I would excel in this role. I also have a reference person, my former colleague at ABC Inc., who can speak to my technical skills and ability to deliver high-quality code.
At ABC Inc., I worked on several complex software projects and led a team of developers to meet tight deadlines and deliver products on time and within budget. My colleague, David Brown, can attest to my experience working with a variety of programming languages and platforms. I’m confident that with David’s endorsement and my ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders, I could help PQR Corporation achieve its software development goals.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about my qualifications in more detail.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Example 4: Applying for an Administrative Assistant Position
Dear Office Manager,
I am excited to apply for the administrative assistant position at RST Corporation. My experience working in a fast-paced office environment and my strong organizational skills would make me an asset to your team. I also have a reference person, my former supervisor at DEF Inc., who can attest to my ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
At DEF Inc., I was responsible for coordinating schedules, managing files, and providing administrative support to senior executives. My supervisor, Julie Lee, can speak to my attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. I’m confident that with Julie’s endorsement and my excellent communication skills, I could help RST Corporation operate more efficiently and effectively.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
John Doe
Example 5: Applying for a Customer Service Representative Position
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the customer service representative position at UVW Corporation, and I believe my experience working in a similar role at GHI Inc. would make me an excellent fit for the job. I also have a reference person, my former manager at JKL Corporation, who can attest to my customer service skills and ability to handle difficult situations.
At GHI Inc., I was responsible for managing a high volume of customer inquiries and complaints, and I consistently received positive feedback from clients for my responsiveness and professionalism. My manager, Michael Lee, can speak to my ability to work under pressure and provide exceptional customer service. I’m confident that with Michael’s endorsement and my strong communication skills, I could help UVW Corporation build lasting relationships with its customers.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Example 6: Applying for an IT Project Manager Position
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am submitting my application for the IT project manager position at MNO Corporation. As an experienced project manager with a proven track record of successful project delivery, I believe I would be a strong candidate for this role. I also have a reference person, my former supervisor at PQR Inc., who can speak to my leadership skills and strategic thinking.
At PQR Inc., I was responsible for managing a team of developers and delivering complex software projects on time and within budget. My supervisor, John Kim, can attest to my ability to manage project scope, schedule, and resources effectively. I’m confident that with John’s endorsement and my ability to align project goals with business objectives, I could help MNO Corporation achieve its IT project management goals.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
John Smith
Frequently Asked Questions
How Should I Choose a Reference Person?
Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your qualifications for the job you’re applying for. Ideally, your reference person should be someone you’ve worked with closely in a professional context, such as a former supervisor, colleague, or client.
Should I Ask My Reference Person Before Listing Them in My Application?
Yes, it’s always a good idea to ask for someone’s permission before listing them as a reference. This gives them the opportunity to decline if they don’t feel comfortable or if they don’t have the time to speak to a potential employer.
How Many Reference Persons Should I Include in My Application?
Typically, it’s best to include 2-3 reference persons in your application. Make sure you choose people who can speak to different aspects of your work experience and skills.
Can I Use the Same Reference Person for Multiple Job Applications?
Yes, you can use the same reference person for multiple job applications. However, it’s always a good idea to let them know each time you list them as a reference and provide them with information about the job you’re applying for.
Should I Include My Reference Person’s Contact Information in My Application?
Yes, make sure you include your reference person’s full name, job title, company, and contact information (phone number and email address) in your application. This makes it easier for the potential employer to contact them if they have any questions.
What Should I Do If My Reference Person Declines to Provide a Reference?
If your reference person declines to provide a reference, don’t worry. You can always find another qualified reference person who can speak to your skills and experience. It’s better to find someone who is enthusiastic about endorsing you than to ask someone who isn’t comfortable doing so.
Conclusion
A job application letter with a reference person can be a powerful tool in helping you stand out from other applicants. By following the tips and examples in this article, you can create a compelling letter that highlights your qualifications and shows why you’re the best candidate for the job. Remember to customize your letter for each job application, and always thank the potential employer for their time and consideration.