When applying for a job, it is common to be asked to provide professional references. These references serve as a way for potential employers to learn more about your work experience, skills, and character from individuals who have worked with you in the past.
In this article, we will provide tips on how to choose and ask for references, as well as seven examples of professional reference letters that you can edit and use as needed.
Tips for Professional References For Job Application
Here are some tips for choosing and asking for professional references:
1. Choose the Right References
When choosing references, it is important to select individuals who have worked with you in a professional capacity and can speak to your qualifications for the job you are applying for. This may include former supervisors, colleagues, or clients.
2. Ask for Permission
Always ask for permission before including someone as a reference on your job application. This will give your reference time to prepare and ensure that they are comfortable speaking on your behalf.
3. Provide Information
When asking someone to be a reference, provide them with information about the job you are applying for and the skills and experience that are required. This will enable them to tailor their reference to the position and highlight your relevant qualifications.
4. Follow Up
After you have submitted your job application, follow up with your references to let them know that they may be contacted. This will give them a heads up and allow them to be prepared to speak with potential employers.
5. Say Thank You
Always thank your references for their time and support. This will show your appreciation and may encourage them to continue to support you in the future.
6. Use Professional Language
When contacting your references, use professional language and be courteous and respectful. Remember that they are doing you a favor by agreeing to serve as a reference, so it is important to treat them with the respect they deserve.
7. Keep Your References Updated
If you change jobs or move to a new location, be sure to keep your references updated. This will ensure that they are able to provide accurate and up-to-date information about you if contacted by potential employers.
Professional Reference Letter Examples
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to recommend [Full Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She] worked for me at [Previous Company] as a [Job Title] and was always an extremely dedicated and hardworking employee. [He/She] consistently met or exceeded expectations and showed great attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
As [his/her] supervisor, I observed [him/her] taking on additional responsibilities and working independently with minimal supervision. [His/Her] strong work ethic and positive attitude made [him/her] a valuable asset to our team.
I highly recommend [Full Name] for any position in [his/her] field. [He/She] is a highly skilled and motivated employee who would be an asset to any organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to recommend [Full Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She] worked for me at [Previous Company] as a [Job Title] and was always an extremely dedicated and hardworking employee. [He/She] consistently met or exceeded expectations and showed great attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
As [his/her] supervisor, I observed [him/her] taking on additional responsibilities and working independently with minimal supervision. [His/Her] strong work ethic and positive attitude made [him/her] a valuable asset to our team.
I highly recommend [Full Name] for any position in [his/her] field. [He/She] is a highly skilled and motivated employee who would be an asset to any organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to recommend [Full Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She] worked for me at [Previous Company] as a [Job Title] and was always an extremely dedicated and hardworking employee. [He/She] consistently met or exceeded expectations and showed great attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
As [his/her] supervisor, I observed [him/her] taking on additional responsibilities and working independently with minimal supervision. [His/Her] strong work ethic and positive attitude made [him/her] a valuable asset to our team.
I highly recommend [Full Name] for any position in [his/her] field. [He/She] is a highly skilled and motivated employee who would be an asset to any organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to recommend [Full Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She] worked for me at [Previous Company] as a [Job Title] and was always an extremely dedicated and hardworking employee. [He/She] consistently met or exceeded expectations and showed great attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
As [his/her] supervisor, I observed [him/her] taking on additional responsibilities and working independently with minimal supervision. [His/Her] strong work ethic and positive attitude made [him/her] a valuable asset to our team.
I highly recommend [Full Name] for any position in [his/her] field. [He/She] is a highly skilled and motivated employee who would be an asset to any organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to recommend [Full Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She] worked for me at [Previous Company] as a [Job Title] and was always an extremely dedicated and hardworking employee. [He/She] consistently met or exceeded expectations and showed great attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
As [his/her] supervisor, I observed [him/her] taking on additional responsibilities and working independently with minimal supervision. [His/Her] strong work ethic and positive attitude made [him/her] a valuable asset to our team.
I highly recommend [Full Name] for any position in [his/her] field. [He/She] is a highly skilled and motivated employee who would be an asset to any organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to recommend [Full Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She] worked for me at [Previous Company] as a [Job Title] and was always an extremely dedicated and hardworking employee. [He/She] consistently met or exceeded expectations and showed great attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
As [his/her] supervisor, I observed [him/her] taking on additional responsibilities and working independently with minimal supervision. [His/Her] strong work ethic and positive attitude made [him/her] a valuable asset to our team.
I highly recommend [Full Name] for any position in [his/her] field. [He/She] is a highly skilled and motivated employee who would be an asset to any organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Dear [Greeting],
I am writing to recommend [Full Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. [He/She] worked for me at [Previous Company] as a [Job Title] and was always an extremely dedicated and hardworking employee. [He/She] consistently met or exceeded expectations and showed great attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
As [his/her] supervisor, I observed [him/her] taking on additional responsibilities and working independently with minimal supervision. [His/Her] strong work ethic and positive attitude made [him/her] a valuable asset to our team.
I highly recommend [Full Name] for any position in [his/her] field. [He/She] is a highly skilled and motivated employee who would be an asset to any organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a professional reference?
A professional reference is someone who can speak to your work experience, skills, and character from a professional perspective. This may include former supervisors, colleagues, or clients.
How many references should I provide?
It is generally recommended to provide three to five references. This will give potential employers a well-rounded view of your qualifications and work experience.
What should I do if I don’t have professional references?
If you don’t have professional references, consider asking a teacher, coach, or volunteer supervisor who can speak to your character and work ethic.
Can I use a family member as a reference?
It is generally not recommended to use a family member as a reference, as they may be seen as biased. Instead, choose individuals who have worked with you in a professional capacity.
Do I need to include my references on my resume?
No, it is not necessary to include your references on your resume. Instead, provide them upon request from potential employers.
What should I do if my reference is not responding?
If your reference is not responding, try reaching out again or consider finding a new reference who can speak to your qualifications for the job you are applying for.
Conclusion
Professional references are an important part of the job application process. By choosing the right references and providing them with the information they need, you can increase your chances of landing the job you want. Use the tips and examples in this article to help you create effective and professional reference letters that will help you stand out from the competition.