If you’re an employer or manager, at some point, you may be asked to provide a reference for an employee. Writing a reference can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to start. In this article, we’ll provide you with reference examples for employees and tips on how to create a great reference that highlights the employee’s strengths and qualifications.
Tips for Creating a Great Employee Reference
When creating an employee reference, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure it accurately reflects the employee’s qualifications and strengths:
- Be honest: Only provide information that you can attest to and that you believe is true.
- Be specific: Use examples to illustrate the employee’s skills and accomplishments.
- Be positive: Highlight the employee’s strengths and qualifications in a positive manner.
- Be concise: Keep the reference short and to the point.
- Be professional: Use professional language and avoid slang or overly casual language.
Reference Examples for Employees
Job Application Reference
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee’s Name] for the [Job Title] position at your company. As [Employee’s Position] at [Company Name], [Employee’s Name] consistently demonstrated outstanding skills in [Skill or Responsibility].
For example, [Provide specific example of achievement or accomplishment]. [Employee’s Name] has also shown excellent [Skill or Characteristic], which would make him/her a great asset to your team.
Overall, I highly recommend [Employee’s Name] for the [Job Title] position at your company. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Academic Reference
Dear [Admissions Committee or Professor’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] for [Program or Position]. As [Student’s Position or Role] at [School Name], [Student’s Name] has demonstrated exceptional [Skill or Characteristic].
For example, [Provide specific example of achievement or accomplishment]. [Student’s Name] is an excellent [Skill or Characteristic], which would make him/her a valuable addition to your program.
Overall, I highly recommend [Student’s Name] for [Program or Position]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Character Reference
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee’s Name] for any opportunity that arises. [Employee’s Name] is one of the most reliable, responsible, and hardworking individuals I have ever had the pleasure of working with.
[Employee’s Name] consistently demonstrates [Skill or Characteristic], going above and beyond in his/her work. For example, [Provide specific example of achievement or accomplishment]. [Employee’s Name] is also a great team player, always willing to help his/her colleagues and contribute to the success of the team.
Overall, I am confident that [Employee’s Name] would excel in any role and would be an asset to any team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Internal Promotion Reference
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee’s Name] for the [Job Title] position. As [Employee’s Position] at [Company Name], [Employee’s Name] has consistently demonstrated outstanding skills in [Skill or Responsibility].
For example, [Provide specific example of achievement or accomplishment]. [Employee’s Name] has also shown excellent [Skill or Characteristic], which would make him/her a great fit for the [Job Title] position.
Overall, I highly recommend [Employee’s Name] for the [Job Title] position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Job Performance Reference
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee’s Name] for any opportunity that arises. [Employee’s Name] has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance in his/her role as [Employee’s Position] at [Company Name].
[Employee’s Name] has shown excellent [Skill or Characteristic], which has contributed to his/her success on the job. For example, [Provide specific example of achievement or accomplishment]. [Employee’s Name] is a dedicated and hardworking individual who takes pride in his/her work.
Overall, I am confident that [Employee’s Name] would excel in any role and would be an asset to any team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Internship Reference
Dear [Internship Supervisor or Admissions Committee’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] for the [Internship Name] program. As [Student’s Position or Role] at [School Name], [Student’s Name] has demonstrated outstanding [Skill or Characteristic].
For example, [Provide specific example of achievement or accomplishment]. [Student’s Name] is an excellent [Skill or Characteristic], which would make him/her a valuable addition to your team.
Overall, I highly recommend [Student’s Name] for the [Internship Name] program. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be included in an employee reference?
An employee reference should include the employee’s name, position, and a brief overview of their responsibilities. It should also highlight the employee’s strengths and qualifications, using specific examples to illustrate these traits. It should end with a positive recommendation for the employee.
What should be avoided when writing an employee reference?
When writing an employee reference, it is important to avoid providing false information, exaggerating the employee’s qualifications, or including personal opinions that are not relevant to the employee’s job performance. You should also avoid including any sensitive or confidential information that the employee may not want to be shared.
How should an employee reference be formatted?
An employee reference should be written in a professional tone and formatted as a formal business letter. It should include a greeting, introduction, body, and complimentary close. It should also be no longer than one page in length.
Who should write an employee reference?
An employee reference should be written by someone who has worked closely with the employee and can speak to their skills and qualifications. This may include a supervisor, manager, colleague, or professor.
How can I edit an employee reference to fit the job I am applying for?
You can edit an employee reference by highlighting the skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the job you are applying for. You can also add any additional information or achievements that you think would make you a strong candidate for the position.
What should I do if I am asked to provide a reference for an employee I cannot recommend?
If you are asked to provide a reference for an employee you cannot recommend, it is important to be honest and tactful. You can decline to provide a reference or explain your reasons for not being able to recommend the employee. You should also avoid providing any false or misleading information.
Conclusion
Providing a reference for an employee can be an important part of their career development. By following the tips and using the examples provided in this article, you can create a great reference that accurately reflects the employee’s skills and qualifications. Remember to keep it honest, specific, positive, and professional, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a reference that will help your employee succeed in their career.