A reference letter can make or break a candidate’s chances of getting hired or admitted to their desired program. As such, it is important to carefully consider every aspect of the letter, including the final sentence. This article will provide tips and examples of effective reference letter final sentences to help guide you in your writing.
Tips for Writing an Effective Reference Letter Final Sentence
When writing a reference letter, the final sentence should leave a positive lasting impression on the reader. Here are some tips to help you craft an effective final sentence:
1. Express Confidence
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am proud to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for [Purpose of the Letter]. With their [Key Skills/Qualities], [Candidate’s Name] will be an asset to any organization or program. I am confident that they will exceed your expectations.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
2. Highlight the Candidate’s Achievements
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I had the pleasure of working with [Candidate’s Name] for [Duration of Time]. During this time, I was impressed by their [Key Achievements]. [Candidate’s Name] has proven themselves to be a dedicated and hardworking individual, and I am confident that they will continue to excel in [Purpose of the Letter].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
3. Emphasize the Candidate’s Strengths
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I strongly recommend [Candidate’s Name] for [Purpose of the Letter]. Their [Key Strengths] make them an ideal candidate for [Position/Program]. [Candidate’s Name] has consistently demonstrated their [Positive Qualities] during their time with [Organization/Institution], and I am confident that they will continue to do so in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Provide Contact Information
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am honored to provide this reference for [Candidate’s Name]. If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Contact Information].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
5. Use a Strong Closing Statement
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I wholeheartedly endorse [Candidate’s Name] for [Purpose of the Letter]. [Candidate’s Name] possesses the unique combination of [Key Qualities/Skills], which will undoubtedly make them a valuable addition to any [Industry/Program]. Thank you for considering [Candidate’s Name] for this opportunity.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
6. Express Gratitude
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
It is my pleasure to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for [Purpose of the Letter]. I am thankful for the opportunity to have worked with such an exceptional [Employee/Student], and I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] will continue to exceed expectations in [Industry/Program].
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I include in the final sentence of a reference letter?
The final sentence of a reference letter should leave a positive lasting impression on the reader. It should express confidence in the candidate, highlight their achievements or strengths, or provide contact information. Additionally, it could use a strong closing statement or express gratitude for the opportunity to recommend the candidate.
Q: How long should the final sentence be in a reference letter?
The length of the final sentence in a reference letter can vary, but it should be concise and to the point. Ideally, it should be no longer than one or two sentences and should provide a clear and positive message about the candidate.
Q: Can I use the same final sentence for every reference letter?
While it may be tempting to reuse the same final sentence for every reference letter, it is important to tailor the letter to the specific candidate and purpose. This includes crafting a unique final sentence that highlights the candidate’s strengths and accomplishments in relation to the position or program.
Q: Should I include my contact information in the final sentence?
Providing your contact information in the final sentence of a reference letter can be helpful for the recipient if they have any further questions or require additional information. However, it is not necessary to include this information if you have already included it elsewhere in the letter.
Q: Can I ask the candidate for input on the final sentence of the reference letter?
While it is not necessary to ask the candidate for input on the final sentence of the reference letter, you can certainly seek their feedback on the overall letter. This can help ensure that you have included all relevant information and that the letter accurately reflects the candidate’s qualifications and accomplishments.
Q: Should I sign the reference letter?
Yes, it is important to sign the reference letter to provide authenticity and credibility. You should also include your printed name, title, and contact information to make it easier for the recipient to follow up if needed.
Conclusion
The final sentence of a reference letter can have a significant impact on the reader’s impression of the candidate. By following these tips and utilizing the provided examples, you can craft an effective reference letter that highlights the candidate’s strengths and accomplishments and leaves a positive lasting impression on the reader.