A reference letter is a document that provides information about a person’s character, skills, abilities, and achievements. It is usually written by someone who knows the person well and can provide a positive recommendation. In this article, we will discuss the tips for writing a reference letter in English, provide seven examples, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter in English
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to:
1. Be Specific
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant Name] for [Purpose of Letter]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number of Years] and can confidently say that [he/she] is a [Positive Trait 1], [Positive Trait 2], and [Positive Trait 3] individual.
[Applicant Name] has [Brief Description of Accomplishments]. [He/She] has also demonstrated [Specific Skill/Ability] while working on [Project/Task]. I am certain that [he/she] will [Future Prediction] and excel in [Field/Industry].
It was a pleasure working with [Applicant Name], and I highly recommend [him/her] for [Purpose of Letter].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Highlight Relevant Qualities
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Position/Program]. I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [Number of Years] at [Company/Institution].
[Applicant Name] has [Brief Description of Accomplishments]. [He/She] is a [Positive Trait 1], [Positive Trait 2], and [Positive Trait 3] individual. [He/She] has demonstrated excellent [Skill/Ability] while working on [Project/Task].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] has the skills and qualifications to excel in the [Position/Program]. [He/She] is a [Positive Trait 4] person who is [Positive Trait 5] and [Positive Trait 6]. [He/She] would be a valuable asset to your team/program.
Thank you for considering [Applicant Name] for the [Position/Program].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Be Honest
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Position/Program]. I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [Number of Years] at [Company/Institution].
[Applicant Name] has [Brief Description of Accomplishments]. While [he/she] may not have [Specific Skill/Ability], [he/she] has demonstrated [Positive Trait 1], [Positive Trait 2], and [Positive Trait 3] qualities.
I believe that [Applicant Name] is a hard-working and dedicated individual who is always willing to learn and improve. [He/She] would be an asset to your team/program and would bring a positive attitude and excellent work ethic to the position.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Include Relevant Details
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Position/Program]. I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [Number of Years] at [Company/Institution].
[Applicant Name] has [Brief Description of Accomplishments]. [He/She] is a [Positive Trait 1] individual who has demonstrated excellent [Skill/Ability] while working on [Project/Task].
I would also like to mention that [Applicant Name] is a [Positive Trait 2] and [Positive Trait 3] person who is [Positive Trait 4]. [He/She] is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that [Task/Project] is completed to the best of [his/her] ability.
Thank you for considering [Applicant Name] for the [Position/Program]. [He/She] would be an excellent addition to your team/program.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
5. Focus on Achievements
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Purpose of Letter]. I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [Number of Years] at [Company/Institution].
[Applicant Name] has [Brief Description of Accomplishments]. [He/She] has demonstrated excellent [Skill/Ability] while working on [Project/Task]. [His/Her] contributions to [Task/Project] were invaluable and have resulted in [Achievement].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Trait 1] and [Positive Trait 2] individual who is [Positive Trait 3]. [He/She] would be an asset to your team/program and would excel in [Field/Industry].
Thank you for considering [Applicant Name] for the [Purpose of Letter].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
6. Emphasize Skills and Abilities
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Purpose of Letter]. I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [Number of Years] at [Company/Institution].
[Applicant Name] has [Brief Description of Accomplishments]. [He/She] has demonstrated excellent [Skill/Ability] while working on [Project/Task]. [His/Her] ability to [Specific Skill/Ability] sets [him/her] apart from others in [Field/Industry].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Trait 1] and [Positive Trait 2] individual who is [Positive Trait 3]. [He/She] would be an asset to your team/program and would excel in [Field/Industry].
Thank you for considering [Applicant Name] for the [Purpose of Letter].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
7. Provide Contact Information
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Purpose of Letter]. I have known [him/her] for [Number of Years] and can confidently say that [he/she] is a [Positive Trait 1], [Positive Trait 2], and [Positive Trait 3] individual.
[Applicant Name] has [Brief Description of Accomplishments]. [He/She] has also demonstrated [Specific Skill/Ability] while working on [Project/Task]. I am certain that [he/she] will [Future Prediction] and excel in [Field/Industry].
If you require further information about [Applicant Name], please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reference letter?
A reference letter is a document that provides information about a person’s character, skills, abilities, and achievements. It is usually written by someone who knows the person well and can provide a positive recommendation.
Who can write a reference letter?
A reference letter can be written by anyone who knows the person well and can provide a positive recommendation. This can be a former employer, coworker, teacher, mentor, or friend.
What should be included in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include specific details about the person’s character, skills, abilities, and achievements. It should also provide examples of how the person has demonstrated these qualities in the past.
How long should a reference letter be?
A reference letter should be one to two pages long. It should provide enough detail to support the person’s application but should be concise and to the point.
Can I edit a reference letter to suit my needs?
Yes, you can edit a reference letter to suit your needs. The examples provided in this article can be used as a starting point and can be edited to include specific details about the person you are recommending.
Should I send the reference letter directly to the recipient or give it to the person I am recommending?
It depends on the instructions provided by the recipient. Some may ask that the reference letter be sent directly to them, while others may ask that the person being recommended provide them with the letter. It’s always best to follow the instructions provided.
What should I do if I am asked to write a negative reference letter?
If you are asked to write a negative reference letter, it’s best to decline the request. Providing a negative recommendation can harm the person’s chances of getting the job or program they are applying for and can damage your professional reputation.
Conclusion
A reference letter in English can be an important tool for job applications, academic programs, and other opportunities. By following these tips and examples, you can write a strong and effective reference letter that highlights the person’s strengths and qualifications. Remember to be honest, specific, and concise, and provide examples to support your recommendation.