If you’ve ever been asked to provide a reference letter for an employee, you know that it can be a challenge to write something that accurately reflects their skills and experience. One of the most important aspects of a reference letter is explaining why the employee left their previous job. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to address this issue and provide some examples that you can edit as needed.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter Reason For Leaving
When you’re writing a reference letter, it’s important to be honest and straightforward. Here are some tips to help you navigate this potentially tricky issue:
1. Explain the reason clearly
Start by clearly explaining the reason why the employee left their previous job. Don’t sugarcoat the situation or make excuses. Be honest, but also be tactful and professional.
2. Be positive
Even if the reason for leaving wasn’t ideal, try to find something positive to say about the employee’s time at the company. Highlight their achievements and contributions, and emphasize their strengths and skills.
3. Keep it brief
You don’t need to go into great detail about the reason for leaving. Keep your explanation concise and to the point. Focus on the employee’s qualifications and suitability for the job they’re applying for.
4. Edit as needed
Remember that each reference letter should be tailored to the specific job and employer that the employee is applying to. You can use the examples provided below as a starting point, but be sure to customize them as needed.
Examples of Reference Letter Reason For Leaving
Relocation
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for the position of [Job Title]. During [Employee Name]’s time at [Company Name], they were an invaluable member of our team. Unfortunately, [Employee Name] had to leave the company due to a relocation to another state. Despite this, I believe that [Employee Name] would be an excellent fit for your organization. [Employee Name] is a skilled [Job Skill] with [Number] years of experience in the field. They are a fast learner and a hard worker, and I’m confident that they would be an asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Personal Reasons
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for the position of [Job Title]. During [Employee Name]’s time at [Company Name], they were a dedicated and hardworking member of the team. Unfortunately, [Employee Name] had to leave the company due to personal reasons. Despite this, I believe that [Employee Name] would be an excellent fit for your organization. [Employee Name] is a skilled [Job Skill] with [Number] years of experience in the field. They are a quick learner and have a great attitude, and I’m confident that they would be an asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Better Opportunity
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for the position of [Job Title]. During [Employee Name]’s time at [Company Name], they were an exceptional employee who consistently exceeded expectations. Although I was disappointed to see them leave, I understand that they had an opportunity to pursue a more senior role with another company. Despite their departure, I have no doubt that [Employee Name] would be a valuable addition to your organization. [Employee Name] is a highly skilled [Job Skill] with [Number] years of experience in the field. They are a strong communicator and problem-solver, and I’m confident that they would excel in any position they pursue.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
End of Contract
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for the position of [Job Title]. During [Employee Name]’s time at [Company Name], they were a valuable member of our team, consistently delivering high-quality work and demonstrating a strong work ethic. Their contract with our company ended, which is why they are currently seeking new opportunities. Despite this, I have no doubt that [Employee Name] would be an excellent fit for your organization. [Employee Name] is a skilled [Job Skill] with [Number] years of experience in the field. They are proactive and detail-oriented, and I’m confident that they would make a positive contribution to your team.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Termination
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Although [Employee Name]’s time at [Company Name] was brief, they made a strong impression during their tenure. Unfortunately, the decision was made to terminate [Employee Name]’s employment due to [Reason for Termination]. Despite this, I believe that [Employee Name] would be an asset to your organization. [Employee Name] is a skilled [Job Skill] with [Number] years of experience in the field. They are a hard worker and a quick learner, and I’m confident that they would excel in any role they take on.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Resignation
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for the position of [Job Title]. During [Employee Name]’s time at [Company Name], they were a valuable member of our team, consistently delivering high-quality work and demonstrating a strong work ethic. [Employee Name] resigned from their position to pursue other opportunities, but I have no doubt that they would be an excellent fit for your organization. [Employee Name] is a skilled [Job Skill] with [Number] years of experience in the field. They are detail-oriented and have excellent communication skills, and I’m confident that they would make a positive contribution to your team.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Medical Reasons
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for the position of [Job Title]. During [Employee Name]’s time at [Company Name], they were an invaluable member of our team. Unfortunately, [Employee Name] had to leave the company due to medical reasons. Despite this, I believe that [Employee Name] would be an excellent fit for your organization. [Employee Name] is a skilled [Job Skill] with [Number] years of experience in the field. They are a fast learner and a hard worker, and I’m confident that they would be an asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I explain why an employee left?
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to be honest and clear about the reason why the employee left their previous job. Keep your explanation concise and to the point, but also be positive and highlight the employee’s strengths and skills.
What do I do if the reason for leaving was negative?
If the reason for leaving was negative, be honest but tactful in your explanation. Focus on the employee’s positive attributes and contribution to the company, and avoid dwelling on the negative aspects of their departure.
Should I mention if the employee was terminated?
If the employee was terminated, it’s important to be honest about the reason for their departure. However, be careful not to say anything that could be interpreted as defamatory or damaging to the employee’s reputation.
What if I don’t know why the employee left?
If you’re not sure why the employee left their previous job, it’s okay to say that in your reference letter. Focus instead on the employee’s qualifications and suitability for the job they’re applying for.
Can I mention salary in a reference letter?
No, it’s not appropriate to mention salary in a reference letter. Stick to discussing the employee’s skills, experience, and contributions to the company.
Should I include my contact information in the reference letter?
Yes, be sure to include your contact information in the reference letter so that the employer can reach out to you if they have any questions or would like to learn more about the employee’s qualifications.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter can be challenging, especially when it comes to explaining why the employee left their previous job. However, by following these tips and using the examples provided, you can create a document that accurately reflects the employee’s skills and experience while also addressing any potential concerns a prospective employer may have.