If you’re looking for a way to support someone in their job search, you might consider writing a reference support letter. This type of letter can provide valuable insight into a person’s character and work ethic, and can help them stand out to potential employers. In this article, we’ll provide tips for writing a strong reference support letter, as well as seven examples that you can use as a starting point. You can edit these examples as needed to fit your own situation.
Tips for Writing a Reference Support Letter
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you write your reference support letter:
1. Choose a clear and descriptive title.
Be sure to choose a title that accurately reflects the purpose of your letter. This will help the reader understand what the letter is about right away, and will make it easier for them to find the information they need.
2. Provide a detailed explanation of why you’re writing the letter.
Start your letter off with a brief explanation of why you’re writing it, and what the reader can expect to find inside. This will help set the tone for the rest of your letter.
3. Use a clear and professional tone.
Your letter should be written in a formal, professional tone, but it should also be warm and friendly. Make sure to use language that is appropriate for the situation, and avoid using overly complicated words or phrases.
4. Be specific about the person’s skills and accomplishments.
When writing about the person you’re recommending, be as specific as possible about their skills, accomplishments, and work ethic. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points, and avoid vague or general statements.
5. Keep it brief and to the point.
Your letter should be no more than one or two pages long. Make sure to get straight to the point, and avoid rambling or going off on tangents.
6. Use a complimentary close that fits the tone of your letter.
Choose a complimentary closing that is appropriate for the tone of your letter. If you’re writing to a potential employer, for example, you might use “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” If you’re writing to a friend or family member, you might use a more informal closing, such as “With love” or “Yours truly.”
7. Proofread your letter carefully.
Before sending your letter, make sure to proofread it carefully for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. You might also consider having someone else read it over to catch any mistakes you might have missed.
Seven Examples of Reference Support Letters
Example 1: Reference support letter for a former colleague
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I’m writing to enthusiastically recommend [Employee’s Name] for any job that he or she might be applying for. I had the pleasure of working with [Employee’s Name] for [length of time], and during that time, I was consistently impressed by his/her hard work, dedication, and positive attitude. He/She is a true asset to any team, and I am confident that he/she will excel in any role he/she takes on.
During our time working together, [Employee’s Name] consistently demonstrated the ability to work well under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and handle multiple tasks at once. He/She is a natural leader, and was often called upon to help manage other members of the team. His/Her strong organizational skills and attention to detail also helped keep our projects on track and on budget.
I have no doubt that [Employee’s Name] will be a valuable asset to any organization that he/she joins. If you have any further questions about his/her skills or qualifications, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Reference support letter for a recent graduate
Dear [Admissions Committee Member],
I’m writing to strongly recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your esteemed institution. I had the pleasure of teaching [Student’s Name] in several courses during his/her time at [Name of School], and I was consistently impressed by his/her intelligence, dedication, and enthusiasm for learning.
[Student’s Name] is an outstanding student who consistently demonstrated the ability to think critically, analyze complex ideas, and communicate his/her thoughts clearly and persuasively. He/She consistently went above and beyond in his/her coursework, often taking on additional research projects or presenting his/her work at academic conferences.
I have no doubt that [Student’s Name] will thrive in your rigorous academic environment, and will make significant contributions to your institution. If you have any further questions about his/her qualifications or accomplishments, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Reference support letter for a volunteer
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator],
I’m writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Volunteer’s Name] for any volunteer position that he/she might be interested in. I had the pleasure of working with [Volunteer’s Name] for [length of time], and during that time, I was consistently impressed by his/her commitment to our organization’s mission and his/her tireless efforts to make a difference in our community.
[Volunteer’s Name] is a true leader who consistently went above and beyond in his/her volunteer work. He/She was always willing to take on new challenges and help out wherever he/she was needed, whether that meant organizing a fundraising event, coordinating a service project, or simply pitching in to help with day-to-day tasks. His/Her positive attitude and can-do spirit were an inspiration to all of us.
I have no doubt that [Volunteer’s Name] will be a valuable asset to any organization he/she volunteers with. If you have any further questions about his/her qualifications or accomplishments, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Reference support letter for a job applicant
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I’m writing to enthusiastically support [Applicant’s Name] for the [Position] role at your company. I had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] for [length of time], and during that time, I was consistently impressed by his/her skills, work ethic, and dedication to his/her work.
[Applicant’s Name] is a true professional who consistently goes above and beyond to get the job done right. He/She is a quick learner who is always willing to take on new challenges and adapt to changing circumstances. His/Her strong communication skills and ability to work well under pressure make him/her an ideal candidate for any position that requires teamwork and collaboration.
Overall, I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be an outstanding addition to your team, and I fully endorse his/her candidacy for the position at your company. If you have any further questions about his/her qualifications or accomplishments, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Reference support letter for a scholarship application
Dear [Scholarship Committee Member],
I’m writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Student’s Name] for the [Name of Scholarship] scholarship. I had the pleasure of teaching [Student’s Name] in several courses during his/her time at [Name of School], and I was consistently impressed by his/her intelligence, work ethic, and dedication to his/her studies.
[Student’s Name] is an outstanding student who consistently demonstrated the ability to excel academically, while also taking on leadership roles in extracurricular activities and community service projects. He/She is a natural leader who is passionate about making a difference in the world, and I have no doubt that he/she will continue to do so in the future.
If you have any further questions about [Student’s Name]’s qualifications or accomplishments, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I wholeheartedly endorse his/her candidacy for the [Name of Scholarship] scholarship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Reference support letter for a colleague seeking a promotion
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I’m writing to wholeheartedly support [Employee’s Name]’s candidacy for the [Position] role at our company. I have had the pleasure of working with [Employee’s Name] for [length of time], and during that time, I have consistently been impressed by his/her skills, work ethic, and dedication to our organization.
[Employee’s Name] is a natural leader who consistently goes above and beyond to get the job done right. He/She is a quick learner who is always willing to take on new challenges and adapt to changing circumstances. His/Her strong communication skills and ability to work well under pressure make him/her an ideal candidate for any position that requires teamwork and collaboration.
Overall, I believe that [Employee’s Name] would be an outstanding addition to our team, and I fully endorse his/her candidacy for the [Position] role. If you have any further questions about his/her qualifications or accomplishments, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Reference support letter for a friend seeking a personal reference
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I’m writing to wholeheartedly recommend [Friend’s Name] as a trustworthy and reliable individual. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Friend’s Name] for [length of time], and during that time, I have consistently been impressed by his/her honesty, kindness, and dedication to his/her friends and family.
[Friend’s Name] is a true gem of a person who consistently goes out of his/her way to help others. He/She is a reliable and trustworthy friend who always puts the needs of others before his/her own. His/Her positive attitude and infectious personality make him/her a joy to be around, and I feel lucky to have him/her in my life.
If you have any further questions about [Friend’s Name]’s character or personality, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I wholeheartedly endorse him/her as a personal reference.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a reference support letter?
A strong reference support letter should include specific details about the person you’re recommending, such as their skills, accomplishments, and work ethic. It should also include a clear and detailed explanation of why you’re writing the letter, and should be written in a professional but friendly tone. Be sure to proofread your letter carefully before sending it, and keep it brief and to the point.
How long should a reference support letter be?
Your reference support letter should be no more than one or two pages long. Be sure to get straight to the point, and avoid rambling or going off on tangents.
What should I include in the greeting of a reference support letter?
Your greeting should be professional but friendly. Use the recipient’s name (e.g. “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Hiring Manager”), and be sure to use a title that accurately reflects their role or position.
What should I include in the body of a reference support letter?
In the body of your letter, be sure to include specific details about the person you’re recommending, such as their skills, accomplishments, and work ethic. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points, and avoid vague or general statements.
What should I include in the complimentary close of a reference support letter?
Your complimentary close should be appropriate for the tone of your letter. If you’re writing to a potential employer, for example, you might use “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” If you’re writing to a friend or family member, you might use a more informal closing, such as “With love” or “Yours truly.”
Should I proofread my reference support letter?
Yes! Before sending your letter, make sure to proofread it carefully for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. You might also consider having someone else read it over to catch any mistakes you might have missed.
Can I use examples of reference support letters to write my own?
Absolutely! The examples provided in this article can be used as a starting point for your own reference support letter. Simply edit them as needed to fit your own situation.
Conclusion
Writing a reference support letter can be a great way to support someone in their job search or academic pursuits. By following the tips provided in this article, and using the examples provided as a starting point, you can create a strong and effective letter that will help the person you’re recommending stand out to potential employers or admissions committees.