If you are stepping down from your position, it is essential to leave a good impression with your employer. One way to do this is to request a reference letter from them. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to request for a reference letter and provide seven examples you can edit and use as needed.
Tips for Requesting a Resignation Letter Reference Letter
Here are some tips to guide you when requesting a reference letter from your employer:
1. Decide on the Best Person to Ask
Before requesting for a reference letter, you should choose the most suitable individual to ask. Ideally, this person should be someone who knows your work and can vouch for your performance.
2. Schedule a Meeting to Discuss the Request
It is best to talk to your employer in person about your request for a reference letter. Scheduling a meeting allows you to explain why you are leaving and why you need a reference letter. Make sure to give your employer enough time to prepare the letter.
3. Provide Relevant Information
When requesting a reference letter, provide your employer with all the relevant information they might need to write the letter. This includes your job title, responsibilities, and accomplishments while working in the company.
4. Offer to Draft the Letter
You can make the process easier for your employer by offering to draft the letter yourself. This way, you can ensure that the letter contains all the necessary details that will support your job search.
5. Be Polite and Grateful
Remember to approach your employer politely and show gratitude for their time and effort. Thank them in advance and assure them that you will appreciate any help they can give.
6. Follow Up
If you do not receive the letter within the agreed timeframe, do not hesitate to follow up on the request. A gentle reminder can help speed up the process and ensure that you receive the letter promptly.
7. Customize the Letter
Make sure to customize the letter to suit your needs. This means tailoring it to the job or program you are applying for.
Seven Examples of Resignation Letter Reference Letter Request
Example 1: Request for a Reference Letter After Resignation
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to request a reference letter from you after my resignation from my position as [Job Title] in [Company Name].
As I venture out into the job market, I believe that your reference will play a vital role in my search for new opportunities. I would appreciate it if you could write a letter highlighting my achievements and contributions to the company during my tenure.
Thank you very much for your time and assistance.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Request for a Reference Letter for Further Studies
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to request a reference letter from you as I pursue further studies in [Course/Program Name].
During my time at [Company Name], I learned valuable skills and gained the necessary experience to excel in this field. I believe that a reference letter from you would greatly enhance my application and increase my chances of getting accepted into the program.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Request for a Reference Letter for a New Job
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for a new job as [New Job Position] in [New Company Name].
As you know, I held the position of [Current Job Title] in [Company Name] for [Number of Years]. During this time, I developed various skills and qualities that are relevant to the new position. I am confident that a reference letter from you will showcase my abilities and increase my chances of getting hired.
Thank you for your time and support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Request for a Reference Letter for Graduate School
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for graduate school at [School Name].
As my employer, you are in a unique position to comment on my capabilities, work ethic, and overall performance. I believe that a reference letter from you would be valuable to my application and help me achieve my academic goals.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Request for a Reference Letter for a Scholarship
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for a scholarship to further my studies.
As someone who has witnessed my academic and professional growth firsthand, I believe that a reference letter from you would greatly enhance my chances of receiving the scholarship. I would appreciate it if you could highlight my achievements and strengths as a candidate for the scholarship.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Request for a Reference Letter for a Teaching Position
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for a teaching position at [School Name].
As someone who has worked with me in a professional capacity, I believe that you are in a unique position to comment on my teaching abilities, work ethic, and overall performance. I would appreciate it if you could write a reference letter highlighting my skills and qualifications as a teacher.
Thank you for your time and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Request for a Reference Letter for a Volunteer Position
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to request a reference letter from you as I apply for a volunteer position with [Organization Name].
I believe that my experience with [Company Name] has prepared me well for this new opportunity. A reference letter from you would help showcase my skills and qualifications as a volunteer and increase my chances of being selected for the role.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a resignation letter reference letter request?
A resignation letter reference letter request is a letter written by an employee who is resigning from their position, asking their employer to provide a reference letter that they can use in their job search.
How do I request a reference letter after resigning?
You can request a reference letter from your employer after resigning by scheduling a meeting to discuss your request, providing relevant information, offering to draft the letter, being polite and grateful, and following up if necessary.
Who should I ask for a reference letter?
You should ask someone who knows your work and can vouch for your performance. Ideally, this person should be your immediate supervisor or manager.
What should I include in my reference letter request?
You should include your job title, responsibilities, and accomplishments while working in the company. You should also specify why you need the letter and provide any relevant information to help your employer draft the letter.
Should I customize my reference letter for each application?
Yes, you should customize your reference letter to suit the job or program you are applying for. This means tailoring it to highlight the skills and qualities that are most relevant to the position or program.
How soon should I follow up on my reference letter request?
You should follow up after the agreed timeframe has passed, usually after two weeks. A gentle reminder can help speed up the process and ensure that you receive the letter promptly.
Conclusion
Requesting a reference letter after resigning from a job is an essential step in securing new opportunities. By following the tips provided in this article and using the examples provided, you can request for a reference letter that showcases your skills and accomplishments, increasing your chances of securing your next career move.