A written reference for employee is a letter that provides information about the employee’s work history, job performance, and character. This letter is typically written by a former employer or supervisor and is often requested by potential employers as part of the hiring process.
If you are asked to write a written reference for an employee, it is important to provide an honest and accurate assessment of their skills and abilities. To help you get started, we have provided some tips and examples below.
Tips for Writing a Written Reference For Employee
When writing a written reference for an employee, follow these tips:
1. Use a formal tone
Since this is a professional document, it’s important to use a formal tone. Avoid using slang, abbreviations, or other casual language.
2. Start with a positive greeting
Begin the letter with a friendly greeting, such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
3. Be specific
Provide specific examples of the employee’s skills and accomplishments. Use specific numbers, dates, and other details to help illustrate your points.
4. Keep it concise
A written reference should be no more than one page long. Make sure to only include relevant information and avoid repeating information that is already included in the employee’s resume or application.
5. Check for accuracy
Before sending the letter, make sure to double-check all information for accuracy. This includes the employee’s name, job title, and dates of employment.
6. Use a professional complimentary close
End the letter with a professional complimentary close, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”
Examples of Written Reference For Employee
Reference for Outstanding Sales Performance
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for [employee name], who worked as a sales representative at [company name] from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, [employee name] consistently exceeded their sales targets and demonstrated excellent customer service skills. One notable example of [employee name]’s exceptional performance is when they [specific example of achievement].
I highly recommend [employee name] for any sales position and I am confident that they will be an asset to your organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Dependability and Work Ethic
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [employee name] for employment. [Employee name] worked for me as a [job title] at [company name] from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, [employee name] consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a high level of dependability. They were always willing to take on additional responsibilities and worked well under pressure.
One notable example of [employee name]’s dedication to their work is when they [specific example of achievement].
I am confident that [employee name] will be an asset to your organization and I highly recommend them for employment.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Exceptional Customer Service Skills
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [employee name] for any customer service position. [Employee name] worked as a customer service representative at [company name] from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, they consistently provided exceptional customer service and demonstrated strong communication skills.
One notable example of [employee name]’s customer service skills is when they [specific example of achievement].
I highly recommend [employee name] for any customer service position and I am confident that they will be an asset to your organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Leadership Abilities
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [employee name] for any leadership position. [Employee name] worked as a [job title] at [company name] from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, they demonstrated exceptional leadership abilities and was instrumental in [specific example of achievement].
[Employee name] was also responsible for [specific example of responsibility] and did an excellent job of [specific example of achievement].
I highly recommend [employee name] for any leadership position and I am confident that they will be an asset to your organization.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Analytical Skills
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for [employee name], who worked as a [job title] at [company name] from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, [employee name] demonstrated exceptional analytical skills and was able to [specific example of achievement].
[Employee name] was also responsible for [specific example of responsibility] and did an excellent job of [specific example of achievement].
I highly recommend [employee name] for any position that requires strong analytical skills and I am confident that they will be an asset to your organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Creative Abilities
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [employee name] for any creative position. [Employee name] worked as a [job title] at [company name] from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, they demonstrated exceptional creative abilities and was able to [specific example of achievement].
[Employee name] was also responsible for [specific example of responsibility] and did an excellent job of [specific example of achievement].
I highly recommend [employee name] for any position that requires strong creative abilities and I am confident that they will be an asset to your organization.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Teamwork Skills
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [employee name] for any position that requires strong teamwork skills. [Employee name] worked as a [job title] at [company name] from [start date] to [end date]. During this time, they demonstrated exceptional teamwork skills and was able to [specific example of achievement].
[Employee name] was also responsible for [specific example of responsibility] and did an excellent job of [specific example of achievement].
I highly recommend [employee name] for any position that requires strong teamwork skills and I am confident that they will be an asset to your organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a written reference for employee?
A written reference for employee should include information about the employee’s job performance, work history, and character. This can include specific examples of the employee’s skills and accomplishments, as well as any relevant personal qualities that make them a good fit for the position they are applying for.
Who should I address the written reference to?
If the employee has provided the name of the hiring manager or company, address the letter to that person. If no specific name has been provided, use a general greeting such as “To Whom It May Concern.”
Do I need to include my contact information in the written reference?
It’s a good idea to include your contact information in case the employer wants to follow up with you or has any additional questions. Include your name, job title, phone number, and email address.
Can I use a template to write the written reference?
You can use a template as a starting point, but make sure to customize it to the specific employee and position. Avoid using generic language or phrases that could apply to any employee.
What if I don’t have anything positive to say about the employee?
If you don’t have anything positive to say about the employee, it’s best to decline the request for a reference. Providing a negative reference could harm the employee’s chances of getting hired and could reflect poorly on you as well.
Can I include my personal contact information in the written reference?
Avoid including personal contact information, such as your home address, in the written reference. Stick to your professional contact information, such as your work phone number and email address.
Conclusion
Writing a written reference for employee can be a valuable way to help a former employee advance their career. By following these tips and examples, you can provide an honest and accurate assessment of the employee’s skills and abilities, and help them stand out to potential employers.