If you’ve been asked to write a reference letter, it’s important to understand what it should include and how to format it properly. In this article, we’ll provide some examples of written reference letters and offer tips for writing your own. Whether you’re an employer, teacher, or personal contact, these examples can help you create a strong and effective reference letter.
Tips for Written Reference Letter Example
Before we dive into the examples, here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your reference letter:
Start with a Title
Provide a clear and concise title that explains the purpose of the reference letter.
Continue with a Detailed and In-Depth Explanation
A reference letter should include specific examples and details that highlight the individual’s strengths and qualifications.
Let’s Explain Step by Step
Break down the letter into sections, such as an introduction, body, and conclusion, to make it easier to read and follow.
Written Reference Letter Examples
Example 1: Employment Reference Letter
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee’s Name] for employment at your organization. In the time that [Employee’s Name] worked for my company, [Company Name], I was impressed with their [specific skills and qualities]. [Employee’s Name] consistently [accomplishment or behavior] and demonstrated [specific quality or trait].
I am confident that [Employee’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your team and I recommend them without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Academic Reference Letter
Dear [Admissions Committee or Professor’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] for [program or scholarship name] at [University Name]. As [Student’s Name]’s [teacher or professor], I have had the pleasure of watching them grow and develop into an intelligent, hardworking, and dedicated student.
Throughout [his/her] time at [school name], [Student’s Name] consistently demonstrated [specific skills and qualities]. [He/She] impressed me with [specific achievement or project]. I have no doubt that [Student’s Name] will continue to excel in [his/her] academic pursuits and would be an asset to your program.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Character Reference Letter
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Person’s Name] for [specific purpose, such as a job or housing application]. As [his/her] [relationship to person], I have had the pleasure of getting to know [Person’s Name] on a personal level and can attest to [his/her] [specific qualities].
[Person’s Name] is [specific example of quality or character trait], and has always been [specific example of quality or character trait]. I recommend [him/her] without reservation.
If you would like to discuss [Person’s Name] further or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Volunteer Reference Letter
Dear [Organization’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Volunteer’s Name] for any volunteer position at your organization. [He/She] has been volunteering with [Organization’s Name] for [length of time] and has been a dedicated and enthusiastic member of our team.
[Volunteer’s Name] consistently demonstrated [specific skills and qualities], and was always willing to go above and beyond for our organization. [He/She] was an essential part of our team and we will miss [him/her] greatly.
If you have any further questions or would like to discuss [Volunteer’s Name]’s contributions further, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Personal Reference Letter
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Person’s Name] for any opportunity that may arise. [He/She] is a [specific quality or character trait] individual who has always impressed me with [specific example of quality or character trait].
[Person’s Name] is [specific example of quality or character trait] and has always been [specific example of quality or character trait]. I cannot recommend [him/her] highly enough.
If you have any further questions or would like to discuss [Person’s Name]’s qualifications further, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Business Reference Letter
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Business’s Name] for any future business ventures. In the time that [Business’s Name] has worked with my company, [Company Name], they consistently demonstrated [specific skills and qualities] and [specific achievements].
[Business’s Name] was always professional and timely in their work, and I was consistently impressed with their [specific quality or trait]. I recommend [Business’s Name] without hesitation.
If you have any further questions or would like to discuss [Business’s Name]’s qualifications further, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Recommendation for Promotion
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee’s Name] for promotion to [position name]. [He/She] has been a valuable member of our team and consistently demonstrated [specific skills and qualities] in [his/her] work.
[Employee’s Name]’s accomplishments include [specific achievements], and [he/she] has shown a dedication to [specific quality or trait] that has made [him/her] an essential part of our team. I highly recommend [Employee’s Name] for this promotion and believe that [he/she] would excel in this new role.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reference letter?
A reference letter is a written document that highlights an individual’s qualifications, skills, and achievements. It is typically requested by a potential employer, academic institution, or housing provider as part of an application process.
Who should write a reference letter?
A reference letter can be written by anyone who has worked closely with or knows the individual well, such as an employer, teacher, or personal contact.
What should be included in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include specific examples and details that highlight the individual’s strengths and qualifications. It should also include the writer’s contact information and a clear statement of recommendation.
How should a reference letter be formatted?
A reference letter should be formatted like a business letter, with the writer’s contact information, date, and a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
How long should a reference letter be?
A reference letter should be one to two pages in length and include specific examples of the individual’s qualifications and achievements.
Can I edit and customize the examples?
Yes, the examples provided can be edited and customized to fit your specific needs and the individual you are recommending. However, be sure to keep the overall format and structure of the letter intact.
Conclusion
A well-written reference letter can make all the difference when it comes to securing a job, academic opportunity, or housing. By following the tips and using the examples provided in this article, you can create a strong and effective reference letter that highlights the individual’s qualifications and achievements. Remember to keep the letter concise, specific, and professional, and to always provide contact information for further questions or discussion.