Write A Letter Of Reference - Have Fun Writing Letters

Write A Letter Of Reference

Until the early eighties, employment references worked and served their purpose relatively well. They tended to be very candid and were sometimes too honest. However, in recent years, faculty, administrators, and employers do not tend to provide frank information about their former students and employees, either verbally or in writing.

If you're requesting a letter of reference or recommendation be written on your behalf, be sure to supply your reference with this same necessary material.

Here are some tips on preparing references, and some samples of reference letters and the types of information that may properly be released during a reference check.


* Remember to sign the letter before mailing it.
* Highlight your strengths and accomplishments without bragging.
* Qualify yourself early in every reference letter you write. Say what qualifies you to give such a reference and testament to the caliber employee this job seeker would be. Be sure to write about when you met and how long you have known the job seeker.
* Choose several of your qualities and strengths that match the current situation; do not list everything you have ever done.


Below is a sample reference letter. Hopefully you find it useful.

In the introduction of a reference letter, especially an employment reference it is important to state the nature of your relationship with the applicant. You should tell in what capacity you know the applicant (teacher, former employer, family friend) as well as how long you have known him/her. You should then write a short summary as to your initial impressions of the applicant and what impact they made on you. This should be a short and succinct paragraph.

The second, third, and fourth paragraphs of a letter usually list your positive qualities and attributes. These are often followed by anecdotes and examples of the behavior. This will assure potential employees that you truly exhibited these qualities, and that they are not blind praise. Some of the best things that a former employer can write about you are that you: display integrity, and are dedicated, and a reliable employee. This can assure a potential employee that there were no problems in your previous employment, and that you left of your own accord.

As with most writing, your conclusion will most likely be an overview of the body of the letter. Here you should again state that you feel the applicant would be a great addition to a company or firm, and mention any more details that you feel are important. Then be sure to mention that the potential employer can feel free to contact you for more information, if it is necessary.

Write A Letter Of Reference