Write Reference Letters - It's All Here

Write Reference Letters

Begin a letter of reference by stating how long you have known the person, and in what capacity. Use an evaluation of how well the person suits the position he or she is applying for. Point out the person's positive points and downplay the negative.

Your qualifications to be writing the reference letter. No good sample reference letter will allow you to get away from doing this. You need to explain your connection to the person, your personal background, and how long you've know the person you're writing the reference letter before. If you're a friend, say so.

Below are some tips to think about when preparing a reference letter.

* Type your reference letter in a standard business format.
* Start by identifying your relationship with the person for whom you're writing the reference letter.
* When requesting a recommendation letter, it is helpful to provide the writer with a copy of your current resume and cover letter. Your resume should list your accomplishments and your other relevant experience that make you an ideal candidate for the position, a description of the job or program you are interested in, and/or a current transcript or list of relevant courses you have taken in your high school, undergraduate, or graduate career.


Here is a reference letter sample for you.

Introduction

Introduce yourself as the recommender. State your professional position, how you know the applicant, the length of your relationship, and any other pertinent information to build your credibility as a knowledgeable contributor.

Provide an overview of your general impressions of the applicant.


The body of your reference letter should be around three paragraphs. This will give you a chance to list the three most positive qualities that the applicant possesses, one per paragraph. It is recommended that you first list what you feel is the applicant's best quality and filter down from there. Be sure that for each positive quality or attribute you list that you give a specific example of how or when this quality was demonstrated. This is where your reference letter could become over worded and long, so keep in mind that you should be brief and to the point.

Summary

This section of the reference letter template contains a brief summary of why are you are recommending the person. State that you highly recommend the person or you recommend without reservation or something similar.

Conclusion

The concluding paragraph of the reference letter template contains an offer to provide more information. Include a phone number within the paragraph, include the phone number and email address in the return address section of your letter, or in your signature.

Sincerely,

Writer Name
Title

Write Reference Letters