Need to write a professional reference letter? Here are 3 simple steps to get started:
1. Gather the information you need to know.
Before you write anything, you need to know who or what you're writing about. The more specific you are, the more personalized you can make your content.
Here's our suggestions for writing a professional reference letter:
Reference seeker's name: [name of person seeking a reference]
Job/school/etc. they are applying for: [job, school, etc.]
Your relationship with the reference seeker: [your relationship to the person seeking a reference]
Strengths, skills, and accomplishments of the reference seeker that make them a good candidate for this job/school/etc.: [strengths, skills, and accomplishments of the person seeking a reference]
2. Determine the structure of your output.
The structure of your content is just as important as the content itself. The structure of your content is how you're going to arrange the information in the content to make it easier for the readers to read and understand.
Greet the reader
Explain who you are and how you know the person being referenced
Describe your relationship with the person being referenced
List some of their strengths, skills, and accomplishments that make them a good candidate for this job/school/etc.
Sign off in a formal tone
3. Write the content or use Copy.ai to help you get started. Once you have your structure down, you can start writing the content.
Example:
Hi!
I'm writing to recommend [name of person seeking a reference] for a position at [job, school, etc.]. [Name of person seeking a reference] is an excellent candidate for the position because of their strong work ethic and communication skills, as well as their ability to handle difficult situations with grace.
I've known [name of person seeking a reference] for [how long]. We met when she was working at [company name]. While she was there, [she was responsible for].
Since then, we've kept in touch and I've seen her continue to grow as a person and as a professional. She is extremely dedicated to her work and always makes sure that she does her best. She is always willing to take on new challenges and is extremely resourceful when she encounters problems with a project or task.
When I was hiring for my own company [company name], I knew that I needed someone who could handle a wide variety of tasks with ease, but also someone who would be able to work independently without supervision. [Name of person seeking a reference] exceeded all expectations in these areas and more.
I believe that she would be an excellent addition to your team and I hope that you will consider her application.
Best regards,
[your name]
Example:
Dear [name],
I am writing to recommend [name of person seeking a reference] for your consideration. I have known [name of person seeking a reference] for [length of time], and have had the opportunity to work with them during my time as a [position].
[Name of person seeking a reference] is an [occupation], and has an extensive knowledge of [skill]. They are an incredibly hard worker, and always strives to exceed expectations. They are an excellent communicator, and has strong interpersonal skills. Their ability to work well with others and to understand their needs makes them an excellent team player.
[Name of person seeking a reference] has demonstrated their ability to use the latest technologies, including [technology]. They're always learning new things and adapting her skills to stay up-to-date with the latest trends.
I believe [name of person seeking a reference] would be a great asset to your company or organization. I hope you will consider their application!
Best regards,
[your name]
Example:
Dear [reader],
I am a [job title] at [company name] and I am writing to you as a reference for [reference seeker's name].
[Reference seeker's name] is applying to [job/school/etc.], and I am happy to provide my recommendation.
I have known [reference seeker's name] for [number of years]. We met while working at [company name] and have maintained a strong relationship since.
[Reference seeker's name] is an excellent employee, who has proven over and over again that they are ready for more responsibility. At [company name], they were responsible for managing our [department] and handled it with ease and professionalism. They are able to work well with others, keep organized, and always provide excellent results.
I would be delighted to provide a recommendation for [reference seeker's name] for any position for which they are applying, as I know that they will be a great asset to any organization.
Best regards,
[your name]
1. A professional reference letter can give potential employers an insight into an applicant's character and work ethic.
2. A professional reference letter can provide an employer with an overview of an applicant's skills and qualifications.
3. A professional reference letter can help an employer make a more informed decision about an applicant's suitability for a particular role.
-A former employer
-A former colleague
-A former client
-A former teacher
-A former professor
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