A strong letter of reference is essential for job seekers. It provides employers with valuable insights into an applicant’s skills, experience, and character. It can significantly impact their chances of landing a new role.
Crafting an effective letter requires careful consideration. Focus on highlighting the applicant’s key strengths and accomplishments. Tailor each letter to match the specific requirements of the position.
These reference letter examples are designed to help you. Modify them to suit the individual. Remember to always be honest and provide concrete examples when possible.
Below are sample letters for your review. They cover different employment levels and situations. Use them as inspiration for creating your own compelling reference letters.
Sample Reference Letters
Sample Letter 1: For Former Employee
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for [Position Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Employee Name] at [Company Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role].
During their time here, [Employee Name] consistently demonstrated [Key Skill 1] and [Key Skill 2]. For example, [Specific accomplishment showcasing skill 1]. They are a [Positive Adjective] and dedicated individual.
[Employee Name]’s contribution was significant to the team. [Specific achievement illustrating their contribution]. They always exceeded expectations. I am confident they will be a valuable asset to your organization.
Please feel free to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 2: For a Student
[Date]
[Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name]
[Institution/Company Name]
[Institution/Company Address]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Hiring Manager Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Student Name] for [Program/Position Name]. I have known [Student Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role/Professor].
[Student Name] has consistently impressed me with their [Academic Strengths]. Their [Specific Project/Assignment] was particularly outstanding, demonstrating [Skills Demonstrated]. They are also a [Positive Attribute] and enthusiastic learner.
Beyond academics, [Student Name] is a [Positive Character Trait] and active member of the community. Their involvement in [Extracurricular Activity] shows their commitment to [Value demonstrated]. I am certain they would be an excellent addition to your organization/program.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 3: Character Reference
[Date]
[Recipient Name/Hiring Manager Name]
[Recipient Address/Company Name]
Dear [Recipient Name/Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Individual’s Name]. I have known [Individual’s Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship].
Throughout our acquaintance, [Individual’s Name] has consistently demonstrated [Positive Trait 1] and [Positive Trait 2]. They are a [Descriptive Adjective] individual with a strong sense of [Value].
I have always found [Individual’s Name] to be [Positive Attribute] and reliable. They are a person of high moral character and integrity. I am confident they possess the qualities necessary to be successful.
Please feel free to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 4: Volunteer Role
[Date]
[Recipient Name/Hiring Manager Name]
[Organization Name]
Dear [Recipient Name/Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Volunteer Name] for [Position or Opportunity]. I have known [Volunteer Name] for [Number] months/years as their Supervisor at [Organization Name].
During their time as a volunteer, [Volunteer Name] consistently demonstrated [Key Skill] and [Dedication]. They took initiative by [Specific example of their initiative]. Their helpful attitude impacted positively our goals.
[Volunteer Name]’s contribution was valuable to [Project/Team]. They quickly grasped new concepts and were always eager to assist. Their ability to [Key Ability] sets them apart.
I am certain that [Volunteer Name] will continue to contribute positively. I am confident that they will be an excellent choice for your organization. They should be encouraged and be a great employee.
Please feel free to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 5: Scholarship Recommendation
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee]
[Scholarship Foundation]
Dear [Scholarship Committee],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Student Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have had the privilege of knowing [Student Name] as their [Teacher/Mentor] for [Number] years.
[Student Name] is an exceptional student with a strong academic record. Their grades in [Subject Area] are outstanding. Furthermore, they demonstrate a genuine curiosity and a passion for learning.
Beyond academics, [Student Name] is an active and engaged member of the school community. They are a [Leadership Role] and have demonstrated a commitment to [Cause]. Also, they are very empathetic.
[Student Name] has shown determination, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. I am confident that they will excel in their future academic pursuits. Awarding [Student Name] this scholarship would be an investment in a promising future.
Please feel free to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 6: Co-Worker Recommendation
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Coworker Name] for the [Position] at your company. I have worked closely with [Coworker Name] at [Current Company] for the past [Number] years.
[Coworker Name] is a dedicated and highly skilled professional. They excel at [Skill 1] and [Skill 2]. They consistently deliver high-quality work even under pressure. [Positive attribute about work].
I have been consistently impressed by [Coworker Name]’s strong work ethic and collaborative spirit. They are a valuable team member who readily shares their knowledge and expertise. Their ability to solve problems makes them good.
[Coworker Name]’s positive attitude and ability to work well with others make them an asset to any team. I am confident that they will quickly become a valuable member of your company.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 7: For a Supervisor
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am pleased to provide a letter of recommendation for [Supervisor’s Name] for the position of [Position] at your company. I had the privilege of reporting to [Supervisor’s Name] for [Number] years at [Company Name].
[Supervisor’s Name] is an exceptional leader and mentor. They possess strong strategic thinking skills and are able to effectively motivate and guide their team. [Positive attribute about work].
Under [Supervisor’s Name]’s leadership, our team consistently exceeded performance goals and successfully implemented several key initiatives. They foster a positive and collaborative work environment that promotes growth and innovation. They are also kind and positive.
[Supervisor’s Name] is an invaluable asset to any organization. They would contribute significantly to the success of your company. I recommend this individual with great confidence.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 8: Personal Recommendation for a Neighbor
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Neighbor’s Name] for the [Position Name]. I have known [Neighbor’s Name] as my neighbor for [Number] years. During this time, I have come to know them as a reliable, trustworthy, and hardworking individual.
[Neighbor’s Name] is always willing to lend a helping hand. They are a valuable member of our community. [Positive attribute about community work]. They maintain their front and back yard.
I have personally witnessed [Neighbor’s Name]’s dedication. I am confident they would bring the same level of dedication and commitment to their work. [Positive attribute about character].
[Neighbor’s Name] is a responsible and dependable individual. I highly recommend them for any endeavor they may pursue. They should be employed with no issues.
Please feel free to contact me should you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 9: Recommendation for Babysitting Job
[Date]
[Parents’ Names]
[Address]
Dear [Parents’ Names],
I am writing to recommend [Babysitter’s Name] for your babysitting needs. I have known [Babysitter’s Name] for [Number] months/years. They have babysat for my children, [Child 1’s Name] and [Child 2’s Name], on several occasions.
[Babysitter’s Name] is responsible, reliable, and caring. My children enjoy spending time with them. She is responsible with meals. Also, she enforces rules.
I have always felt comfortable leaving my children in [Babysitter’s Name]’s care. She follows instructions carefully and handles situations calmly and effectively. She is good for homework too.
[Babysitter’s Name] is an excellent choice for any family seeking a trustworthy and dependable babysitter. I can say that she is worth it and will be good with your children.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 10: Rental Application Recommendation
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name/Rental Company Name]
[Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name/Rental Company Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a prospective tenant. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years as their [Relationship].
[Applicant’s Name] is a responsible and respectful individual. They are considerate, clean and quiet. They are responsible and always pay on time.
As a [Relationship – e.g., neighbor, friend], I have always known [Applicant’s Name] to be courteous and considerate of others. I am confident that they would be a good tenant. They also mow the lawn.
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a reliable and conscientious tenant. I hope they can get the apartment. They will be good neighbours.
Please feel free to contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 11: Graduate School Recommendation
[Date]
[Admissions Committee]
[Department Name]
Dear [Admissions Committee],
It is with immense pleasure that I recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to your graduate program in [Field of Study]. I have known [Student’s Name] for [Number] years as their [Professor/Advisor].
[Student’s Name] is an exceptional student with a keen intellect and a genuine passion for [Field of Study]. Their academic performance in my courses has been consistently outstanding. They are really bright.
[Student’s Name]’s research abilities are also remarkable. Their contributions to our research project on [Research Topic] were invaluable. They demonstrated a strong analytical mind.
I am confident that [Student’s Name] possesses the intellectual capacity, dedication, and research skills necessary to excel in your graduate program. Therefore, I recommend them.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 12: Internship Recommendation
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student’s Name] for an internship at [Company Name]. I have known [Student’s Name] for [Number] years as their [Professor/Instructor].
[Student’s Name] is a highly motivated and capable student. They excel in [Relevant Skills] and have a strong understanding of [Field of Study]. They are very good with computers.
[Student’s Name] also possesses excellent communication and teamwork skills. They are a quick learner and are always eager to take on new challenges. They are willing to work the hours.
I am confident that [Student’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your team. They would make the most of their internship. They are willing to move out of state.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 13: For promotion
[Date]
[Manager Name]
[Company Name]
Dear [Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Employee Name] for promotion to [Position]. I have worked directly with [Employee Name] as their [Colleague/Supervisor] for [Number] years.
[Employee Name] has consistently exceeded expectations in their current role. They have also improved their skills in the previous year. Their expertise in [area] is invaluable to our team and company.
[Employee Name] has consistently demonstrated leadership potential. They are also reliable. The company will grow as well with this employee’s promotion.
I am confident that [Employee Name] is prepared to take on the challenges and responsibilities of the new role. I highly recommend promoting [Employee Name].
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 14: For professional schools
[Date]
[Admission Name]
[University Name]
Dear [Admission Name],
It is with great enthusiam that I recommend [Applicant Name] for [Professional] programs. I have taught or supervised [Applicant Name] for approximately [Time period] and have known them well since then.
First, [Applicant Name] has demonstrated outstanding performance in the areas, such as communication and presentation skill. [He or she] is always on time. Second, [Applicant Name] always delivers result.
Beyond the achievements above, [Applicant Name] is well-respected and liked by other colleagues, and also clients as well. I trust their value on integrity and commitment.
Based on these above traits and skills, I believe [Applicant Name] is a candidate that will strive and survive in the intense environments of professional schools. Therefore, I strongly recommend.
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 15: For Fellowship
[Date]
[Applicant Name]
[Applicant Address]
Dear [Applicant Name],
I am writing to endorse [Applicant Name] for [Organization] Fellowship. Since [Year], I have known [Applicant Name] as professor and mentor who is very helpful to me and supportive.
I am impressed and believe that [Applicant Name] has a passion to help the communities around through volunteering efforts and charity events. They have worked on several projects.
It is my pleasure to serve [Applicant Name] and hope they are part of the fellowhip and make a difference in the local community. They continue to inspire me daily.
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 16: For Financial Aid or Scholarship
[Date]
[Committee’s Name]
[Organization Name]
Dear [Committee’s Name],
It is with much enthusiam that I recommend [Candidate Name] for a Financial Aid or Scholarship with [Organization’s Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as [My relationship].
I understand that it must be tough to select top candidate. However, I can state for sure that [Candidate Name] is the right selection given background and achievement.
I think the award will enable [Candidate Name] to continue to contribute to society, but also inspire more fellow students and alumni as well. I hope you consider it.
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 17: For Tenure Appointment
[Date]
[Committee or Individual’s Name]
[University Name]
Dear [Committee or Individual’s Name],
It is my pleasure to write a letter of recommendation for [Faculty Name]’s tenure with your institution. [I have known the individual for] years.
They have made significant research and discovery with impact. Also, [the individual] is well known on the campus with great connections and contributions.
I believe that [Faculty Name] deserves the tenureship, given that they are a role model for staff. I also endorse [Faculty Name] without any hesitation.
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 18: For Conference or Speaker
[Date]
[Conference Planner Name]
[Organization]
Dear [Conference Planner Name],
As long as I have known them, [Speaker Name] has never failed to be an engaging and informative source of insight as a professional leader. [He or She] is highly respected and valued by peers.
Moreover, [Speaker Name] is a creative, thoughtful, and professional leader who always knows how to work well with others and communicate effectively.
I am sure [he or she] will shine as the keynote speaker with knowledge, charm, and warmth. Without reservation, it is my pleasure to recommend for conference.
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 19: For Board of Directors
[Date]
[Organization Name]
[Current Board Members]
Dear [Board Members],
It is with great pleasure that I can recommend [Candidate for the Board Name] to be on the board for [Organization] for the following reasons as they are qualified.
As a long time friend and colleague, [the Candidate] has demonstrated countless times of achievements with great communication, leadership skills, and a commitment to the greater good.
Given the qualities and qualifications [Candidate Name] exhibits, it is easy to recommend to fill in the shoes on the board without any hesitation. [He or She] is the most qualify individual.
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter 20: For Political Position
[Date]
[Hiring Manager/Committee Name]
[The organization]
Dear [Hiring Manager/Committee Name],
I believe that [Candidate Name] is an ideal candidate for political positions, and here are a few compelling reasons why I would like to endorse [Candidate Name].
First, the candidate’s commitment to the community, his dedication, and his passion for the area are impressive, and his actions clearly demonstrated those qualities.
Second, [Candidate Name] has a wealth of knowledge, and his understanding of public policy and his ability to communicate vision and ideas is the best that I have known.
Based on the knowledge, characteristics, and actions, I firmly believe [Candidate Name] is the right individual for positions in politics. It is my honor to endorse [Candidate Name].
Please contact me if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Writing a strong reference letter requires effort. However, using these templates as guides, can significantly simplify the process. Remember to personalize each letter. Focus on the individual’s strengths. With a well-crafted letter, you can greatly support their success.
