A strong reference letter can significantly impact a candidate’s chances of securing a job, admission to a program, or achieving other goals. This guide provides 18 diverse reference letter samples, covering various scenarios and highlighting different skills and experiences. By reviewing these examples, you can learn how to tailor your recommendations to effectively advocate for the individuals you are supporting.
Each sample below demonstrates key elements of a compelling reference letter, including a clear introduction of your relationship to the candidate, specific examples of their accomplishments and positive attributes, and a strong concluding endorsement. Remember to personalize your letter with authentic details and genuine enthusiasm to make it truly impactful. Consider the specific requirements of the opportunity when writing your letter.
Always try to get information about the job or position or program before you write your letter. This will give you the chance to tailor the letter to their needs.
It is important to be honest in you assessment of the candidate. An overblown letter can backfire. Always mention the candidate’s areas of weakness or improvement as well as their strengths.
Reference Letter Samples
Sample 1: Professional Colleague
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Candidate Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I have worked alongside [Candidate Name] at [Your Company] for the past [Number] years, during which time I have been consistently impressed by their [Key Skill 1] and [Key Skill 2].
For example, [Candidate Name] played a crucial role in [Project Name], where their [Specific Contribution] resulted in [Positive Outcome]. Their ability to [Specific Skill] is truly remarkable.
I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable asset to your team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Academic Reference – Professor
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Department]
[University]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee]
[Program Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Candidate Name] as their professor in [Course Name(s)] for [Number] semesters.
[Candidate Name] is an exceptionally bright and motivated student. Their [Specific Skill] was evident in [Specific Project/Assignment], where they demonstrated [Positive Quality] and a deep understanding of [Subject Matter].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] possesses the intellectual curiosity and dedication necessary to succeed in your rigorous program. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Manager to Employee
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position. As [Candidate Name]’s manager at [Your Company] for [Number] years, I have witnessed their growth and contributions firsthand.
[Candidate Name] consistently exceeded expectations in their role as [Candidate’s Role]. They are particularly adept at [Key Skill 1] and [Key Skill 2]. For example, they successfully [Specific Achievement] which resulted in [Quantifiable Result].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable addition to your team. They are a dedicated and talented individual with a strong work ethic.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Personal Character Reference
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number] years as a friend and neighbor.
While I have not worked with [Candidate Name] professionally, I can attest to their strong character, integrity, and work ethic. They are a reliable and responsible individual who consistently demonstrates [Positive Quality 1] and [Positive Quality 2]. For example, they [Specific Example demonstrating qualities].
I believe that [Candidate Name]’s personal qualities would make them a valuable asset to your organization. I highly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Internship Supervisor
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of supervising [Candidate Name] during their internship at [Your Organization] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
During their internship, [Candidate Name] consistently impressed me with their [Key Skill 1] and their ability to quickly learn new concepts. They proactively sought opportunities to contribute and demonstrated a strong work ethic. For example, [Candidate Name] took the initiative to [Specific Action] which resulted in [Positive Outcome].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the potential to excel in this role and would be a valuable asset to your team. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Recommendation for Graduate School
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Department]
[University]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee]
[Department Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to the [Department Name] graduate program at [University Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] as a student in my [Course Name] class and as a research assistant in my lab for the past [Number] years.
[Candidate Name] is an exceptional student with a strong aptitude for [Specific Field of Study]. They possess a keen intellect, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for learning. In my lab, they demonstrated a remarkable ability to [Specific Skill] and made significant contributions to [Research Project].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the potential to become a successful researcher and scholar. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Recommendation for Scholarship
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[School/Organization]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee]
[Scholarship Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Candidate Name] as their [Your Role – e.g., teacher, mentor, advisor] at [School/Organization] for [Number] years.
[Candidate Name] is an exceptional student with a demonstrated commitment to [Area of Study/Interest]. They possess a strong academic record, a passion for learning, and a dedication to [Community Involvement/Extracurricular Activities]. [Candidate Name]’s [Specific Achievement] is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
I believe that [Candidate Name] embodies the qualities of a [Scholarship Name] scholar and is highly deserving of this award. I wholeheartedly recommend them for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Volunteer Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] as a volunteer at your organization. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] as a volunteer at [Your Organization] for the past [Number] months.
[Candidate Name] is a dedicated and reliable volunteer who consistently goes above and beyond to help others. They are particularly skilled at [Specific Skill] and have demonstrated a strong commitment to [Organization’s Mission]. For example, they volunteered their time to [Specific Task] which significantly impacted [Positive Outcome].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable asset to your volunteer team. They are a compassionate and hardworking individual who is passionate about making a difference.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Teacher to Student for a Job
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[School Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had [Candidate Name] as a student in my [Subject Name] class at [School Name].
[Candidate Name] is a highly motivated and intelligent student with a strong work ethic. They consistently excelled in my class and demonstrated a keen interest in [Relevant Subject Matter]. They are also a collaborative and respectful individual who works well with others. For example, [Candidate Name]’s [Project/Assignment] showed exceptional [Skill/Quality].
I believe that [Candidate Name]’s academic skills and personal qualities would make them a valuable asset to your team. I highly recommend them for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Coach to Player for College
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Team Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee/Coach]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Coach],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate Name] for admission to [University Name] and for consideration to join your [Sport] team. I have been [Candidate Name]’s coach at [Team Name] for the past [Number] years.
[Candidate Name] is an exceptional athlete with a strong work ethic and a passion for [Sport]. They are a dedicated teammate and a natural leader. Their [Specific Skill/Attribute] is particularly impressive. They are a highly skilled [Position] and have consistently demonstrated [Positive Quality] on and off the field. For example, [Specific Game/Event Example].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the talent and dedication to succeed both academically and athletically at [University Name]. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Landlord to Tenant
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Landlord/Property Manager]
[Property Name]
[Property Address]
Dear [Landlord/Property Manager],
This letter is to recommend [Candidate Name] as a responsible and reliable tenant. [Candidate Name] rented my property at [Address] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
During their tenancy, [Candidate Name] consistently paid rent on time and maintained the property in excellent condition. They were respectful of their neighbors and adhered to all the terms of the lease agreement. They were also proactive in communicating any maintenance issues and were always responsive to my requests. For example, they [Specific Example demonstrating responsibility].
I would highly recommend [Candidate Name] as a tenant and have no reservations about renting to them again in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Mentor to Mentee
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization/Company]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have had the privilege of mentoring [Candidate Name] through [Program Name/Organization] for the past [Number] years.
During our mentorship, I have been consistently impressed by [Candidate Name]’s [Key Skill 1], [Key Skill 2], and their dedication to personal and professional growth. They are a quick learner, a critical thinker, and a highly motivated individual. They actively sought opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills and consistently exceeded my expectations. For example, they [Specific Project/Achievement].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable asset to your team. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Peer Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have worked with [Candidate Name] as a peer at [Company Name] on the [Team Name] team for the past [Number] years.
[Candidate Name] is a highly effective and collaborative team member. They possess strong [Key Skill 1] and [Key Skill 2] and consistently contribute to the success of our projects. They are also a proactive problem-solver and a valuable resource for their colleagues. For example, [Candidate Name] was instrumental in [Project/Achievement] by [Specific Action].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be a valuable addition to your team. I highly recommend them for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Recommendation for an Award
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Awards Committee]
[Award Name]
[Organization]
[Organization Address]
Dear Awards Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically nominate [Candidate Name] for the [Award Name] award. I have known [Candidate Name] as a [Your Relationship – e.g., colleague, student, volunteer] at [Organization] for the past [Number] years.
[Candidate Name] is a truly exceptional individual who has made significant contributions to [Area of Contribution]. Their [Specific Achievement 1] and [Specific Achievement 2] are testaments to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to [Organization’s Mission/Values]. For example, [Candidate Name]’s efforts in [Project/Initiative] resulted in [Positive Outcome].
I believe that [Candidate Name] embodies the spirit of the [Award Name] award and is highly deserving of this recognition. I wholeheartedly recommend them for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Family Friend Character Reference
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have known [Candidate Name] and their family as a close family friend for [Number] years.
While I don’t have professional experience working with [Candidate Name], I have observed their character and work ethic over the years and can confidently attest to their positive attributes. They are a responsible, trustworthy, and hardworking individual. They consistently demonstrate [Positive Quality 1] and [Positive Quality 2] in their personal life. For example, they [Specific Example demonstrating qualities – e.g., helping neighbors, volunteering].
I believe that [Candidate Name]’s personal qualities would make them a reliable and valuable employee. I highly recommend them for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 16: Recommendation for a Promotion
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Department]
[Company Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager/Review Committee]
[Department]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager/Review Committee],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate Name] for a promotion to the [New Job Title] position within the [Department] department at [Company Name]. I have worked with [Candidate Name] as their [Your Relationship – e.g., supervisor, colleague] for the past [Number] years.
During their time in the role of [Current Job Title], [Candidate Name] has consistently exceeded expectations and demonstrated the skills and qualities necessary to excel in a more senior position. They have a proven track record of success in [Area of Expertise 1] and [Area of Expertise 2]. For example, they successfully [Specific Achievement 1] resulting in [Positive Outcome 1] and [Specific Achievement 2] which led to [Positive Outcome 2].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] is ready for this promotion and would be a valuable asset to the leadership team. Their dedication, skills, and experience make them an ideal candidate for this opportunity. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 17: Recommendation for a Grant
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Grant Committee]
[Grant Name]
[Funding Organization]
[Organization Address]
Dear Grant Committee,
I am writing to strongly support the grant application of [Candidate Name] for the [Grant Name] grant. I have known [Candidate Name] as [Your Relationship – e.g., colleague, mentor, collaborator] for the past [Number] years.
[Candidate Name]’s project, [Project Name], is a highly innovative and impactful initiative that addresses a critical need in [Area of Focus]. Their proposal demonstrates a thorough understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this field. Their research on [Topic] is groundbreaking. Their [Specific Skill/Expertise] is ideally suited to carry out this important work. For example, [Candidate Name]’s preliminary findings have already [Positive Impact/Result].
I am confident that [Candidate Name] has the expertise, dedication, and resources necessary to successfully complete this project. Funding this grant would have a significant impact on [Beneficiary Group/Area of Impact]. I wholeheartedly recommend their application for your generous consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 18: Babysitter Reference
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]
[Date]
[Prospective Employer Name]
[Prospective Employer Address]
Dear [Prospective Employer Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] as a babysitter. [Candidate Name] has babysat my children, [Children’s Names] (ages [Ages]), regularly for the past [Number] years.
[Candidate Name] is a responsible, reliable, and caring individual. My children enjoy spending time with them, and I always feel comfortable leaving them in their care. [Candidate Name] is excellent at engaging my children in age-appropriate activities, preparing meals, and ensuring their safety. [Candidate Name] once skillfully handled [Specific Example – e.g., a minor injury, a difficult bedtime].
I highly recommend [Candidate Name] as a babysitter and believe they would be a valuable asset to your family.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
These 18 reference letter samples offer a solid foundation for crafting compelling recommendations. Remember to adapt these templates to reflect the specific individual, opportunity, and your personal experiences. A well-written reference letter can make a significant difference in helping someone achieve their goals.
