How to Write a Reference Letter
Reference letters can be an extremely important resource when one applies for a job, college, renting an apartment, etc. Many of us are asked by our friends, colleagues and acquaintances to write a reference letter on their behalf, and while the task doesn’t take much time, understanding how to write a good reference letter can be extremely helpful. Here are some tips.
General Reference Letter Writing Tips
Keep the letter short and to the point. Most reference letters should be one page in length.
Your reference letter should be composed in a professional-looking manner. When vouching for someone in a reference letter, you yourself must provide the reader with a good impression. If you don’t feel comfortable providing a reference letter or don’t think your writing skills are up to par, then tell the person that you respectfully decline their request.
Reference Letter Format
Generally speaking reference letters are typed or printed on business size paper in business block form. You should sign the letter with a pen at the bottom. A reference letter should be generally no longer than one page, however, feel free to make the letter longer if you feel the need to express yourself about the person you are writing the letter about. A reference letter should be balanced. You don’t want to seem too harsh or overly sugar-coat the letter. Be honest and to the point, giving credit where credit is due.
Important Things to Include in a Reference Letter
It is important to identify your relationship with the person you are writing the reference letter for. For instance, you might want to state that you have been this person’s manager for the last 5 years. Obviously, the longer you know the person, the perception will be the better judge of character.
One of the main reasons you are writing a reference letter is to provide the reader with information on the person’s character, integrity and positive traits. While a reference letter shouldn’t be a love fest, if you feel extremely positive about a person, by all means express it in the letter. Make sure to note their accomplishments, their work ethic and other traits.
Another thing to add within a reference letter is specific examples of achievements or accomplishments. When writing a reference letter you want to avoid being overly generic or unclear. Back up your experience with specific examples.
When wrapping up your reference letter make sure you add some contact information so that the reader can contact you if he or she requires more information. Writing a reference letter can be an invaluable resource to a friend or co-worker. Make sure you put in the time and effort to convey to the reader a thorough opinion of the person for whom you are writing the letter.
Things to Do Before Sending Out the Reference Letter
First off, make sure you proofread the letter. Spelling and grammatical errors won’t show you or the person you are writing the letter for in a positive light.
When printing out the letter, make sure that the letter itself looks clean and neat. Don’t send a reference letter that has smudges or dirt on it.
Make sure the letter is clear and to the point. Remember to include contact information in the case the reader would like to ask you a question.
One last thing, generally speaking, you do not have to show the reference letter to the person who requested it from you; this is a personal decision. Some reference letter writers choose to keep it private.