How to Write an
Employment Reference Letter

The employment reference letteris an important asset for any job-seeker. Job offers can be made or lost on the basis of employment references.

For help with writing a reference letter you can use these:

Sample Reference Letter for easy use

Sample Reference Letters after a layoff

As a job seeker you can create a file of letters of recommendation that can be used at the job interview or when requested. Generally these will be followed up with a verbal employment reference check by the potential employer but they are very useful as a ready-made job reference when needed.

Below is a sample employment reference letter template that can be used as a guide. Your employment reference letter should be developed to fit your own personal circumstances.

Sample Employment Reference Letter Template

Date

Greeting

Either "To Whom it May Concern" or if specifically addressed to an individual "Dear Mr Jones". It is also acceptable to not include any salutation but to go straight into the body of the letter.

Paragraph One

This outlines the reference's connection to the person they are writing about. It indicates the length of time they have known the person and why they are qualified to comment on their abilities and performance.

"As Sales Manager for XYZ Company, John Candidate has reported to me for the last three years in the position of Sales Agent"

Outline the individual's position and responsibilities.

"John was responsible for marketing and selling both new and existing company products to the local market. This included completing insurance applications, interpreting policies and explaining coverage and financing services to customers. John also provided quotes and organized payments."

Paragraph Three

Highlight the individual's qualifications, skills, abilities and accomplishments.

"John is skilled in (list skills) and has demonstrated the following abilities in this job (eg.ability to handle pressure, manage time, organize and plan, communicate, work as a team member). During the time that John reported to me I was impressed by his overall job performance and in particular by his ability to develop new accounts. His specific customer base grew by 15 percent during his time at the company. I would describe John as a hard-working and proactive salesperson who was able to come up with new approaches to achieve his sales targets."

Summing Up

Sum up why you are recommending the individual in a few lines.

"While understanding John's decision to leave our company his presence is sorely missed. He got on very well with his colleagues and was highly respected as both a person and a professional by management, his co-workers and customers. I can unreservedly recommend John for a sales position. He will be an asset to any employer."

Closure

The final paragraph should include an offer to provide further information and give your contact details.

"If you have any further questions with regard to John's suitability please do not hesitate to call me on (phone number)."

Sincerely,

Jack Jones
Sales Manager
E-mail address

Make your employment reference letter work for you. Discuss and guide your reference on the areas you need covered in the reference letter using the above example.

Find out how to write a personal or character reference at Sample Character Reference Letter

The sample Reference Check Form shows you what information a prospective employer looks for in a verbal reference.

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