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REFERENCE LETTER

A reference letter is usually written to testify to a person or (occasionally) a companys skills, character and/or achievements.
Sometimes a reference letter is known as a recommendation letter. It is a formal document, and should be typed and written in a serious and business-like style.

WHO SHOULD WRITE A REFERENCE LETTER?


If you are approached and asked to write a reference letter for a job candidate, a student or a company, consider whether you can legitimately do so. A reference letter is a formal document, and it is crucial that you do not lie or fudge the truth in it, or there could be legal repercussions. If someone wants a reference letter from you: The candidate should be someone you know reasonably well. You should know the candidate in a capacity which gives you the ability to write a meaningful reference. You should be able to provide an honest and positive reference.

REFERENCE LETTERS FORMAT :


Salutation Include a salutation (Dear Dr. Smith, Dear Mr. Jones, etc.). Paragraph 1 (OPENING) Explains your connection to the person you are recommending, including how you know them, and why you are qualified to write a reference letter to recommend employment or graduate school. Paragraph 2 (FOCUS) Contains specific information on the person you are writing about, including why they are qualified, what they can contribute, and why you are providing a reference letter. Paragraph 3 (FOCUS) Include information on how the person's skills match the position they are applying for. Ask for a copy of the job posting and a copy of the person's resume so you can target your reference letter accordingly. Summary (ACTION) Contains a brief summary of why are you recommending the person. State that you "highly recommend" the person or you "recommend without reservation" or something similar. Conclusion (CLOSING) Contains an offer to provide more information. Include a phone number within the paragraph , include the phone number and email address in the return address section of your letter, or in your signature .

To Whom it May Concern: OPENING

SAMPLE:

I highly recommend Jane Doe as a candidate for employment. Jane was employed by Company Name as an Administrative Assistant from 2002 2005. Jane was responsible for office support including word processing, scheduling appointments and creating brochures, newsletters, and other office literature. FOCUS Jane has excellent communication skills. In addition, she is extremely organized, reliable and computer literate. Jane can work independently and is able to follow through to ensure that the job gets done. She is flexible and willing to work on any project that is assigned to her. Jane was quick to volunteer to assist in other areas of company operations, as well.

ACTION
Jane would be a tremendous asset for your company and has my highest recommendation. CLOSING If you have any further questions with regard to her background or qualifications, please do not hesitate to call me. Sincerely, John Smith Company Address

Phone

THINGS TO AVOID
Mentioning any weaknesses the candidate has.

Saying anything that could be construed as libel.


Writing in an informal manner: keep the letter business-like. Jokes, slang and casual language are not appropriate and may harm the candidates chances. Including personal information not relevant to the application. Mentioning the candidates race, political stance, religion, nationality, marital status, age or health is usually inappropriate. Spelling mistakes, sloppy writing or typos: this letter is hugely important to the candidate, and you should take care to make it look professional.

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