How to Write Reference Letters
Sample Employer Reference Letter
Dear [Name of Employer]:
This reference letter is provided at the request of (or with the written authorization of) [name of former employee]. It is my understanding that [name of employee] has applied for the position of [job title] with your organization. The information contained in this letter is confidential and should be treated as such. It should not be disclosed to anyone within your organization who would not be involved in the hiring decision regarding this individual. Moreover, it should not be disclosed to anyone outside of your organization without the written consent of [name of employee].
[Name of employee] has been employed (or has participated in an internship, cooperative education, or work-study program) by our company since [date] and has held the following position(s): [list positions and salary in each position]. In [his/her] most recent position, [he/she] had responsibility for [explain the person’s main responsibilities in this position]. [State your estimation of his/her performance, based upon performance appraisals or other work records that would support your evaluation.] [Name of employee] interacted well with co-employees, was reliable, and showed good judgment. [Give examples.]
If you would like to discuss this further, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
[Typed Name]
[Title]
Source: A New Dilemma—Reference Letters and Checks (Legal Monograph), College Placement Council (now, National Association of Colleges and Employers), 1988.
