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How to Mention a Referral in Your Cover Letter

What is a Referral Cover Letter?

The benefits of being referred, who to ask for a referral, how to mention a referral, tips for writing a referral cover letter, referral cover letter sample.

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If you know someone at a company or someone with a strong connection to a company, it can be helpful to mention them in your cover letter when you apply for a job. Having a referral can help you stand out from the crowd when you're job searching, and including the referral in your cover letter can help get your application noticed by the hiring manager.

Mentioning that you're referred by someone is like getting an employment reference in advance. Hiring managers and recruiters will likely take a closer look at candidates with whom they share a mutual contact, and for good reason: studies have shown that hiring through employee referrals results in faster, cheaper, more effective hiring than relying on job sites.

Applicants with a referral are four times more likely to be offered a job than candidates without one. Referral hires also tend to get up to speed more quickly, fit in better, and stay with the company longer.

Mentioning your referral and shared connection in your cover letter can make the difference in helping your application get noticed by prospective employers.

It also gives the hiring manager some context for your work background and provides additional information about you.

Here's how to write a referral cover letter, the best way to mention the contact who is referring you, what to include, and a sample letter with a template to download.

A referral cover letter mentions a mutual connection when applying for a job. You might be referred by a colleague, a friend, an employee at the company you’re interested in, a client or vendor, or even your college career office.

Referred candidates are a leading source of new hires, and many employers actively seek referrals when hiring for open positions. Even if a company doesn't have a formal employee referral program , referrals are typically welcomed as a way to expedite the hiring process and secure strong candidates for available jobs.

Having a referral name to mention in your cover letter helps the hiring manager understand the shared connection you have with them or their employer. A referral also helps relate your experience to the open position and, depending on how you know the referring party, can provide some insight into how well you might fit in at the company.

Your cover letter also provides an opportunity to briefly highlight your education, skills, and qualifications for the job. In addition to mentioning your referral, you'll have the chance to add a few specific examples of why you are the best candidate for the position and share other details not included on your resume.

There are many different ways to be referred for a job. A connection at a company may inquire into whether you have an interest in exploring new opportunities. You may find that you're connected with an employee on LinkedIn. Before you apply for a job, take a look to see who you know at the organization.

The referral doesn't have to be a business connection. You can ask anyone you know at the company or who has a contact at the company if they would recommend you for a job.

Be sure to check with the individual in advance and ask if they are willing to give you a referral . Even if you’re certain they’d vouch for you, giving a potential referral the heads-up ensures that they’ll be ready and able to offer the best possible recommendation, given the job requirements.

You can send a letter or email asking for a referral , which gives the person the time and opportunity to think through what they can do for you, and how to proceed. Asking in writing also gives your connection an out if they aren't comfortable referring you.

• Mention who is referring you. When you use a referral in your cover letter, mention them in the first paragraph. Include the individual by name and describe your connection with them as well.
• Explain how you know the person. Give a brief account of how you know the person, and explain how they came to be familiar with your work qualifications and skills.
• Describe why they are recommending you. If the person recommended that you apply for this particular position, take the opportunity to mention why they are endorsing you. What specific qualities of yours made them think that you would be a good fit for the company and for the job? What do you have to offer the company?

Here's an example of an introductory paragraph mentioning that the candidate has been referred by a colleague:

My colleague Amy Smith recommended that I contact you directly about the sales representative position at ABC, Inc. Amy and I have worked closely in the industry for many years, and she thought the company would be a good fit for my style and experience in sales. She pointed out that as a successful, award-winning salesperson, I would be an excellent addition to the team at ABC, Inc.

Name-dropping does not come easily to some people, especially if you're already wrestling with how to write about your accomplishments and sell yourself to a hiring manager. Even though it might be a challenge, being referred for a job can give you a boost over the competition. At the least, it should help you get considered for an interview. At best, it could give you a foot in the door that might lead to a job offer.

Review examples. If you're not sure what to write, it helps to look at examples of cover letters , although you'll want to tailor your letter to fit your specific personal and professional circumstances.

Mention the referral upfront. Remember to include a brief mention of your referral and recommendation right away in your cover letter. This strategy puts the referral at the front of the reader's mind, giving them context for the information that follows.

Make the best first impression. Expand on your strengths and why you're the best candidate for the job. Your cover letter offers a chance to make a strong first impression, since it's likely the first thing a hiring manager sees, possibly even before your resume.

Share your accomplishments. Mention brief examples of your successes in the workplace to prove that you are the most qualified person for the job.

Carefully proofread your letter. As with all business correspondence, make sure that you proofread your cover letter for correct spelling and grammar, and check that the information matches across all the documents you submit. 

This is an example of a cover letter that mentions a referral. Download the referral cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

Referral Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)

Betty Forbes 999 Main Street Anytown, MA 02222 555-123-4567 bforbes1223@email.com

February 28, 2022

George Smith Marketing Director Acme Communications 1234 Fragrant Way Citytown, MA 02224

Dear Mr. Smith,

It was with great interest that I learned of the opening in your department for a marketing associate. Your marketing manager, Anna Black, was my supervisor at Catz Marketing before taking her current position with Acme Communications. As she can attest, I bring a unique perspective, and can integrate the many facets of a media campaign.

With Anna at Catz Marketing, I worked with a local company to build their business and promote their grand opening. We continued to work with them for the first few years, developing a total media plan and implementing it. Their continued success and recommendations brought other businesses to seek our services as well.

My experience with Catz Marketing has prepared me to take on the challenges of working in a national company such as Acme Communications, and I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how I can be an asset to your team.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Betty Forbes

More Cover Letter Examples 

Need more inspiration for writing your own cover letters? Review these  cover letter samples and downloadable templates  for many different types of jobs to get started.

Key Takeaways

• A cover letter with a referral can help get your application considered.
• It's important to ask permission to mention them from the person you're asking to refer you.
• Include the referral in the first paragraph of your cover letter.
• Also include specifics on why you're a leading contender for the job.

LinkedIn. " Here is Why Employee Referrals are the Best Way to Hire ."

Zippia. "Employee Referral Statistics [2022].  Facts About Employee Referrals in the US ."

Jobvite. " 4 Reasons to Invest in Employee Referrals ."

CareerOneStop. " Make Your Next Cover Letter a Great One ."

SHRM. " Employee Referrals Remain Top Source for Hires ."

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How To Mention A Referral In Your Cover Letter (With Examples)

• How To Sign A Cover Letter
• Salary Requirements In Cover Letter
• Referral In Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Body
• Use Dear Sir Or Madam?
• Use Mrs. Or Ms.?

Find a Job You Really Want In

Having a referral by someone who is already employed at the company you’re applying to can be an excellent way to get your foot in the door. Mentioning a referral in your cover letter is one of the ways to do this.

To help you write the best referral in your cover letter, we’ll go over how to include a reference in a cover letter, provide some referral cover letter examples, and some benefits to being referred.

Key Takeaways:

Make sure you have a reliable referral that is in good standing with a company, and that they know they are being included before putting down a referral.

Candidates that are referred also tend to feel more of an obligation to the company, their reference, and their team, allowing them to get up to speed more quickly and adapt to the new culture and workplace more efficiently.

Writing a cover letter with referral will allow you to highlight the key skills you can bring to the position and provide specific examples of why you are the best fit for this job.

What is a referral cover letter?

How to mention a referral in your cover letter, referral cover letter examples, who to ask for a referral, the benefits of being referred, referral in your cover letter faq, final thoughts, expert opinion.

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A referral cover letter is an application document for a potential job opportunity that mentions a mutual contact you may share with the hiring manager or someone in the company. This connection can be an old colleague, a friend, or a networking acquaintance who likely works at the company you are applying to.

When done effectively, you can drop their name in your cover letter to emphasize how your skills and abilities align with the job and how you’ve worked with your referral in the past. You can mention specific projects and details that you know this person may be able to vouch for.

Your cover letter is the first thing your employer or hiring manager is likely to see, so use it as your moment to shine. This document will allow you to provide additional details about your education, qualifications, skills, and work ethic. You can point to specific projects and challenges you may have experienced and discuss how you overcame them and how those abilities translate to the job you are applying for.

When mentioning a referral in your cover letter, make sure your referral knows you are including them before, and then mention their name in the letter and explain why they are recommending you. Here is a more detailed list of how to add reference in cover letter:

Make sure your referral knows. Mentioning a referral in your cover letter is appropriate when you have directly contacted the person you’re planning to mention as your referral. This could be someone you contacted or someone that contacted you. It can even be someone who is not your contact on LinkedIn or other networks, but you’ve reached out to them, and they’ve agreed to be a referral.

However, in instances where you have not asked for explicit permission from the person you’re planning to use as your referral or this person is not in good standing with their employer, you should stay clear of mentioning them in your cover letter .

Mention who is referring you. The purpose of the cover letter is to impress from the start . Mention your referral within the first paragraph of your note. To do this effectively, include:

The person’s name

How you know them

How they are familiar with your skills and qualifications

Explain why they are recommending you. You can give the hiring manager a quick summary of why they are recommending you and how your past experience gives you the skills required to do the job well.

Keep it short. Try to keep your referral to one single paragraph in your cover letter. The rest of your letter should expand more on you and your skills, including how the things you have learned in previous work environments are transferable to your new role .

Send a copy of your cover letter to your referral. The last thing you should do is send a copy of your cover letter to your referral so they can read it over. Doing this is a nice gesture and allows them to know what you are saying about them. Be sure to also thank them for their help.

We’ve included some examples of how it may look to include a referral in your cover letter.

Cover letter with referral example

Dear Angela Morris, I am writing to inquire about the Marketing Director position, which came highly recommended to me by Bill Jeffries, Vice President of Marketing at Apple, Inc. Bill and I worked closely together for several years at Nabisco, where we tackled a variety of event coordination and digital lead generation efforts. Bill believes my marketing experience and skill for developing memorable events can have a profound impact on the marketing team and organization as a whole.

Dear Larry Smith, Bill Jeffries suggested I reach out to you regarding the Marketing Director position at Apple, Inc. I met Bill while coordinating a conference at the end of last year. We worked closely together with vendors, contracts, and design. He was able to see my ability to bring booths to life, develop innovative ideas to capture new leads, and drive to continually improve marketing programs, which is why he’s referred me to this role on your team.

Dear John Riley, Tom Johnson suggested I contact you regarding the Customer Representative Position at XYZ Company. I worked with Tom last year when we worked together at ABC Corp. Working closely together allowed him to see my ability to connect with others and drive sales. This is why he referred me to this role and your team.

Getting a referral when you don’t know someone well can sometimes be tricky. But there are a variety of ways to be referred for a job . A connection at the company you’re applying for might inquire whether you’re interested in exploring new job opportunities. You may have an old connection on LinkedIn that you forgot about.

LinkedIn is a great tool to explore whether you know anyone at the company you are applying to. You can easily see if you know an existing connection or if one of your contacts knows someone at the company currently.

Once you choose someone to provide a referral , be sure to reach out to them before applying for the job. Ask if they are willing to give you a referral for the job. Even if you assume this person will build your credibility with the hiring manager, it’s important to check with them first. You don’t want to bombard someone at the last minute, and you certainly don’t want to tell the hiring manager that a person has vouched for you when they actually haven’t.

To do this, you can send them an email or a letter asking them for a referral. Similar to a reference letter , this will give the person you are asking a chance to look over the requirements and think about how they can best help you. This also gives them an opportunity to opt out of a referral in case they don’t feel comfortable.

Being a candidate who is referred by someone respected in the company is a tremendous benefit for you as a job seeker such as an expedited hiring process or the ability to highlight key skills. Here are some more benefits of being referred.

It can quicken the hiring process. Even if a company doesn’t have a formal employee referral program , the human resources (HR) department typically welcomes referrals. They help to expedite the hiring process and ensure that strong candidates fill open spots on teams.

Allows the interviewer to see you in a different light. When you are referred for a job, it might feel like a lot to live up to. However, if you view it as a step up during your interview process , you will be better suited for your interview. Ultimately, having a candidate referred gives the hiring manager an authentic glimpse into the kind of employee you will be and will help them relate your experience to the position.

A better understanding of the company culture. The person who referred you will likely be asked to provide insights into how you will fit into their company culture . However, there is no need to worry because the person who referred you would not have vouched for you if they didn’t think you were the right fit for this job.

Being able to highlight key skills. Putting this referral in your cover letter will allow you to highlight the key skills you can bring to the position and provide specific examples of why you are the best fit for this job. Cover letters give you another area to share additional details that your resume may not include.

Should you mention a referral in a cover letter?

Yes, you should mention a referral in your cover letter. Mentioning a referral in a cover letter helps to emphasize how your skills and abilities align with the job and how you’ve worked with your referral in the past. The best way to do this is to mention specific projects and details how you know the person and how they can vouch for you.

Who should be a referral for a job?

A referral should be someone you know such as an old colleague, former classmate, or someone from your network who works at the company you are applying for. The person who is referring you should be a current employee and someone you trust. They should be able to help highlight your strengths and abilities.

How do you mention a referral in your cover letter?

To mention a referral in your cover letter be sure to mention by name the person who referred you and your relationship to the. This should be a person who is a current employee who can highlight your skills and abilities. Your referral in your cover letter should be kept short and to the point.

If you come into a company with the right type of referral and a person who can actively vouch for your work ethic, you’ll already place yourself ahead of the competition. Even if you have a vast network and land your dream job, continue to network . Ensure that you always depart work environments on good terms with colleagues and managers. You never know who you will cross paths with later in your career journey: the broader your network, the better chance you will have to name-drop in the future.

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How To Mention A Referral In Your Cover Letter

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“My colleague XXX recommended that I contact you directly about this position ” is an easy way to name drop your referral in the cover letter. To strengthen the statement, add something about the relationship of the referral to the company.

University of South Florida – Cover Letter Do’s & Don’ts

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How To Include a Referral in Your Cover Letter?

Including a referral in your cover letter can help get your resume noticed by the hiring manager. It shows that you have a personal connection to someone who can vouch for your skills and abilities. A referral from a colleague or past employer can be a great way to get your foot in the door with a new company.

It’s been shown that referral hires are more likely to stick around at their new job, have higher performance ratings, and are often paid higher salaries than non-referral hires.

The benefits of including a referral in your job application are well worth the effort it takes to obtain one. In fact, according to a report from Jobvite, 59% of job seekers say referrals are their preferred way to find jobs online.

But how do you know whom to ask for a referral? And how do you include one in your cover letter? This guide will walk you through how to ask for and include a referral so you can land that interview.

What is a Referral Cover Letter?

A referral cover letter is a letter that you send to a potential employer with your resume. It is a recommendation from someone within the company that can act as a personal endorsement for you and your job application. The letter includes the name of someone who has referred you to the company. This can be a friend, family member, or professional contact. The referral cover letter is a way to get your foot in the door and stand out from the competition.

Why Should You Use A Referral in your Cover letter?

A referral gives you credibility, as it’s basically an insider saying that you are qualified for the position and would be a good fit. People trust recommendations from people they know, so this person essentially vouching for you makes a huge difference.

According to a recent study from the University of Minnesota, including a referral in your cover letter can dramatically increase your chances of getting an interview . The survey found that applicants who included referrals within their letters were interviewed at twice the rate of those who didn’t include referrals.

There are a few other reasons why you might want to include a referral in your cover letter.

• It can help you stand out from the crowd. When you have a personal connection to someone who can vouch for your skills, it shows that you’re serious about the job and that you’re willing to go the extra mile.
• It also makes it easier for the hiring manager to trust you since they can see that you have the endorsement of someone they know.
• If a referral is a “known name” in the industry, you’ll stand out from the crowd.
•  It can help you pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) screening software.
• Including a referral in your cover letter can also help you build relationships with the people you’re applying to work with. When you make a good impression on your referral, they might be more likely to refer you to other opportunities in the future.

Is name dropping in a cover letter OK?

Name-dropping does not come easily to everyone, but a referral cover letter is one place where it can work in your favor. Referrals are powerful because they involve an introduction from a known and respected individual. When you can name-drop a referral, it gives the hiring manager an additional reason to trust your qualifications and consider you for the job.

It’s important to be subtle when you’re name-dropping in your cover letter. You don’t want to come across as arrogant or entitled. Instead, focus on how your referral can vouch for your skills and abilities.

How to Ask for a Referral?

You have spent a lot of time perfecting your resume and tweaking your cover letter to match the job description. You have done everything you can think of to make sure that when recruiters read your documents they will be impressed by what they see, but there is one more thing that you need to consider: who are you going to ask for a referral?

1) Choose Professional Contacts over Personal:

When you can, choose someone who is a professional contact, not a personal one. You want to make sure that whoever you ask to be your referral has experience working with you or working with your work, so they can speak about the kind of contributions you make and the results those contributions produce.

2) Check with your Contact before dropping their name in a Cover letter:

Whoever it is, definitely check in with them before moving forward. At the very least, give them a heads up so they aren’t caught off guard if indeed that company does call them for any reason. Ideally, you will ask them if they would be comfortable giving you a referral and then send them a copy of your resume and cover letter so they can be prepared for what to expect if/when called upon by the company.

3) Search through Networking Platforms:

If you don’t have any connections in the company for the job you are applying for then you can use a mutual contact. A mutual contact is someone that you know and the hiring manager knows. You can do this by searching for them on LinkedIn, search through Facebook, Company Website other Professional Forums the contact may be present.

4) Reach out to them via Email:

The best way to ask for a referral is by email . You should explain why you are contacting them and why you want them to refer you, if possible. For example: “I worked on your team last year and our group won an award.” It’s also important to thank them for their time.

5) Apply via an employee referral program?

If you’re applying to a large company, they may have an employee referral program. This is a program where employees can refer candidates for open positions within the company. If you’re lucky enough to know someone who works for the company, be sure to ask them if they can refer you for a position as it is beneficial for both of you.

How To Include A Referral In Your Cover Letter?

When you’re including a referral in your cover letter, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

1) Include the Referral Information in Your Opening Paragraph

One way to include a referral in your cover letter is to use it as part of your opening paragraph.

2) Explain How they know you

The person who referred you will likely have given the hiring manager some context about how they know you. But if they haven’t, or if your connection is weak (you met them once at an event), it’s important to explain how you know each other.

3) Why are they providing this Recommendation

Include a few sentences about why they are qualified to speak about you. For example, if a former manager is recommending you for a position, mention this fact, as well as what your relationship has been like and how long they have known you.

Here’s an example of an introductory paragraph with a referral :

“I am interested in the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. I was referred to the position by my friend, Sarah, who knows someone at XYZ Company. Sarah has told me great things about the company and she thinks I would be a perfect fit for the position. I have attached my resume and the job listing to this email. I would appreciate if you could keep me in mind for the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Asking for a referral can help you get your resume noticed and land the job you want. Just be sure to follow these tips and examples so that you can do it correctly.

Examples of adding a referral to your cover letter:

Referral cover letters are structured similarly to application cover letters, but they usually include an additional paragraph that explains how you were referred to the position by someone in your network. Below, you’ll find examples of referral cover letters that indicates who the applicant was referred by, along with tips for writing a referral cover letter sample.

**Adding a referral in the body of your cover letter:**

“Dear Ms. [last name], [Referral source] recommended I reach out to you about the position of [job title]. I have a great deal of experience [briefly describe your relevant experience] and would love to work with you and your team. I am available for an interview at any time that is convenient for you, and I can be reached by phone at [your phone number], or by email at [your email address].”

In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you should mention a mutual connection or referral who suggested that you reach out. Mentioning this person (or people) upfront will give you an instant connection with the hiring manager.

“I’m reaching out because [Name of Mutual Acquaintance] suggested I connect with you. She knew me from my work with [Company Name or Project], and she mentioned that you’re looking for someone to fill your opening for a [Name of Position].- “I am interested in the position of Social Media Manager at GHI company. I was referred to this position by my friend, Tina, who is the Social Media Manager at GHI company.”

Mention the referral in your first paragraph. Use words like “encouraged,” “recommended” or “referred.”

“I was encouraged by [referrer’s name] to apply for the [position name] role at [company name].”

“I was referred by [referrer’s name] to apply for the [position name] role at [company name]. They told me that you’re looking for a [skill-set/role-specific knowledge].”

“Dear [Name],

I am writing to apply for the position of [position] at [company]. I was referred to the role by my friend and former colleague, [Name], who is currently working in the [department] at [Company]. I understand you are currently seeking candidates to fill this position.

I have been following company developments for several years, and I believe that my experience as a [job title] would be beneficial to your team.”

Referral Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)

Dear [Name],

I am reaching out to you in regard to the [job title] position with [Company name]. I believe my experience in [industry] and role as a [role title] is a good match for this position.

[Name of contact, mutual friend, or colleague] recommended that I contact you and submit my resume because they know I am interested in finding a new opportunity with an outstanding company such as yours. I have been working in [industry] for the last [x years/months], and have developed many of the skills necessary for the role of [job title].

I look forward to hearing from you to discuss how my experience fits your needs. Please feel free to reach me at [phone number] or via email at [email address]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your name]

Referral Cover Letter Email

Dear [Recruiter Name]

I’m writing to apply for the [position name] position advertised on LinkedIn. I met [name] at an event last month, and they suggested I reach out to you directly. We discussed my background in [field], and how it would make me a great fit for this role.

If you have any questions about my experience or candidacy, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I’ll follow up with you next week to see if you need any additional information from me, or if we can arrange a time for us to talk.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Email Subject Line for sending a Referral Cover Letter :

• Referral from [Kevin Rogers – VP Marketing] for Marketing Manager Position.
• [Kevin Rogers – VP Marketing] referred me to you for the [Marketing Manager] position.

Tips for Writing a Referral Cover Letter

• Including a referral at the top of your cover letter can help you get noticed by hiring managers and make it more likely that you’ll be granted an interview.
• Make sure to mention your referral’s name and how you know them, such as “I worked with [name] at [company].”
• Include a few sentences about why your referral thinks you’d be a good fit for the role and ask if they’d be willing to provide a reference if needed.
• Don’t forget to say “thank you” to your reader and let them know how they can reach out to learn more about you!.

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Customizable Opening Paragraphs for Cover Letters: Referral Letters that Spring from Networking

When it comes to cover letters, have you got writer’s block? Do you feel that if you could just start the letter, you’d be OK? Help is here. We have a collection of customizable opening paragraphs for cover letters. Remember Mad Libs, the fill-in-the-blank game that resulted in wacky stories? This collection is a little like Mad Libs, except that the intended result is not wacky, but serious, effective openers for cover letters.

Following each customizable opening paragraph, you’ll find a sample paragraph with the blanks filled in. This set of 19 customizable opening paragraphs is for “referral letters,” which are the product of networking, the most effective method of job-hunting.

In its simplest form, networking involves requesting (and giving in return) advice, support, job leads, and referrals with the goal of finding a new job. A referral letter prominently displays the name of a person your addressee knows.

Referral letters can come about from a variety of (networking) sources. You might talk with someone at a meeting of a trade association in your field who will tell you of an opening she knows of.

An acquaintance at a party might tell you of someone he knows whose company could use an employee with your experience. A friend might tell you about a job she saw through her company’s internal job posting.

The value of the referral letter is in its name-dropping. If you can grab the potential employer’s attention by mentioning someone he or she knows and respects in the first line of the letter, you will have gained a terrific advantage over the competition.

A special kind of referral letter is the “self-referral” based not on a mutual acquaintance who knows the letter’s recipient, but based on a meeting or conversation you have had with the recipient.

Customizable Opening Paragraphs

Customizable opening paragraph #1:.

[ name of person from whom you learned of this job ] suggested I contact you about the [ name of position ] position you currently have open. My fresh and innovative [ type of skills ] skills, along with total [ type of proficiency ] proficiency make me the [ name of position ] you’ve been looking for.

Check out this sample customized paragraph based on above.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #2:

[ name of person from whom you learned of this job ] and I have been talking about how my skills might fit at [ name of employer ]. He said he’d discussed [ content of discussion between recipient and referral person ], so I wanted to introduce myself, and tell you a little of what I’ve done since working with [ name of person from whom you learned of this job ] at [ name of employer ].

Check out our sample customized paragraph based on above.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #3:

[ name of person from whom you learned of this job ] [ reminder of how the recipient knows the referral person ] suggested I contact you about the [ name of position ] position you currently have open. My solid experience in [ field ] would enable me to make a significant contribution to your organization in a [ name of position ] capacity. My background in several [ types of positions ] positions further bolsters my qualifications in that I am extremely adept at providing business services of all kinds and functioning as a productive team member.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #4:

[ Name of person from whom you learned of this job ] tells me that you are looking for a [ characteristic ] employee for the job of [ name of position ]. I offer the background and the personality to excel in this position.

Check out our sample customized paragraph based on above:

Customizable Opening Paragraph #5:

Our mutual acquaintance [ name of person from whom you learned of this job ], [ circumstances under which you know referral person ], suggested I contact you to describe the contribution I might make in [ job function ] at your organization.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #6:

I’m writing to follow up on a phone conversation you had with [ title and name of referral person ] about the [ name of position ] position you expect to have available in [ timeframe ]. I’ve developed a strong foundation in [ field ], I am highly [ characteristic ], and I stand poised to bring my skills to your fine organization.

Self-Referral Cover Letter Openers

Customizable opening paragraph #7:.

I very much enjoyed talking with you [ timeframe ] about your need to fill your firm’s [ name of position ] position. My [ number of years ] years of experience as [ name of position ] at a [ description of former employer ] and as a(n) [ name of position ] qualify me well for this position.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #8:

You’ll find that my proven track record in [ field ] and [ field ] makes me the ideal candidate for the [ name of position ] position we discussed in [ where you talked with recipient ].

Customizable Opening Paragraph #9:

I very much enjoyed talking with you [ timeframe ] and appreciate your time. [ Sentence that reflects recipient’s critique of your resume ]. My solid experience in [ job function ] and [ job function ] would enable me to make a significant contribution to the [ name of position ] position we discussed. My [ education or other credential ] further bolsters my qualifications.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #10:

When I spoke with you at [ occasion ], I thought about what an interesting person you would be to work for. I was very excited when [ name of person from whom you learned of this job ] suggested that I apply for the position you have available in the [ name of department ] department. It would be wonderful to work for your prestigious company, and I am ready to make outstanding contributions to your workforce.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #11:

I enjoyed meeting you in [ timeframe ] when [ circumstances under which you met recipient ]. I am now approaching graduation and actively seeking a job such as the [ type of position ] position you are advertising.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #12:

I’m so glad I met you at the [ name, location ] career fair [ timeframe ]. Because I know that you plan to fill the [ name of position ] position quickly, I am e-mailing my resume immediately.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #13:

After speaking with you [ describe method ] [ timeframe ], I am clearly interested in the opportunity as a(n) [ name of position ].

Customizable Opening Paragraph #14:

When we met [ timeframe ] ago [ circumstances under which you met recipient ], I was amazed how well you orchestrated the event. Now, after [ describe experience ], I am interested in applying for a position with your firm.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #15:

Thank you for spending time on the phone with me [ timeframe ]. I am definitely enthusiastic about your upcoming opening in [ name of position ]. I am enclosing my resume and [ other relevant materials ].Sample customized paragraph based on above:

Customizable Opening Paragraph #16:

It was wonderful meeting you at [ event ]. I would never have guessed that we have so much in common, nor would I have imagined that a conversation with you would spark a career change for me.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #17:

Back in [ timeframe ], I wrote to you about the possibility of employment with your dynamic [ type of employer ]. [ Description of recipient’s response ]. I have just learned [ vacancy you’ve learned of ]. I’m writing to ask you to consider interviewing me as her possible replacement.

Customizable Opening Paragraph #18:

I am following up our telephone conversation of [ date ] to reinforce to you how well my background aligns with the [ name of position ].

Customizable Opening Paragraph #19:

It was truly delightful to meet you at [ circumstance under which you met recipient ] on [ timeframe ]. [ Sentence that flatters recipient ]. I’d like to [ execute an action relevant to the targeted position ]. You mentioned at the [ circumstance under which you met recipient ] that the time has come to hire a [ name of position ]. I’m convinced I could make a significant contribution in that position.

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About the Author

Katharine Hansen • Career Advice Expert

Katharine Hansen was the creative director and associate publisher of Quintessential Careers; she also wrote content for Quintessential Careers. She earned her Ph.D. in organizational behavior from Union Institute & University in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is the author of Dynamic Cover Letters for New Graduates and A Foot in the Door: Networking Your Way into the Hidden Job Market (both published by Ten Speed Press). She is also the author of Top Notch Executive Resumes (Career Press), and with Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D., Dynamic Cover Letters, Write Your Way to a Higher GPA (Ten Speed), and The Complete Idiot's Guide to Study Skills (Alpha).

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How to Write a Reference Letter (Template & Examples)

By Ammar Ahmed

Published: January 29, 2024

A reference letter serves as a formal endorsement of an individual’s skills, character, and achievements, typically penned by a former employer, colleague, or academic mentor. 

This guide aims to empower professionals with the tools and knowledge to craft effective reference letters, combining best practices with practical templates to streamline this essential task.

Types of Reference Letters

Understanding the different types of reference letters is crucial for professionals, as each type caters to specific contexts and highlights various aspects of an individual’s profile. Below, we explore three key types: Professional, Academic, and Character Reference Letters.

Professional Reference Letters

Professional reference letters are written by a previous employer, supervisor, or professional colleague. They focus on the applicant’s work experience, skills, and professional achievements. These letters are often required during job applications or for career advancement opportunities. 

These letters should detail the individual’s role, responsibilities, key accomplishments, and work ethic. It’s essential to mention specific instances where the individual demonstrated their skills and contributed to the organization’s success.

Related Article: Who to Use for Professional References 

Academic Reference Letters

Academic reference letters are typically requested for educational pursuits, such as college admissions, scholarships, or academic awards. Written by teachers, professors, or academic advisors, these letters highlight the individual’s academic achievements, intellectual capabilities, and potential for future success in their field of study. 

They should reflect on the individual’s academic performance, participation in class, and any notable projects or research work. This type of letter often emphasizes the individual’s dedication, curiosity, and ability to overcome academic challenges.

Character Reference Letters

Character reference letters focus primarily on the personal attributes of an individual. They are usually written by someone who knows the person well but is not a family member, such as a mentor, family friend, or community leader. 

These letters are particularly important when assessing an individual’s suitability for a role that requires a high degree of trust and integrity. They should provide insights into the individual’s character, values, and behaviors, illustrating how these traits have been beneficial in various situations.

Related Article : How Many References Should You Have? 

Letter of Recommendation Examples

In crafting a letter of recommendation, it’s essential to tailor the content to the specific needs and strengths of the individual. Whether it’s for a professional role, character assessment, or a remote work position, each letter should effectively highlight the candidate’s unique qualities and contributions. 

These examples are designed to provide a clear understanding of how to articulate a candidate’s abilities and achievements in a manner that resonates with the recipient, ensuring the letter is both compelling and relevant to the candidate’s desired opportunity.

Professional Employment Reference Letter

Taylor Robinson Hiring Committee Chair Innovatech Solutions 321 Future St. Techville, TV 32167 April 5, 2024

Dear Mr./Ms. Robinson,

It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Laura Smith for the position of Project Manager at Innovatech Solutions. As the Senior Director of Project Management at TechGenius, I had the privilege of observing Laura’s professional growth and remarkable contributions over her four-year tenure as an Assistant Project Manager.

Laura’s standout achievement was her leadership in the “GreenTech Initiative” project in 2020. Under her guidance, the project not only met but exceeded its objectives, achieving a 30% increase in energy efficiency for our client’s products. Her strategic planning, combined with her ability to seamlessly integrate new technology into existing systems, was critical to the project’s success. Laura’s innovative approach and meticulous attention to detail were instrumental in securing a 15% grant for future sustainability projects for TechGenius.

Beyond her technical skills, Laura’s interpersonal abilities truly set her apart. Her team leadership and conflict resolution skills were pivotal during challenging project phases, ensuring team cohesion and maintaining client satisfaction. Her mentorship of junior staff members has left a lasting positive impact on our department.

I am confident that Laura will bring the same level of exceptional performance, dedication, and innovation to the Project Manager role at Innovatech Solutions. Her blend of strategic foresight, technical expertise, and leadership ability makes her an excellent fit for your team. I strongly recommend her for this position and believe she will be a valuable asset to your organization.

Please feel free to contact me for any further information or clarification.

John Doe Senior Director of Project Management, TechGenius [email protected] +1 555 123 4567

Character Reference Letter for a Coworker

Jane Doe Human Resources Manager Green Earth Initiatives 123 Business Rd. Business City, BC 12345 January 1, 2024

Dear Ms. Doe,

I am writing to express my wholehearted support for Emily Johnson’s application for the Community Outreach Coordinator position at Green Earth Initiatives. As Emily’s coworker at Design & Innovate Corp for over five years, I have had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional character and dedication to community service.

Emily has always been more than just a proficient graphic designer ; she is a driving force for positive change within our community. One of her most notable contributions was her volunteer work with the local “Food for All” campaign, where she not only designed impactful promotional materials but also played a crucial role in organizing community food drives. Her efforts helped raise awareness and significant donations for the cause, demonstrating her compassion and commitment to helping those in need.

What truly sets Emily apart is her genuine empathy and integrity. She often takes the initiative to support new team members and creates an inclusive and welcoming work environment. Her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, combined with her strong ethical values, makes her an outstanding role model and team player.

Emily’s passion for community engagement, along with her innate ability to inspire and mobilize people toward a common goal, makes her an ideal candidate for the Community Outreach Coordinator role. I am confident that her exceptional interpersonal skills and dedication to social causes will enable her to excel in this position and make a meaningful impact at Green Earth Initiatives.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information or insights regarding Emily’s character and abilities.

Warm regards,

David Thompson Senior Graphic Designer, Design & Innovate Corp [email protected] +1 555 678 9101

Remote Work Employment Reference Letter

Alex Martinez Hiring Manager VirtualTech Inc 456 Justice Ave. Law City, LC 45678 March 10, 2024

Dear Attorney Martinez,

I am delighted to recommend Mark Benson for the position of Lead Software Engineer at VirtualTech Inc. As the CTO of NetSolutions, where Mark has been working remotely for the past three years, I have had ample opportunity to observe his exceptional technical abilities and adaptability to the remote working model.

During his tenure with us, Mark was instrumental in developing our flagship product, CloudSync, a complex cloud storage solution. His technical expertise, particularly in cloud computing and cybersecurity, was vital in overcoming the project’s significant challenges. Despite the remote setting, Mark’s consistent communication and collaboration were standout qualities. He regularly led virtual team meetings and coding sessions, ensuring that all team members, regardless of their location, were aligned and engaged.

What impresses me most about Mark is his self-motivation and time management skills, crucial in a remote work environment. He has an innate ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines without compromising on the quality of work. His initiative to conduct weekly virtual training sessions for the team not only enhanced our collective skill set but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork among remote employees.

Mark’s blend of technical acumen, excellent communication, and leadership skills, along with his proven ability to thrive in a remote work environment, makes him an ideal candidate for VirtualTech Inc. I am confident that he will be a valuable asset to your team and contribute significantly to your company’s success in the digital realm.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like further information or specific examples of Mark’s work and achievements.

Susan Lee Chief Technology Officer , NetSolutions [email protected] +1 555 234 5678

What to Include in a Reference Letter

When composing a reference letter, it’s essential to include certain key elements to ensure the letter is effective and provides a comprehensive overview of the candidate’s qualifications.

These elements include:

1. Sender’s Information

The sender’s information is a critical component of any reference letter, as it establishes the credibility and authority of the person writing the letter.

This section should be clearly outlined at the top of the letter and include the following details:

• Name: The full name of the individual writing the reference letter.
• Title or Position: The professional title or position of the sender, which adds weight to the reference. This should be the current title or the one held while working with the individual being recommended.
• Company or Organization: The name of the company or organization where the sender is employed or affiliated.
• Contact Information: Including an address, phone number, and email address is crucial. It not only offers a means for the recipient to verify the information or seek further clarification but also demonstrates transparency and openness.

2. Recipient’s Information

• Name: The full name of the recipient. If the recipient’s name is not known, a general title or department can be used, such as “Hiring Manager” or “Admissions Committee.”
• Title or Position: Including the recipient’s professional title or position helps in directing the letter to the appropriate person, especially in large organizations where multiple individuals may be involved in the decision-making process.
• Company or Organization: The name of the company or organization where the recipient works. This acknowledges the professional setting into which the candidate is seeking entry or advancement.
• Address: The full postal address of the company or organization. 

3. Salutation

The salutation in a reference letter is more than just a formality; it sets the tone for the communication and shows respect for the recipient.

Here are key elements to consider:

• A Formal Greeting: Begin with a formal greeting such as “Dear,” which is universally recognized as professional and respectful.
• Addressing the Recipient: If you know the recipient’s name, use it directly after the greeting, e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith,” or “Dear Dr. Jones.” 
• Inclusive and Respectful Language: If the recipient’s name or gender is unknown, use a neutral and inclusive salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager,” “Dear Selection Committee,” or “To Whom It May Concern”. 

4. Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph of a reference letter is pivotal in establishing the context of your relationship with the candidate and setting the stage for the endorsement to follow.

Here are some elements to include in this initial section:

• Introduce Yourself: Start by introducing yourself to give the recipient an understanding of who you are. Mention your name and your professional position or title, as this adds credibility to your recommendation.
• Your Relationship with the Candidate: Clearly state your professional or academic relationship with the person you are recommending. This could be as their supervisor, colleague, professor, or mentor.
• Duration of Relationship: Include how long you have known the individual. This time frame helps the recipient gauge the depth and extent of your experience with the candidate.
• Purpose of the Letter: Briefly mention the purpose of your letter – to recommend the individual for a specific position, program, or opportunity. This sets a clear context for the rest of your letter.

5. Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs are the core of the reference letter, where you provide detailed insights into the candidate’s qualifications, skills, achievements, and character.

Here’s how to structure this section effectively:

• Specific Examples and Details: Use concrete examples to illustrate the person’s skills and qualifications. For instance, if you are highlighting their leadership skills, mention a specific project they led and the positive outcomes that resulted from it.
• Highlight Relevant Experiences and Accomplishments: Discuss experiences that directly relate to the position or opportunity the individual is pursuing. For example, if they’re applying for a managerial role focus on instances where they demonstrated effective management skills.
• Unique Qualities or Strengths: Point out any unique strengths or qualities that make the individual stand out. This could include exceptional problem-solving skills, innovative thinking, or a strong commitment to teamwork.
• Personal Anecdotes or Stories: Including a brief story or anecdote can make your letter more engaging and memorable. This could be an instance where the individual overcame a significant challenge or went above and beyond in their role.
• Balanced Perspective: While it’s important to focus on positive attributes, offering a balanced perspective can add authenticity to your letter. If appropriate, you can mention areas where the candidate has shown growth during your relationship.

Remember, the goal of these paragraphs is to provide a vivid picture of the candidate’s abilities and character. Well-chosen examples and stories make your endorsement more convincing and help the recipient understand why the individual is an excellent fit for the opportunity.

6. Closing Paragraph

The closing paragraph of a reference letter is where you encapsulate your overall recommendation and express your support for the individual.

Here are some elements to include:

• Summarize Key Points: Briefly restate the most important qualities, achievements, or skills of the candidate that you have highlighted in the letter. This reinforces your endorsement and reminds the reader of the candidate’s suitability for the position or opportunity.
• Express Your Strong Recommendation: Clearly state your confidence in the candidate and your belief in their suitability for the role or opportunity. Use affirmative language like, “I highly recommend,” or “I am confident that,” to leave no doubt about your support.
• Offer to Provide Further Information: Indicate your willingness to provide additional information or clarification if needed. This shows your genuine support and readiness to assist further in the candidate’s application process.
• Contact Information Reminder: Although your contact information is already at the top, a brief reminder here ensures that it is easily accessible for the reader, should they wish to follow up with you.

7. Closing Salutation

Here’s how to conclude your letter appropriately:

• Use a Professional Closing: Opt for a formal and universally accepted closing phrase. Common examples include “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Yours truly.” 
• Consistency with the Tone: Ensure that the closing salutation matches the overall tone of your letter. If your letter is highly formal, a closing like “Sincerely” is appropriate. For a slightly less formal tone, “Best regards” can be a good choice.
• Space for Signature: If you are sending a hard copy or a scanned version of the letter, leave space for your handwritten signature above your typed name. This personal touch adds authenticity to the document.
• Typed Name and Title: Below the signature space, type your full name and title again. 

Related Article: When Do Employers Check References?

Reference Letter Template

This reference letter template is designed for professionals to easily adapt and customize according to the specific needs of the individual being recommended. Simply fill in the blanks and modify the text as necessary to suit your context.

[Your Name] [Your Title or Position] [Your Company or Organization] [Your Contact Information (Address, Phone Number, Email)] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title or Position] [Recipient’s Company or Organization] [Recipient’s Address]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Full Name] for [Position/Opportunity/Program] at [Recipient’s Company/Organization/School]. As [Your Position] at [Your Company/Organization], I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate’s Name] for [Duration of Relationship] and have witnessed [his/her/their] significant contributions first-hand.

[In this paragraph, provide specific examples of the candidate’s skills, achievements, and qualities. Mention a particular project or responsibility and the impact of their work. Highlight any unique attributes that set the candidate apart.]

[This paragraph should continue to build on the candidate’s qualifications. Include personal anecdotes or stories that illustrate their capabilities and character. Focus on how their contributions positively affected your team or organization.]

I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] will bring [his/her/their] remarkable [skills/qualities, such as leadership, creativity, dedication] to [Recipient’s Company/Organization/School]. [His/Her/Their] ability to [specific skill or contribution] makes [him/her/them] well-suited for [Position/Opportunity/Program]. I strongly endorse [his/her/their] candidacy and believe [he/she/they] will be a valuable addition to your [team/program/organization].

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Contact Information] if you require any further information or specific examples of [Candidate’s Name]’s work and achievements.

[Your Handwritten Signature (if applicable)]

[Your Typed Name] [Your Position]

Related Article: How to Provide References for a Job

Tips for Writing Letters of Recommendation

Crafting effective letters of recommendation requires a delicate balance of showcasing the candidate’s strengths, providing specific examples, and employing persuasive language. Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate the intricacies of this crucial task.

Quantify Achievements

When writing a letter of recommendation, it’s powerful to quantify the candidate’s achievements. Use specific figures and statistics to illustrate their accomplishments. For example, instead of saying “significantly increased sales,” specify “increased sales by 30% over six months.” This provides concrete evidence of their capabilities and makes their achievements more tangible and credible. Quantifying contributions also helps the recipient gauge the scale and impact of these accomplishments, offering a clearer picture of the candidate’s potential.

Connect to the Position or Opportunity

Tailor the letter to the specific position or opportunity the candidate is applying for. Highlight skills and experiences that are directly relevant to the job requirements or academic program. For instance, if the candidate is applying for a leadership role, emphasize their successful team management experiences. This shows that you understand what the role entails and have thoughtfully considered how the candidate’s skills and experiences make them a good fit, making your recommendation more relevant and persuasive.

Include Keywords

Identify important terms in the job listing or academic program description, such as “project management,” “analytical thinking,” or “creative problem-solving,” and weave them into your letter. This not only tailors the letter to the specific role but also ensures it passes through any automated screenings, increasing the chance that your recommendation will be read by decision-makers.

Leverage Technology for Reference Letter Management

Utilize technology platforms for efficient reference letter management. For example, online reference request platforms simplify the process of requesting, writing, storing, and submitting letters of recommendation. These tools often offer templates, reminders, and the ability to submit letters directly to institutions or employers. 

Leveraging such technology can streamline the process, ensuring timely submission and organization of your reference letters, while also offering a secure way to manage sensitive personal information contained within these documents.

Related Article: Reference Check Questions

About the Author

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The Perfect Referral Letter Template

Allison Bressmer

Someone—a student, employee, colleague, or friend—has asked you to write them a letter of referral to help them land a new position or a spot at an academic institution.

You’re happy to help, but... you really don’t want to mess it up!

Don’t stress. You can do this and do it well, and it doesn’t have to take hours of your time.

What Is a Referral Letter?

What makes a strong referral letter, how do i prepare to write a referral letter, what information should a referral letter have, what is a good template for a referral letter.

A referral letter, or letter of recommendation, is often required with job or school applications.

It’s a document written by someone who has a relationship with the applicant, and who can attest to the skills and characteristics that make them a great choice for a professional position or an academic institution.

While a resume or a transcript provides work or academic history, a referral letter gives a more personalized account of the candidate’s qualities, work ethic, and skills.

Additionally, the referral letter provides support and verification of the applicant’s claims about themselves from an outside source. It is also an opportunity to add more substance to those claims using examples and personal experiences.

Referral letters should be:

A referral letter should never be padded with exaggerated or false information. If you can’t write an honest letter of recommendation for someone, politely decline their request.

For one, the dishonesty is simply unethical and unprofessional. Second, the dishonesty will probably come to light during interviews. Or it might become obvious later, after the applicant is hired or enrolled and can’t live up to their own hype, which you helped embellish!

Either way, that exposed dishonesty is a blow to your integrity and reputation.

Even if you are “over the moon” about helping the applicant, and you think the person is the “absolute best ............” you’ve ever known, keep your tone and enthusiasm controlled.

Avoid hyperbole, and use adjectives purposefully.

Non-specific adjectives that offer high praise but little substance aren’t particularly helpful in convincing the letter’s recipient that the candidate is their best choice.

For example, “fantastic worker” or “awesome student” is high praise that doesn’t zero in on specific qualities that will convince the recipient that the applicant is their best choice.

Using a template to structure your letter and determine your content is a good idea. You’ll save time and the template will help ensure that your letter is organized and thorough.

However, the details of the letter’s content—the specific examples—should be obviously connected to the person you’re supporting.

You need to do more than swap out the name of the applicant each time you write a letter.

Well-written

Take the time to edit and proofread your letter carefully. Read it out loud. Run it through ProWritingAid’s Realtime Report.

For a person to take your recommendation seriously, you want to represent yourself as a credible source of information on behalf of the candidate.

Check for typos, passive voice, run-on sentences, and 1000s of other copy editing errors for free with ProWritingAid.

You don’t have to complete these steps in this exact order; you just need to complete them!

1. Gather Background on the Workplace

Learn about the company and position or academic program and university the applicant is pursuing.

A quick perusal of the website and its “about” page should do the trick. Most of your information, though, should come from the applicant; you should not have to do extensive research.

Ask the applicant for an overview of the company or institution and why “this” is the place they want to work / attend.

Ask for a few specifics about the position or academic program.

Using this information, you’ll be able to tailor your comments about the applicant to the ethos of the company or school, and highlight the qualities that make them a good match.

2. Gather Background on the Applicant

You shouldn’t have to dig too deep for this information.

The fact that the applicant has asked you for a recommendation means that you have a relationship with them and have either worked with them, taught or mentored them, or served on committees with them.

However, you still might need to enrich that information.

Ask the candidate for a brief list or summary of special projects, extra-curricular activities, or achievements / awards they have participated in or earned.

If you’re writing for a student application, review the student’s transcript so you can write honestly about their academic achievement.

If they didn’t start out strong, but showed growth and maturity as they progressed through high school or a two-year college, you can attest to that development.

3. Gather the Nuts and Bolts Information

Be certain to address your letter to the correct office and recipient. Again, the applicant can help you here.

Ask for exact names and contact information, and find out if the recipient prefers the letter in a specific format (e.g. Word Doc, Google Doc, PDF).

Though you should tailor each reference letter you write for the person you’re supporting, there are certain elements every letter should have.

1. Your contact information

If you have a letterhead, this information is already there. If you don’t, be certain to include your name, title, and contact details in an appropriate format on the letter.

Some prefer to put this information at the top of the letter, flush with the left margin, others put it after their signature. Whatever format you choose, make sure the information is easily accessible.

2. The recipient’s name, title , and address in an appropriate format

Including this information makes it easy to route the letter to the correct person.

For example, an administrative assistant may be the one to receive and sort letters, so making their final destination clear is helpful to all involved.

3. A specific salutation

“To whom it may concern” is not the way to start a convincing letter. Instead, address the actual person, people, or team receiving the letter.

• Dear Ms. Williams
• Dear President Smith
• Dear Mr. Jones
• Dear Mx. Brown
• Dear Dr. Sullivan
• Dear Chairperson White and Members of the Admissions Committee
• Dear [first and last name]

4. A brief introduction

Establish both your purpose for writing and your credibility as a source of information about the applicant.

5. A discussion of the applicant’s work or performance

Highlight specific achievements with examples or anecdotes.

6. An explanation of how the candidate is a standout

What elements of their character or performance make this person shine? How did those characteristics serve to elevate those around them?

7. Connections between the applicant’s achievements, performance, and characteristics and their future situation

How will the candidate’s future colleagues, bosses, classmates, organization, or institution benefit from what the candidate has shown they have to offer? You can make these connections as you write about the applicant’s performance and standout qualities.

8. A final comment about your belief in the candidate

Express the confidence you have in the contents of your recommendation and in the candidate, and offer an invitation for the recipient to contact you with any follow-up questions.

This example represents the qualities of a strong letter and the contents of a thorough letter.

Though it is an academic recommendation, the same format can be used for a professional letter, with work performance and qualities replacing the academic examples.

While templates can help you structure and organize your letter, you’ll still need to consider and adjust some of the finer details as per the applicant’s request (e.g. how will you refer to the applicant?).

Remember to gather background and “nuts and bolts” information before you write your referral letter.

May 10, 2021

Professor Beth Simms Department of English Community College One College Road Garden Park, State 11111

Professor Joseph Arnold Business/Business Marketing Program Great State University Two College Road Park City, State 22222

Dear (Professor Arnold),

(Introduction: establish relationship and credibility)

I am writing to express my support for (Julie Smith’s) acceptance into the (Business Marketing Program at Great State University). (Julie) was a student in my (English 101 online summer class, 2020), and based on that experience, I can attest to her motivation, work ethic, and academic achievement.

(Personalized discussion of applicant’s performance/connections to in)

When (Julie) requested this recommendation, our class had been over for three months, I was halfway into my fall schedule, and the names of all of my current students had already filled my brain. Still, upon seeing her request, I immediately recognized her name and recalled several of her essays. She wrote with sincerity and maturity. Her work was always submitted on time (truly) and never earned less than an “A.” In fact, her final average was a 97% and her cumulative GPA is a 3.97. Clearly, she is a gifted, dedicated student.

(Discussion of a distinct, standout quality/connection)

(Julie) didn’t just use her class experience to improve her own skills; she enriched the experiences of others. Her active participation in online discussions facilitated greater participation from other students as she asked thoughtful questions, offered insightful responses, and generated enthusiasm for the class and for writing overall. Students who care about learning and contribute to an atmosphere of engagement and scholarship in their classrooms, as (Julie) did, facilitate a learning environment and experience that is better for everyone involved.

(Additional discussion of distinctive qualities/connection)

Through her work, (Julie) shared her decision to take time away from school to determine her career path. She has shown true initiative, using that time to acquire “real-world” experience, and taking on her current leadership role as marketing coordinator for (Sell This!). (Julie) has evaluated this experience, gaining insights about her specific strengths and interests in the field which have prompted her to apply for (Great State’s) program. I am certain that (Julie) will complete the course of study successfully and apply the skills she acquires to her present and future real-world experiences. She will be an impressive representative of your program.

(Final comment expressing confidence/invitation to speak further)

It is with pleasure that I recommend (Julie Smith) for (Great State’s Business Marketing) program. I am confident in her ability to complete the program successfully, to elevate the experiences of her peers, and ultimately, to represent (Great State) admirably. Please contact me at (phone and email) if you would like to discuss this recommendation further.

(Professor Beth Simms) Email Phone

How Do Referral Letters Help Applicants?

Referral letters provide personal information to help back up the claims applicants make on their CVs and cover letters . They help tell the story of why they are perfect for the role they are applying for.

So remember, only write a letter of recommendation if you genuinely believe in the applicant and their suitability for the opportunity at hand.

Now you have these tips and templates, the next time you’re asked to write a referral letter, you don’t have to stress about how to “get it right.”

Gather your information, fill each component, and provide personal, honest support for your colleague (or employee, or student). You’ve got this!

Want to learn more great business writing hacks? Download this free book now:

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Allison Bressmer is a professor of freshman composition and critical reading at a community college and a freelance writer. If she isn’t writing or teaching, you’ll likely find her reading a book or listening to a podcast while happily sipping a semi-sweet iced tea or happy-houring with friends. She lives in New York with her family. Connect at linkedin.com/in/allisonbressmer.

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How to Write a Letter of Recommendation (Template + Tips)

Learn how to write a letter of recommendation, including tips on what to include and when to say no.

A letter of recommendation is a letter written on behalf of an applicant by someone who can vouch for that person’s educational or professional performance. This letter is typically sent to an admissions officer or hiring manager considering a candidate for admission, employment, or a scholarship.

Letters of recommendation help round out an application. They do this by offering insight into an applicant’s personal qualities like integrity, intellectual curiosity, or leadership potential. Writing a strong letter of recommendation as a teacher, counselor, manager, or co-worker can help give an applicant an edge over their competition.

Letter of recommendation template

Use this template to get you started on writing a properly formatted recommendation.

Letter of recommendation sample

Here’s an example of a strong recommendation letter written using the template above.

How to format a letter of recommendation

Different organizations have different recommendation letter requirements. Be sure to ask the requester about any specific guidelines. In general, a letter or recommendation can be broken down into the following sections:

Recipient Name

Recipient Title

Recipient Address

Greeting: Address the recipient by name if possible (Dear Ms/Mr).

Personal introduction: Begin the body of your letter by introducing who you are and your relationship to the applicant.

Recommendation: What makes the candidate a good fit? Offer specific examples of skills or qualifications that match the role.

Anecdote or example: Include a personal anecdote about what it’s like to work with the candidate. Include any workplace or people skills you’ve observed them to possess.

Closing: Give an overview of why you’d recommend this person.

Contact information: Provide your email address and phone number so the recipient can follow up.

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Tips for writing a strong letter of recommendation

If you’re writing a recommendation letter, you likely want the candidate to have the best chance of getting a positive result. Here are some tips for writing a good letter that may stand out to admissions officers, potential employers, or anyone else reviewing the letter.

Do your research.

Find out what exactly the candidate is applying for. Ask them to provide:

A copy of the job description or academic program requirements 

Their resume

Any particular skills, achievements, or qualifications they’d like you to highlight 

This will help you focus your letter on the skills or qualifications that are specific to the role the candidate is applying for. 

Be specific.

Please feel free to use a template (like the one above) to guide your writing, but remember to make it personal. Use examples and specific details to illustrate why this person is the best candidate. Choose strong, accurate adjectives over general terms or cliches. 

Think about what the person reading the letter might want to know. Include details or insight that wouldn’t necessarily show up on a resume or application. Your letter should help the recipient get to know the person you are recommending. 

Read more: How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation (Template + Tips)

Stay positive.

Your recommendation should confirm that this candidate is a strong contender for whatever they’re applying for. Demonstrate honest enthusiasm, and avoid any comments that could be construed in a negative light. If you can make a superlative comparison between this person and others you’ve worked with (e.g. “she’s one of the best student aides I’ve had the pleasure to work with in my career as a professor”), do so.

Keep it formal and concise.

Use a business letter format using a twelve point font size in either Arial or Times New Roman. Write your letter on your business or organization letterhead if possible. The recipient likely reads dozens if not hundreds of letters, so keep yours concise and to the point. Aim for at least one page but no more than two. 

Don’t be afraid to say no.

If you feel like you’re unable to offer a glowing recommendation for a candidate, it’s okay to say no. A mediocre endorsement can often do as much damage as a negative one. While it may feel uncomfortable, it’s perfectly acceptable to respectfully decline a request.

Follow the instructions.

You’re vouching for this person. Be sure to follow any specific submission guidelines carefully, and get your letter in on time (or early). If your letter makes a good impression, that will carry over to the candidate you’re endorsing.

How to ask for a letter of recommendation

Chances are that you’ll be asked to provide letters of recommendation as part of an application you’re submitting sometime during your education or career. This is particularly true when you’re applying for graduate programs. One or more letters of recommendation are almost always part of the application process.

Keep reading

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How to Write a Referral Letter With Template

Category: Guides , Handwrytten Help

Has an employee, friend or  colleague  asked you to write a referral letter for them? Are you unclear what that means and what form of words to use?  Handwrytten  is here to help!

Find out what a referral letter is and the key content that should be in one. We’ve also provided some  useful examples , which you may use as a reference when writing your referral letter.

Keep reading for how to write a referral letter with examples.

• What is a Referral Letter?

Background Information

Your experience with the individual, anecdotes to back your claims, demonstrate how the individual fulfills a job specification, outline of a recommendation letter, important context to keep in mind when writing a letter of recommendation, reference letter example, software developer referral letter, lawyer example recommendation letter, financial manager letter of recommendation, market research analyst referral letter, letter of recommendation for a high school teacher, write a formal letter of recommendation that stands out, what is a referral letter.

A referral letter is known by many names:

• A letter of recommendation
• A recommendation letter
• A reference letter

It is a letter you write about someone, regarding your personal experience of them. Usually, a recommendation letter is written in the context of employment. Someone applying for a new job may ask you to write a referral letter for them, in order to strengthen their application.

Note that a referral letter is different from a reference, in that you are positively recommending someone for a position. It is something job candidates will use as part of their application process to help them stand out from the rest. In contrast, a reference is something that new employers will request from a previous (or current) employer. References are usually neutral in nature, including details of attendance, punctuality, sick leave, promotions, and similar quantifiable information.

If you are asked to write a letter of recommendation, it’s important that you feel able to comment honestly and positively on the person‘s work performance and your experience of them. If you don’t feel able to do this, it’s best not to write a recommendation letter. You may wish to provide a neutral reference instead.

It’s important to avoid saying anything overtly negative about an individual, particularly when they’re a former employee applying for a new job. Not only is it not helpful, but there is also a precedent for other employees, who have been given a negative reference or referral letter to sue!

Sections of a Referral Letter

Take a look at the recommendation letter headings you should include as part of your communication. Note that these are just a guide – there’s no reason why you can’t add additional information and/or examples of reference letters if you wish.

This may include how long you’ve known the individual and in what context. You may also list the individual’s skills and qualifications.

Include information such as contact details, the tasks and special projects they’ve completed, and the added value they bring to these tasks. Detail the attributes this individual possesses which make them such a great employee/co-worker/boss.

Rather than simply stipulating someone’s good points, it’s helpful to use anecdotes to illustrate them. For example, “John Smith is an exceptionally hard worker. During a busy period last year, when we were short-staffed, he regularly took on additional work and completed it to the same high standard as everything else he does”.

If the individual candidate is applying for a particular job, you may wish to link their talents and positive qualities to the job specification. This includes the applicant’s strengths and personal attributes that are listed as essential or desirable for the new role.

A letter of recommendation should be organized in the following format:

At the top of the page, include both your address (on the top left of the page), and that of the person to whom the letter is addressed (not the person you are writing about), if you have it. Typically that would be a representative from the organization to whom the person is applying for employment – ensure to include the recipient’s title.

Address your letter to the company or organization’s representative (Dear Mr. Smith, for example), or, if it is a general recommendation letter, simply write a brief introduction such as, “To whom it may concern.”

Follow this with an introductory paragraph.

The subsequent paragraph or paragraphs should go into detail about the individual applicant’s qualities, achievements, and why they’re the best fit for the job. Remember to include anecdotes to back up your statements.

Your final paragraph should provide a summary of what you’ve written in previous paragraphs.

The letter closing should be a formal one, details of which are provided  here . If you are unfamiliar with writing formal letters,  this  covers the basics.

Ensure that the letter of recommendation’s recipient is taken into account; if it is meant to be a more formal referral, a closing like “with love” is not suitable.

When you are writing, or are asking someone to write recommendation letters, you must keep in mind that hiring managers care more about who you are as a person than just your qualifications.

In any high-level job, there are going to be dozens of candidates who share the same enthusiasm and a similar skillset, meaning the core thing that sets you apart is your personality. A strong letter will focus on this point, and will point out how you stand out in the workplace.

Emphasizing that previous employers  consistently saw the positive impact you had in the workplace is key to writing an effective letter. This means focusing on things like your work ethic, how co-workers felt about working with you, and if you might be a good fit are important to note.

This is an example of the wording that would typically be used when writing a referral letter. Remember to keep the content relevant and concise. Ideally, a recommendation letter should be a single side of the paper, and certainly no more than two sides. Aim to keep your content minimal, while communicating important information.

Dear [Organization Representative],

I am delighted to recommend [Individual’s Name] for the position of [position].

[Individual’s Name] worked as [job title] for [period of time]. [Name of individual] has a wealth of skills and knowledge, including [provide specific examples of relevant qualifications and key achievements]. As their [your position or relationship to the individual], I was very impressed by the [key qualities] [Name of individual] displayed.

A very valuable asset to any team, [Name] offers [a number of “hard” skills, such as extensive knowledge of a particular subject area, specific technical skills]. In addition, they are [list some soft skills here, such as a team player, friendly, empathetic, a good listener, innovative or similar].

[Name] demonstrates a formidable knowledge of [subject]. They were [now provide an example of where they used this knowledge]. An example might be: John demonstrates a formidable breadth of copywriting experience. Whilst with our team he wrote several e-books, numerous press releases, web content, and a series of marketing emails that boosted response rates for one of our clients by more than 97%.

Repeat this formula (state the person‘s skill or attribute then provide an example to illustrate this) for as many paragraphs as required.

In summary, I have no hesitation in recommending [Name] for the position of [position]. They are an accomplished [job title] as well as a fantastic [personal or soft quality].

Please get in touch if you have any further questions or insights. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Extra Sample Referral Letters

Here are a few generic sample referral letters you can use for specific situations. In between brackets are where you should be editing and putting specific, relevant terms to you and your situation.

Dear [Hiring Manager],

It is with great pleasure that I recommend [John Doe] for the position of Senior Developer at your company. [John] was an integral member of my team at [XYZ Corporation] for the past five years, during which time he consistently and effectively exceeded all expectations.

[John]’s technical skills and knowledge are vast and his attention to detail is impeccable. He has a wealth of experience in software development, including web applications, mobile apps, and databases, as well as a deep understanding of coding languages such as [C++, Java, and Python]. He quickly gets up to speed on new technologies and never hesitates to take on challenges. On top of this, he brings creativity and innovative solutions to complex problems while still adhering to tight deadlines.

[John] is also a great team player and always extremely hard working. His eagerness to learn, coupled with his strong work ethic, makes him a valuable asset to any organization. I am confident that [John] would be an excellent addition to your development team and will be a great resource for many years to come.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further information about [John]’s qualifications or skillset – I’ve included my contact information below.

[Your Name  (Former Hiring Manager)  XYZ Corporation]

Dear Ms [Recipient],

I am writing to you to recommend one of my former colleagues, [John Doe]. I have known [John] for [four] years and worked with him as a lawyer at [ABC law firm].

[John] is an outstanding professional and his qualifications are excellent. He graduated from [XYZ Law School] with honors and has been practicing law for [seven] years, specializing in [corporate law]. His knowledge of [contract law] is exceptional; he was the go-to person when [complicated legal issues] arose in our office. Additionally, he is very organized and detail-oriented which allows him to complete tasks efficiently and competently.

[John] also possesses great [interpersonal] skills; [he’s incredibly friendly and always willing to help others]. He interacts well with clients, colleagues, and other legal professionals. He is able to explain complex concepts in an understandable way and is always willing to answer any questions that arise.

In short, I cannot recommend [John] enough for the position of a corporate lawyer at your firm. His skill set and qualifications make him an ideal candidate and a great asset to any team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need more information.

[Your Name (Former Colleague) ABC Law Firm]

I am writing to you to recommend my former associate, [Individual’s Name]. I have known [Individual’s Name] for two years and worked with him in the financial department at [XYZ Corporation].

[Individual’s Name] has excellent educational qualifications; he graduated from [ABC Business School] at the top of his class and then went on to obtain a [Master’s degree in Finance] from [XYZ University]. He also has [seven] years of experience working as a [financial manager] in various industries. His expertise lies specifically in [budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis and project management].

[Individual’s Name] is highly organized and meticulous when it comes to managing finances. He pays close attention to detail and always seeks out potential areas for improvement or cost savings within the business. He is also highly efficient and adept at working with tight deadlines. On top of this, he has strong [communication] skills and can effectively collaborate with other members of the finance team.

On a personal level, [Individual’s Name] is an extremely reliable and dependable colleague. His enthusiasm for learning new skills and taking on challenging tasks makes him a great asset in any organization. I am confident that he would be an excellent addition to your team as a financial manager and will be a valuable resource for many years to come.

If you need any more information about [Individual’s Name]’s qualifications or skillset please do not hesitate to reach out to me. My contact information is included below.

[Your Name (Former Colleague) XYZ Corporation]

I am writing to you to recommend my former colleague, [John Doe]. I have known [John] for [three] years and worked with him as a [market research analyst] at [ABC Corporation].

[John] is an incredibly talented professional; he graduated from [XYZ University] with honors and has several years of experience in the field. He has extensive knowledge of various marketing tools such as [Google Analytics, Facebook Insights, and Adobe Marketing Cloud].

[John] simultaneously exhibits excellent [analytical] skills which allow him to quickly assess challenges and provide accurate solutions. He is very organized and detail-oriented; his ability to break down large amounts of data into meaningful insights helps inform key decisions. On top of this, he is a creative and innovative thinker which aids him in developing effective strategies.

On a personal level, [John] has always been an enthusiastic team player; his positive attitude and willingness to help others make him an asset in any work environment. He is also highly adaptable and can easily adjust to new situations or processes with ease.

I am confident that [John] would be an excellent addition to your team as a market research analyst and will be a valuable resource for many years to come. If you need any more information about [John]’s qualifications or skillset please do not hesitate to contact me.

[Your Name (Former Colleague) ABC Corporation]

Dear Hiring Committee,

I am writing to you to recommend my former colleague, Mrs. Jane Smith. I have known Mrs. Smith for four years and worked with her as a high school math teacher at XYZ High School.

Mrs. Smith is an incredibly talented professional; she graduated from ABC University with honors and has several years of teaching experience in the field. She has extensive knowledge of mathematics and is well-versed in curriculum development, classroom management and assessment strategies.

Mrs. Smith simultaneously exhibits a deep understanding of the subject matter as well as an ability to make complex problems more easily understandable for her students. She is also very organized with an eye for detail which helps her create engaging and effective lesson plans. On top of this, she is patient and encouraging with students, motivating them to work hard and reach their full potential.

On a personal level, Mrs. Smith has always been an enthusiastic team player; her positive attitude and willingness to help others make her an asset in any educational environment. She is also highly adaptable and can easily adjust to new situations or processes with ease.

I am confident that Mrs. Smith would be an excellent addition to your team as a high school math teacher and will be a valuable resource for many years to come. If you need any more information about Mrs. Smith’s qualifications or skillset please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

Your Name (Former Colleague) XYZ High School

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Letters of Recommendation Examples and Samples

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It may seem like a lone endeavor to apply for medical school . However, you have to do almost everything. 

You must attain high academic standing, do well on the MCAT , complete enough clinical hours, and produce an outstanding collection of personal statements and secondary essays . 

Therefore, it makes sense that you might be eager to delegate the writing of your recommendations, one application component, to another person. 

Both DO and MD programs require letters of recommendation from medical schools as a crucial component of the admission process. They are intended to give admissions committees a third-party, unbiased assessment of your suitability for a career in medicine.

This article is here to give you letters of recommendation samples. If you want to know what a strong letter of recommendation looks like, please keep reading. 

How to Get an Excellent and Strong Letter of Recommendation for Medical Schools

Your letters of recommendation could be the deciding factor for you to get admitted to the medical school of your choice. 

The tricky part, however, is that you will not be writing these letters of recommendation. 

How do you get a strong letter of recommendation and know who to ask to write them for you? 

Below are some tips that will help you get a great letter of recommendation worthy of acceptance:

• Request an OUTSTANDING or STRONG letter of recommendation. Consider consulting someone else if your letter writer appears uncertain. On the other hand, you may determine if your letter will be poor, average, or outstanding by requesting solid advice.
• To jog the writer's memory and draw attention to accomplishments you want to discuss, highlight extraordinary qualities or interactions you have had with them.
• Suppose you have a draft of your medical school personal statement, fellowship essays, and summer internship application. You are not required to have the final manuscript prepared. However, this will make it clearer to your recommendation writers WHY you wish to pursue a particular opportunity.
• Provide a CV for reference purposes.

Letters of Recommendation Samples 

Letters of recommendation are a crucial part of your application to medical school. While you will not be the one writing it, it is also vital that you are aware of what a good recommendation letter looks like. 

Below are letters of recommendation samples from different kinds of authors for your reference:

Letter of Recommendation Sample from a Science Professor: 

Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,

Amanda Smith was a student of mine in the fourth-year seminar "Advanced Embryology and Developmental Biology" in the fall of 2018. It is a joy for me to write this reference letter for Amanda. She is a remarkable student. She has been among the best students I have ever taught in my ten years at X University.

Amanda excelled in my class thanks to her strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Her other instructors, with whom I have spoken, concur that she possesses outstanding analytical skills. I had frequently observed her ability to monitor and draw enlightening conclusions, mainly when working in the lab. Even outside the allotted lab time, Amanda seemed to spend much time diligently working on her studies.

Amanda displayed exceptional levels of technical knowledge and advancements in embryological systems. Her thoughtful queries revealed her interest in the unknown and her desire to broaden her knowledge. She is a great teammate who is always willing to assist her colleagues.

In the classroom and as a tutor after class, I have seen Amanda assist her peers with challenging lab experiments. She is happy and compassionate in her contact with teachers, students, and faculty members. Amanda completed all lab and tutorial tasks on time and to the highest standard. She offered to lead a student study group ahead of my course's final lab and exam. She dedicated much of his time and effort to ensuring she and her classmates were ready.

Amanda spent extra time explaining concepts to an international student who struggled to grasp them. She listened to the student's worries and gradually deconstructed the idea until he was confident the student had a firm grasp of the subject. Her compassion moved me deeply.

Amanda's professionalism and maturity also made an impression on me. She developed polite connections with my assistants, peers, and myself throughout her stay in my class. 

Amanda Smith is an ideal candidate for your medical school program, and I wholeheartedly recommend her. I can only think of a select handful of students throughout my teaching career that merits such high praise and endorsement. Amanda is a talented scientist who is also very intelligent and caring. She would make a fantastic doctor in the future. Her commitment to greatness is admirable.

Please get in touch with me if there is anything else I can say to convince you of Amanda Smith's sterling character.

Dr. Writer's Name

Letter of Recommendation Sample from a Non-Science Professor

It gives me great pleasure to endorse Oscar Sanchez for medical school. Oscar was genuinely interested in and applied to the subject during the previous term, so I welcomed him as a student in my Sociology course. 

Oscar and I have met frequently during my office hours throughout the two semesters I have taught him. I consider him an up-and-coming student. He consistently outperformed my top sociology majors regarding homework quality and academic performance.

When reading through the course materials, I ask my students to create brainstorming sheets to gauge their preparation and participation in class. I can make sure my pupils consider and reflect on what they are learning in this way. Oscar undoubtedly spent the most time in his style, honing his ability to understand new ideas by taking notes. Mr. Sanchez was always prepared for class and provided very constructive in-class involvement due to his effort.

Oscar wrote about the challenges doctors encounter when providing care to low-income neighborhoods for his final-term project in Sociology. He conducted in-depth research into elite doctors' tendency to serve wealthy communities and the lack of incentives for highly qualified healthcare professionals to work in underserved areas. 

The conclusions he made to show the cost of medical school vs. the types of salaries offered by institutions that get government financing were included in his article as visual aids. His ability to describe and combine several issues into a single argument and how he integrated sociological theory into his analysis were highly outstanding.

Oscar has several characteristics that constitute a good learner. He is equally adept at independently thinking and conducting research as he is at skillfully integrating and applying new ideas. He is a brilliant student who efficiently manages the pressure and demands of academic work.

Oscar can succeed in medical school; therefore, I sincerely hope you will carefully consider allowing him to enroll in your course.

Please contact me if there is anything further I can do to support Oscar's candidacy.

Letter of Recommendation Sample from a Research Supervisor:

It gives me great pleasure to endorse Priya Gupta, who worked as my research assistant over the summer of 2018 in the Minority Health Disparities Undergraduate Summer Research Program. Priya has proven to be one of the top research assistants I have enjoyed working with in my five years as the summer research program's director.

Priya excelled throughout the summer research program, showcasing outstanding analytical and problem-solving abilities. She has fulfilled her duty as a research assistant, offering to work overtime or assist with lab tasks with flying colors. She constantly seeks clarification, double-checks her data, and requests input on her work, all signs of her attention to detail. I've confirmed with my colleagues that other program supervisors have taken notice of her work ethic.

Priya consistently displayed a high caliber and grade of work while participating in the summer research program, in addition to a high degree of empathy and comprehension. She volunteered to assist another research assistant who made a mistake, apologize to the offended colleague, and reassure the other student after the issue was fixed.

To prevent the error from occurring again and help the other student regain her confidence, Priya worked with her after that. After receiving Priya's help and coaching, the other student's confidence and work quality significantly improved. Priya assisted another student without dominating or being intrusive, handling the problem with empathy and adept interpersonal skills. I was struck by how she treated the other research assistant with consideration and kindness.

Priya was a delight to have in the program, especially when out in the field. When undertaking fieldwork, she acted with the utmost professionalism and politeness toward her coworkers, her bosses, and outside consultants. Priya treated every participant in the study with the utmost respect. She even made friends with some of our colleagues, who told me they were impressed by Priya's zeal and excitement. She consistently displayed enthusiasm and passion for the endeavor, regardless of the circumstance.

Priya Gupta is the top applicant for your medical school program, in my opinion. No other research assistant that I can think of has had such a positive impact on my colleagues and me. Thanks to her excellent work ethic, kind heart, and keen mind, Priya will make a fantastic doctor.

Should there be anything I can do to support Priya's candidacy, please contact me.

Letter of Recommendation Sample from an Extracurricular Advisor:

I've had the pleasure of coaching Peter Johnson for the last four years as a member of the X University Pandas basketball team, so I'm writing this letter of recommendation for him.

Peter has consistently turned up and proved why he is a great athlete and teammate, from his initial tryouts to his final successes with our team. When he graduates this spring, the other coaches, me, and the squad will miss having him on the floor.

Peter immediately made an impression on me during freshmen auditions because of his athleticism, excitement, contagious optimism, and unwavering dedication to consistently turning up, getting better, and enduring.

No matter the obstacles he encountered due to injury, illness, game cancellations, or personal issues, his energy and tireless optimism never faltered once he had made the team. He could juggle his academic schedule with our workouts and games while maintaining a positive attitude on the court.

Clearly, Peter also impacted his teammates because they looked up to him as a buddy, mentor, and natural leader. Peter never criticizes others or assigns responsibility for errors; instead, he is eager to encourage, congratulate, and assist. His colleagues have picked up this mindset because he keeps his head up and is focused on the future.

But because of his medical background, he contributed to the team's most notable success. First aid training is something that Peter has, and it came in handy when a teammate passed out on the court during a routine practice. Immediately starting first aid after rushing to his teammate's side, Peter guided the other players on what to do while maintaining everyone's composure and keeping them updated on the situation.

Thankfully, the teammate made a full recovery, but Peter's heroics inspired not only the squad but also me. Peter was essential in organizing a series of first aid and sports injury first aid lessons that I would host with the team.

Without a doubt, Peter will succeed in becoming a top-notch doctor. His enthusiasm, ambition, and nature are boundless, and he succeeds at anything he sets his mind to. Peter's Pandas teammates have nothing but affection and respect for him. We are all eager to see where his next step in life leads him. I can't express how much I think Peter deserves a seat in your program.

Name of Author

Letter of Recommendation from a Physician/Employer Sample:

I'm sending this letter on Lee Hong's behalf as he applies to medical school. I've known Lee for the past two years. He has worked as a medical assistant under my direct supervision in my internal medicine practice. He has observed me as I conduct patient evaluations. 

Lee's primary duties in my office were to welcome clients, record visits in our electronic medical record, and assist clients with check-out. Six months ago, Lee completed his EMS certification and assisted our clinical assistants and nurses with the initial vital sign collection during patient visits. When the patients were willing, Lee watched me as I provided care as a shadow student.

I think Lee possesses numerous strengths that will help him succeed as a medical professional and student. He is, first and foremost, independent and intellectually curious since he reads about the patient's diagnosis independently. He would also pose inquiries that showed intelligence and a swift ability to assemble data. Our occasional discussions on his college coursework were exciting and demonstrated his academic dedication.

Lee possesses the understanding and compassion that all medical professionals ought to have. His kindness, compassion, and attentive listening were frequently complimented by patients. Lee received a lot of holiday gifts from his appreciative patients. He is the first young student I have worked with who received this recognition. In addition, I observed that he had an exceptional capacity for relating to patients due to her openness, authenticity, honesty, and respect for everyone.

Finally, Lee had exceptional interpersonal abilities. He worked excellently with my diverse staff, respecting everyone in my office and adding to the productive work environment. Lee was an outstanding team member who was constantly conscious of when someone needed assistance or was having a difficult day. I have never seen someone his age have the maturity and respect for others that he demonstrates.

Lee has my highest possible recommendation. Of all the students I've worked with, Lee is the most intelligent, responsible, and fit for a medical career. I commend the medical school that was successful in choosing him to enroll.

Contact us if you have any questions.

Dr. Writer’s Name

Follow-up Letter Samples 

A strong letter of recommendation will better your chances of being admitted into the medical school of your choice…if your writer submits them on time. 

That is why it is essential to follow up on them, especially if the due date is approaching and you have not heard from them. 

Here are a few samples of follow-up letters:

Dear (Name of Referee),

I trust all is well with you.

I just wanted to check in to see if you needed any additional aid to help you create a strong letter of recommendation on my behalf as the application season for medical school is approaching. Do you require any other information to help you with your writing?

In addition, I wanted to inform you that the letter submission deadline is (insert date). I appreciate your decision to help me with my medical school application.

If you require anything else, don't hesitate to let me know.

Sincerely, 

Sample 2: 

I appreciate your recommending me for medical education so much. I've attached a draft of a letter of reference for you to review and edit as necessary, as we discussed last week.

My interests are global medicine and public health. Since I cannot speak to myself, I have left room for you to fill in a paragraph that places me in the context of other students you have worked with.

Please inform me if there is anything else I can do to assist you with this letter or if you need any additional information. I’d be more than willing and happy to do so.

I sincerely appreciate your help throughout this procedure.

Thank You Letter Samples 

Lastly, sending a thank you note to those who have supported your candidacy means a lot to your referees. It shows that you are grateful for their time and effort in writing your recommendation letter.

Here are a couple of thank you letter samples for your reference.

Thank you so much for composing a recommendation for me to support my medical school application. 

Thank you for making an effort to do this for me. Being your student was an incredible honor, and I appreciate the letter you wrote to support my academic aspirations.

As the application season develops, I will inform you of any updates.

I want to express my gratitude for composing a letter of recommendation for my medical school application. I appreciate you for supporting my candidacy.

As the entry period for medical school develops, I'll keep you informed.

Have a great summer with your family!

Additional FAQs – Letters of Recommendation Samples

Can i submit a non-science letter of recommendation to medical schools, when should my letters of recommendation be sent, how long should my letters of recommendation be, you're no longer alone on your journey to becoming a physician.