Unit 5 Reference Letters/Letters of Recommendation

Salutation If you are writing a personal letter of reference, include a saluation (Dear Dr. Smith, Dear Mr. Jones, etc.). If you are writing a general letter, say "To Whom it May Concern" or simply don't include a saluation.

Paragraph 1

The first paragraph of the reference letter template explains your connection to the person you are recommending, including how you know them, and why you are qualified to write a reference letter to recommend employment.

Paragraph 2

The second paragraph of the reference letter template contains specific information on the person you are writing about, including why they are qualified, what they can contribute, and why you are providing a reference letter.

Paragraph 3

When writing a specific letter referring a candidate for a particular job opening, the reference letter template will include information on how the person's skills match the position they are applying for. Ask for a copy of the job posting and a copy of the person's resume so you can target your reference letter accordingly.

Summary

This section of the reference letter template contains a brief summary of why are you are recommending the person. State that you "highly recommend" the person or you "recommend without reservation" or something similar.

Conclusion

The concluding paragraph of the reference letter template contains an offer to provide more information. Include the phone number and email address in the return address section of your letter, or in your signature.

Sincerely,

Writer’s Signature

Writer’s Name Title

John Smith National Attorney 257, Park Avenue South New York, NY 12345-6789

1st May, 2007

To whom it may concern:

      Richard worked under my supervision as a real estate attorney from Feb. 01, 1999, until Feb. 29, 2004. His responsibilities included handling corporate, real estate, intellectual property, and governmental affairs of our clients. During the course of his employment, Richard proved himself to be an able employee, a hard worker, and a brilliant lawyer.

      I was quite impressed by Richard's ability to complete all work assigned to him on time. His suggestions were always thorough and comprehensive, and his fact checking always accurate. We sometimes allow our assistants to do some cases on their own, but Richard' talents prompted us to assign him more pieces than normal. His theoretical knowledge is clear, concise, and evocative.

      Overall, Richard is a very meticulous and able employee. I certainly believe he has what it takes to make a wonderful attorney someday, and I am sad to see him leave. I strongly recommend Richard for any mid-level legal position in financial consultancies.

Regards,

John Smith CMD National Attorney