Reference Letters Samples

Reference Letters Samples

A reference letter or a recommendation letter is written to testify to a person skills, character and achievements. This letter is a formal document, and should be typed and written in a serious style.

Reference letters are used in many situations. For instance, when a candidate applies for a job, the recruiter or human resource officer may need a reference. If an interviewee is given a job offer, they may need to supply a business-like reference letter before the contract can be signed. Students applying for an academic course or for funding often require a reference letter to support their application. Companies may use reference letters as testimonies to their trustworthiness and ability to carry out a job well. Prospective tenants may need to provide their landlord with a reference letter, testifying to their financial status.

A reference letter is a formal document, and it is crucial that you do not lie or fudge the truth in it, or there could be legal repercussions.

The exact structure of a reference letter will differ depending on the type of reference it is. There are a number of good templates for reference letters. We have included dozens of these letters which would be appropriate for a general-purpose reference.

A few samples of Recommendation and Reference Letters:

• Personal Letter of Reference
• College Recommendation Letter
• Letter of Recommendation for Employment
• Reference Letter - Management
• Adoption Reference Letter
• Child Custody Reference Letter
• Character Reference Letter
• Adoption Reference Letter — Parents Already
• Accounting and Financial Cover Letter
• IT Cover Letter
• Letter of Presentation - Controller
• Cover Letter for Controller Position
• Controller Cover Letter
• Compensation Analyst Cover Letter
• Parole Board Character Reference
• Parole Board Character Reference Another Sample
• Parole Character Reference
• Criminal Court Character Reference — Co-worker
• Academic Reference for a Student

Personal Letter of Reference

This letter serves to vouch for the personal character of Megan Jorgensen. I have known her for 10 years, since the time she moved into our neighborhood with her family and when she was a teenager.

I have always known Megan Jorgensen to be of good character. She is very generous and kind. Even as a teenager, she was always thinking of others. For instance, several times, after she got done mowing his lawn he'd come over and mow mine as well, refusing to accept any payment from me.

Now that she is in her 20s and out of the house, I don't see Megan Jorgensen as much. However, last summer she brought her young child over to visit a few times and he seemed to be good natured and enjoyed being with his mom.

In my experience, Megan Jorgensen has proven herself to be an honest, hard-working young lady who loves her family. I trust her very much.

College Recommendation Letter

I am pleased to recommend Megan Jorgensen, who is applying for admission to Harvard University. I am his biology teacher at Rosedale High School, and also coach the basketball team, on which she is a center.

Megan Jorgensen is a wonderful student to have in class. She is eager to participate in class discussions, takes his schoolwork seriously, and always has a creative way of looking at things.

Megan has many interests beyond academics. Besides playing on the basketball team (and making the all-state team), she is a member of the school chess club. Obviously, Megan is not one to follow the crowd. She is confident in pursuing her interests, regardless of whether they are considered "cool" or not. Still, she is well-liked by his peers as well as the faculty and staff here.

With his 2.8 grade point average, I'm aware that Megan Jorgensen has set his sights high in applying to Harvard University, but I am convinced it will be a great fit for both Megan and the university. Please take into account that she has maintained a positive attitude, full class schedule, team sports and a part-time job at the Sports Superstore despite that fact that his father succumbed to cancer earlier this year.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if I can shed any more light on Megan Jorgensen, including her stellar character and prospects for a bright future at your school.

Sincerely…

Letter of Recommendation for Employement

This letter serves to recommend Marine Le Pen for employment. I worked with her for three years at FNF Company, where we were both sales representatives.

Mrs. Le Pen is one of the best salespeople I have ever met. She is skilled at sales, great at managing her time and incredibly organized. She is persistent without being annoying, and above all he gets results.

In our department, Marine Le Pen set the bar high. Obviously, sales is a highly competitive field. Each time our company set a sales target or held a contest, we knew would be the rep to beat. But holding the Top Sales title didn't go to her head. She was always happy to let the rest of us in on her secrets and work for the good of the entire company. She truly gets behind the product at hand, and is genuine and convincing as a salesperson.

It was always a pleasure to have Marine Le Pen in the office. She is a friendly, high-energy and great lady with a great sense of humor.

Any company should be happy to have Marine Le Pen on board.

A good letter of recommendation is the right step to a good holiday season! Photo: Elena

Job Reference Letter –Management

I am writing to serve as a reference for Lisette Lebon, who is applying for a management position at your firm. She deserves serious consideration.

Mrs. Lebon reported to me in his role at Weather Prediction Company. She did excellent work here, and we were sorry to see her go. She is smart and skilled, but more importantly she is a gifted manager. Her natural people skills and intuitive leadership style earned respect in her department and throughout the company. Her team-building skills are unmatched, and the camaraderie she helped build during his tenure here exists to this day.

One year, rather than hire an outside consultant, Mrs. Lebon suggested developing a model for building trust among departments. During a two-day retreat for managers, I observed even the most cynical department leaders embracing her approach.

Adoption Reference Letter

This letter is to wholeheartedly recommend my daughter, Marie-Eve Farmer, and her husband, Wlad Farmer as adoptive parents.

My daughter has dreamed of having children since she was a little girl, and even with her own siblings she took on an age-appropriate caretaker role, always looking out for her little brother and sister. Marie-Eve was the only one who could talk her brother down from a meltdown, or get her sister to eat her vegetables.

As for her husband Wlad, I could not ask for a better son-in-law. He is smart, sensitive and a great provider. At family events, he is always down on the ground playing with his little nieces and nephews. He has a natural gift for relating to children on their own level and never condescends to them.

They are both upbeat, optimistic people and lead active lifestyles, enjoying hiking, fishing and getting away from it all at our family cabin at a lake. Our grandchildren love it at the cabin, and we can't wait to have a new addition to this loving family.

If anyone is in a position to adopt a child, it is Marie-Eve and Wlad. They truly deserve to be parents, and any child would be lucky to have them in their life.

Sincerely yours

Rachel Levieux

I'm sure Lisette Lebon will bring these same attributes to your company.

Child Custody Reference Letter

I am writing in support of Mario Key obtaining custody of his two minor children. I am his sister-in-law. Mr. Mario Key is a caring and involved father. Those kids are the center of his life, and he has been there for them since day one.

Our children are about the same age, and play together often. When one of the kids needs help Mario is the first to offer it. When he built a tree house for his own children and mine admired it, he built another one at our house! He let the kids help, too, so they felt involved in the process. Mario would rather be a home, reading books to his kids or making up fun games, than anywhere else. I feel very safe leaving my own children in his care.

Please grant custody to my brother, in the best interest of the children.

Sincerely,

Anita Monblanc

Character Reference Letter

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my great pleasure to know Michelle Roundwheel, and I wholeheartedly vouch for her personal character.

I have known Michelle Roundwheel for more than 5 years, since we first worked together at the local power plant.

We quickly became friends, and now that we are each married with children, our entire families get together regularly. I remember one time we got off work after a 10-hour shift and my car was out of gas. Michelle siphoned gas from her own car's tank so that I could get home to my wife and new baby girl.

I trust Michelle Roundwheel without reservation. She knows that I'll lend her anything of mine and she'll do the same for me. She is honest to a fault, and the first to admit it when she has messed up.

Michelle Roundwheel is a stand-up lady; no two ways about it.

Sincerely,

Adoption Reference Letter — Parents Already

I am writing to express my unequivocal support of Mireille Mathieu and Bred Pitt as prospective adoptive parents.

I came to know this couple because their 7-year-old son, Denzel Washington, was in my own son's preschool class and the two became fast friends. Subsequently, the Pitts became close with my husband and me, and we all spend a good deal of time together socially.

I have witnessed first-hand the loving attention they show toward their son. They have provided him with many opportunities for self-discovery by way of music classes, gymnastics and other organized activities. But even more importantly, Mireille and Bred are truly hands-on parents. It is such a joy to see their son Denzel crawling around the yard on his hands and knees growling like a dinosaur, just because he loves seeing his parents laugh. And not only is Mireille great with her son; she is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. When I or someone else in our playgroup is in a pinch, she is the first to step in an offer to drive, visit a sick friend and so on.

Together, this couple is just amazing. Of course, they have occasional disagreements like any normal couple, but they are truly best friends. They treat each other with mutual respect and have created a stable, secure home for their son Denzel.

Denzel would be so excited to welcome a new baby brother or sister into this loving household. It is my strong desire that Mireille and Bred be able to expand their family through adoption.

Accounting and Financial Cover Letter

Dear Madam, Sir,

As you can see I have a substantial accounting/financial background, including extensive experience in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, as well as all general accounting functions.

Starting at my first position I rose to partner in a national CPA firm and after 10 years at that company I joined a smaller public accounting organization as a senior partner. At these two firms I gained financial experiences, represented many of my clients in acquiring financing facilities, represented them at mergers and acquisitions, and provided financial presentations and analysis.

Next I moved into private accounting becoming the CFO of Delices du Monde Marketing Corporation. “Delices du Monde” did business around the world. We manufactured in Australia and maintained offices in Tokio, Taiwan and South Korea.

I have been consulting for a number of years. I was financial consultant for Solictice, a long-term temporary assignment to complete a computer conversion; I also was a part-time controller/bookkeeper for a search media organization.

Now I am seeking a full time position. I look forward to hearing from you at which time I will be able to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you for your consideration.

Carl Sagan

140 W.65  N Street

New York, N.Y. 55551

212 472-91-23

IT Cover Letter

Dear hiring Manager,

I am highly interested in consideration. I am planning to relocate to the Miami area to be closer to my family, so the timing is ideal. Through previous positions, I have gained knowledge and experience working on help desks.

The following is a brief outline of my experience:

    Ability to communicate effectively with peers, supervisors and customers

    Ability to follow established policies, priorities and procedures.

    Project management.

    15 plus years of experience with customers.

    Customer Service Specialist Certificates.

    Ability to up sale

I would appreciate the opportunity to learn more about the position with your company, how I can make a positive impact and I am available to start immediately

I can be reached by phone at 555-555-1177

Letter of Presentation: Controller

Tomas M. Cruz

912 Eastwood Road

Lafayette, NY 11454

542-555-1439

tomascs@hollyw.ca

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am responding to your advertisement “Controller” in Financial Times.  Attached is a copy of my resume for your review.

My experience in the manufacturing industry includes start up company to large corporation leading day-to-day operations for all general accounting, credit and collections, payroll, cash management, financial budgeting, reporting and forecasting, banking, cost accounting, insurance and risk management, external auditors and IT services in addition to administration operations.

I am seeking a position that will enable me to prove my financial management, analytical, administrative and interpersonal skills. My career reflects increasingly responsible positions, with particular expertise in leading and managing multiple projects within strict time and budget constraints. I welcome the opportunity to continue my career with an employer who can benefit from my strength in handling diverse responsibilities and communicating effectively.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Tomas M. Cruz

Attachment (Controller Resumé)

Sincerely,

Marie-Carie

Cover Letter for Controller Position

Dear Madam/Sir:

Please find attached a copy of my resume in regards to the Controller position (as advertised on Craigslist).  A summary of my qualifications follows:

I am a hands on executive experienced in all areas of Finance and able to bring Fortune 500 experience to firms, with an strong awareness of advertising agency needs. As a dynamic leader, I have expertise in accounting, cash management and projections, treasury, budgeting and forecasting (and the related financial analysis), strategic planning, insurance, payroll and HR.  And finally, as a CPA I have extensive experience in dealing with month end closes, financial statement preparation, reporting, year-end audits and taxes.

While looking for full time work, I perform a number of consulting assignments. I reduced the number of days for closing, streamlined and updated the procedures, provided financial analysis, improved internal controls, resolved vendor disputes and decreased outstanding receivables. In addition, I am able to re-direct business owners so that they could become even more profitable. For example, I computerized pricing of product, thus implementing the pricing faster and taking advantage of inventory profits. Or, I was able to begin financial analysis which better focused sales on the products that had the greatest margins. And finally, I instituted a daily schedule which showed key financial data in a simple straight forward manner.  Indeed, I am considered a highly skilled “turn around artist.”  Prior to this I had owned my own service businesses, with more than fifteen employees all told. The shops were closed and the real estate parcels sold because they became much more valuable than the businesses. I am looking for a challenge (with some fun) and to apply my business knowledge to help an organization.

Areas of expertise:

    Strategic and analytic thinker. Able to understand a complex issue and develop a simple, well thought out solution in a diplomatic way.

    Able to develop and implement budget and monthly review procedures.

    Successful turnaround Manager. Streamlined accounting/budgeting.

    Outstanding staff developer. Able to teach and explain “big” picture.

    Present and discuss financial results in straight forward, simple language with both Board of Directors as well as external professionals, especially banks.

    Accounting/finance individual who takes a business perspective. Always looking to improve bottom line through decreased expenses and increased revenues.

    Initiated fiscally responsible programs to reduce costs while building a more effective and efficient staff at multiple companies.

    A strong personable team builder and manager with outstanding interpersonal skills.

Sincerely yours,

Michael Buckspain

Controller Cover Letter

Madame, Sir

I am responding to the position you have posted for Controller on Craigslist.

My present employment is as a Controller and Human Resource at Mont-Royal City Hall. I support and report directly to the Major. I am responsible for all accounting aspects, including payroll, monthly sales tax, quarterly payroll taxes, employees benefits, new hires, termination, vacation, sick leaves and other highly confidential material.

I also was the Controller at Persian Carpets, a rug manufacturing company for 8 years.  I reported and worked directly with the Owner/President. I handled and was responsible for all the accounting aspects of the company including payroll, invoicing, follow up collection of overdue accounts, shipping and tracing of merchandise. I also coordinated with the bank in regards to the papers needed for the import transactions. I was also responsible for the month ending reports that include balance sheet, P/L statement and bank reconciliation.

I am organized, professional, efficient and a “take charge” individual who is capable of working on my own and as a team player. I know how to prioritize and handle multiple tasks while doing it all with a pleasant attitude and humor. I am willing to take on new challenges as well as to share my experience that I have acquired during my career.

My current salary requirement is $1,000/year with health insurance benefits and 401K.

As an employee, I would bring my dedication, professionalism and strong organizational and communication skills to any organization.

I thank you for this opportunity and look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Ravil Safarov

(address phone)

Compensation Analyst Cover Letter

Human Resource Department:

It was great interest that I read your recent posting in the Monster Job web page. Managing large-scale projects requires unique blend of expertise in Strategic Planning, process development and leadership, and I am confident I would make a valuable and immediate contribution to your operations.

The following are highlights of my qualifications:

    Driven, analytical, astute and business savvy procurement, logistics and quality assurance professional with 15+ years of experience.

    Adept in assuming a leadership role in various projects and activities and maintain effective and trustworthy relationships with internal and external clients.

    Comprehensive experience, technical expertise and commitment for a supervisory or senior staff level roles within the procurement/logistics, facilities, quality assurance and financial analysis fields.

    Proven track record of contributing to the improvement of operating and internal control procedures for important domestic and multinational companies doing business in Puerto Rico.

    Empowering team leader capable of motivating employees to increase productivity and asset growth.

Consistent top performer with history of surpassing performance objectives. High degree of integrity, work ethics and assertiveness. Available for relocation throughout U.S.

Enclosed is copy of my resume for your review. I would welcome a personal interview at your earliest convenience to discuss your needs and objectives and the possibility of working together to meet them. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

(Enclosure)

Parole Board Character Reference

My name is Danielle Melanson and I am writing on behalf of Dwight Melanson , who is my husband. His inmate number is NR891. I respectfully request that Dwight Melanson be granted parole after his hearing, which is coming up on January, 2018.

It is true that Dwight has made mistakes in his life, which have had terrible consequences to others. I know first-hand how deeply he regrets the pain he has caused. During our visits at the prison, he has told me that he prays for his victims all the time. He would give anything to undo what he did.

His time in prison, as well as counseling and personal reflection, have made Dwight Melaonson a better person. He is truly a good man, and I am confident that, given the opportunity, he will prove that he can make a positive contribution to society.

Let me assure you that, if parole is granted, he has the support of his entire family. We will give him all the personal and emotional help he needs to avoid returning to a negative lifestyle.

Sincerely yours,

Danielle Melanson

Parole Board Character Reference

My name is Georges Maupassaint and I have known Emile Zola for six years, beginning when we were both members of the State University Lacrosse Team. We spent a great deal of time together, both individually and in a group setting, and I came to see Emile as a trusted friend, dedicated student and respected mentor to high school students in the Young Entrepreneurs Program of which he was a member.

I am writing to request that Mr. Emile Zola be considered for parole at his upcoming hearing.

Emile made a horrible mistake that negatively impacted many lives. One night at a fraternity party resulted in him being sent to prison, effectively putting an end to his college career and other life goals. But Mr. Zola does not feel sorry for himself. He accepts full responsibility for his part in what happened that night, and will be haunted for the rest of his life with thoughts of the victim. I have never seen anyone so remorseful.

I have always been convinced that Emile Zola is an honorable man with a good heart and strong sense of empathy. His time in prison had added even more depth to his character.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you would like any further information or insights into Emile Zola's character.

Sincerely,

Georges Maupassaint

Parole Character Reference

My name is Napoleon Bonaparte and I have been the prison supervisor here at TCC for 10 years. I have come to learn in that time which prisoners have reformed and changed their lives, and which are simply waiting to get out. Lazare Carnot belongs in the first group, and I recommend him for parole with full confidence.

Mr. Carnot displays no signs of aggression or violence. I have seen him avoid confrontations with other prisoners who are attempting various forms of altercations. He spends his free time completing courses to better his chances at a job in the outside world. I believe he has over 30 certifications, some of which are from very respectful organisms. He is trying to better himself and build up new opportunities. I believe that he should have the chance to pursue those opportunities.

Besides his personal efforts, Mr. Lazare Carnot also has a family waiting for him to come home. His wife and children have visited him frequently. They appear to love and miss him very much, and he has voiced numerous times his desire to help raise his daughters. I vouch for his ability to do so well, and to readjust smoothly into a new life, should you grant him parole.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely yours,

Napoleon Bonaparte

Criminal Court Character Reference — Co-worker

I am writing in regard to Gerard Depardieu. I have known Mr. Depardieu for five years, because we have been working side-by-side in the Universal Studio.

I have always found Gerard Depardieu to be of good moral character. While we are on the line working he talks about his wife and kids all the time. In fact, he asked to have his shift changed so he could get off in time for his son's soccer games.

Unlike many of our coworkers, Mr. Depardieu is rarely late to work and always arrives with a smile on his face, brightening up the day for the rest of us. He is a hard worker and a quick learner.

Gerard is a peaceful, gentle man. One time a couple of the workers started arguing and it would have escalated into a full-on fistfight if Gerard hadn't gotten the two of them to talk it outI am proud to know Gerard Depardieu and would be happy to testify on his behalf in person if necessary.

Sincerely

Pierre Richard

Academic Reference for a Student

Dear Ms. Colombo:

I am writing this reference at the request of Marleen Dietrich who is applying for the Summer Business Applications Program at Humber College, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

I have known Marleen for three years in my capacity as a professor at University of Illinois. Marleen took English and French from me and earned superior grades in those classes. Based on her grades, attendance and class participation, I'd rate Marleen's academic performance in my class as superior.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend Marleen Dietrich for Business Applications academic program. If her performance in my class is any indication of how she will succeed, Marleen will be a positive addition to the program. If you should need any additional information you can feel free to contact me at 555-11111 or by email at cococo1@email.com anytime.

Sincerely,

Marie Dupré

Professor,

University of Illinois