How to write a reference letter

It happens- you open your email and there is a request for a letter of reference. You know that a glowing recommendation letter can make or break a job application, but oftentimes when approached, you don't quite know what to say; here are some tips on how to write a reference letter, in case you ever receive such a request:

1. Start with a strong summary statement

2. Give detailed explanations and examples

3. Conclude with a comment on the person's potential.

For example: "I have known Jane Smith for three years. She was hired as a clerk-typist by ABC Corporation on April 4th, 2008, and promoted to administrative assitant on August 1, 2008. I found Jane to be an intelligent young woman with excellent work habits and a strong knowledge of compter software".

Give a detailed explanation with evidence and examples in one or two paragraphs. Show and don't tell.  Give some examples of how the individual demonstrated the positive skills and attributes you previewed in the opening.

For example: As an administrative assistant, Jane, handled routine duites such as time cards, ordering supplies and entering data. She  also screened calls for two of our marketing spcialist by answersing some basic questions. In addition, she has compiled statistics I needed for my monthly reports and conducted research with very little direction. I need only to give her general instructions: she is fairly self directed and can track down information quickly and summarize it accurately.

Give some concluding comments about the person's potential to be successful in his/her chosen career path based on your experience.

For example: "Jane has the potential either to become an executive or to move into staff work, especially once she completes her degree. I feel she will be an asset to any organization she choses to join" .

Finally..

Writing a reference letter doesn't have to be difficult. If you remember these three key parts of the letter, the summary preview, the detailed explanation, and the concluding statement you can enhance the application of a worthy candidate and improve his/her chances of success in a competetive job market.