Typically employers require three references – former colleagues or managers who can provide an up-front assessment of job skills, strengths, weaknesses, and accomplishments. Before leaving the company, an employee may request a written letter of recommendation from a manager or trusted coworker with whom the person had a good working rapport. Here are some reference letter samples to use as a guide.
Sample Letter of Recommendation from a Coworker
Coworkers who work side by side with an employee have a first-hand view of the person’s skills, strengths, and work ethic. Thus the letter of recommendation tells the employer about the candidate's communication skills, personality, and ability to follow through on key projects in a timely manner.
To Whom It May Concern,
I worked directly with Fran Smith at X Company for four years on various design projects. During this time she has shown exemplary initiative in creating a wide variety of design artwork including book covers, logos, posters, banners, window clings, advertisements, web graphics, and more. Her eye for design is first-rate as are her skills in Adobe Creative Suite and other leading design software.
Fran is recognized around the office as a genuine team player with a “can-do” attitude. Her strong work ethic and ability to quickly complete any job thrown at her has won the accolades of her superiors.
Fran is leaving to be closer to her family in another state, but she will be missed. I highly recommend Fran to any employer seeking a talented, motivated graphic designer.
Sincerely,
Ted Doe
(company)
(contact info)
Sample Reference Letter from a Supervisor
Because supervisors manage and oversee a team of employees, they gain the perspective of how well the person works on teams, his or her leadership skills, quality of work, and whether the worker follows directions and turns assignments in on time.
To Whom It May Concern,
Fran Smith has worked under my direct supervision as a graphic designer for five years at X Company. During this time, her job duties included the design of banners, book covers, logos, posters, and other corporate marketing graphics. She was responsible for internal as well as external clients.
Since Fran was hired on, I have seen her design skills steadily improve. She has won accolades from management and clients who consistently praise her for her pleasant demeanor, “can-do” attitude, and her ability to follow through in a timely manner. Her organizational skills and quality of work is outstanding, and her strong ability to work on project teams has garnered the respect of everyone around her.
Fran has been consistently ranked as one of our most valued employees on her annual employee performance reviews. I highly recommend her to any organization looking for a talented, hard-working graphic designer.
Sincerely,
Ted Doe, Art Director
(company)
(contact info)
Negative Letter of Recommendation
Not all reference letters come up roses. Because a glowing statement isn’t possible in every case, occasionally a person will be asked to provide a reference for an employee that is less than stellar. Here’s how to handle this situation diplomatically.
To Whom It May Concern,
Fran Smith worked under my supervision at X Company for three years. As a sales associate, she displayed enthusiasm and positivity. She was a team player and helped motivate fellow sales professionals. While her strengths tended to outweigh her weaknesses, she required frequent retraining in the areas of meeting sales quotas, closing deals, and communicating an effective sales pitch to potential clients.
Fran’s services were no longer needed by X Company. We wish her all the best in her future ventures.
Sincerely,
Ted Doe, Sales Manager
(company)
(contact info)
If a coworker or manager is asked to write a letter of recommendation, request a copy of the resume for additional information on the employee’s background and job skills. Then follow one of the sample reference letters for managers, coworkers, or for a negative letter (if required).
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