Free reference letter template
A warm, specific letter of recommendation for a colleague, employee or student applying for a job or program.
What's in this template
Letter of recommendation
[Your name] [Your title], [Organization] [Email] · [Phone] [Date]
To [Recipient name or "Whom it may concern"],
I am pleased to recommend [Candidate name] for [the position of Job title / admission to Program] at [Organization]. I have known [Candidate first name] for [N] years as their [manager, teacher, colleague] at [Organization], and they are among the most [quality] people I have worked with.
Strengths
During our time together, [Candidate first name] consistently showed:
- [Strength 1]: [Short example, such as leading a project that cut costs by 20%]
- [Strength 2]: [Short example with a concrete result]
- [Strength 3]: [Short example of how they work with others]
One moment stands out. [Tell a brief story that shows the candidate at their best, including what they did and what changed because of it.]
Why they are a strong fit
Based on what I know of [the role or program], I am confident [Candidate first name] will [expected contribution]. They learn quickly, take ownership and make the people around them better.
I recommend [Candidate first name] without reservation. Please feel free to contact me at [email] or [phone] if you would like more information.
Sincerely,
[Your name]