How to Write a Reference

A reference letter is something that can be instrumental in getting someone a job, an apartment, a college acceptance or other crucial milestones in life. Writing a reference letter correctly will give the letter more credibility and impact.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Mention the length of time you have known the person you are writing the reference for. Also discuss how you and this person got to know each other.

2. Talk about the person’s experience in doing whatever it is they want to do. If it’s a reference for an apartment, mention how well they maintain their living spaces and how they pay their rent on time. If it’s a reference letter for a job, mention the special skills they have that pertain to the job and how well they use those skills.

3. Write about how this person compares with other people who are trying to do the same thing. If the reference letter is for a job, this would be how the person could perform the job better than other people who have his qualifications.

4. Refer to your own qualifications. There should be some reason that you are qualified to make these positive judgments about the person you are give a reference to.

5. Include your name and a phone number and/or email address. If you give no contact information in case the recipient has questions, you may be viewed as trying to hide something. The recipient may even suspect that the letter is a fake.

6. Read the letter over several times and correct any mistakes. Bad grammar, spelling errors and typos will give you far less credibility than a well-written reference letter.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the letter professional- don't talk about the person's religion or their race or gender. None of those aspects should affect the recipient of the letter and they may be viewed as an attempt at special treatment.
• Don't fake a glowing reference letter. If the person has no redeeming qualities, politely state that you aren't the best person to write a reference letter and suggest someone else.