How to Write a Referral Letter for a Business

A good business-referral letter is honest yet promotional.

When recommending business services to an acquaintance through a letter of referral or recommendation, you're putting not only the company's reputation on the line, but also your own. A good business-referral letter is honest yet promotional, painting the recommended company or provider in a good light to the potential client.

Things You'll Need

• Word-processing software
• Paper
• Printer
• Recipient's mailing address

Instructions

1. Know to whom you're writing. The letter should be aimed toward the recipient's needs and goals to be of greatest service to all involved. A good focus will let the reader know that the letter (and business) truly relate to what they want.

2. Explain your relationship to the recommended business, whether it be as a client, supplier, mentor or general acquaintance. Transparency builds trust and respect in the letter writer's judgment.

3. Let the reader know why your opinion matters. Qualifications that matter include professional affiliations, work experience and any honors received in the past.

4. Point out why the business is the best option out there. Emphasize the top three or four impressive qualities of the company in question. Don't worry about length--the more information, the better.

5. Include pertinent contact information so the reader may call you for further information.

6. Proofread the letter carefully, checking for spelling, grammar and content. The quality of the letter will reflect on you and your company as well as the person the document is about.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid mentioning anything about race, age, gender, sexual affiliation or other points that could be perceived as discriminatory.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Write Express: Referral Letters
• BusinessBalls.com: Reference Letters