Business Reference Letter Template
Have you been asked to write a reference letter for a current or former employee of your company? If so, make sure that you are clear on your company's policy with providing this type of reference letter before you start writing. Some companies allow managers and employees to provide thorough references, while others place specific restrictions on information that can be shared or require that all references be processed through the human resources department. If the task to write one of these letters falls on you and you need a little help to get started, use one of the sample letters provided here for guidance.
Sample Business Reference Letters
LoveToKnow has prepared two reference letter templates that you can download, edit and save. The first option is a compressive letter to use in circumstances where there are no restrictions on what you are allowed to disclose. The second letter is generally appropriate in situations where there are company-imposed limitations on the information you're allowed to provide.
1. Comprehensive Letter of Reference Sample
If you are able to write a comprehensive letter of reference without violating your company's policies, click on the image below to access a template that you can use as a starting point for the document you want to create. The forms is fully editable, so you are free to make any adjustments necessary to accurately convey the information that you want to share.
2. Sample Reference Letter for Strict Disclosure Policies
If your company has strict guidelines on what information you are allowed to provide in response to reference requests, the organization may have a specific reference form you are required to use. If not, click on the image below to download a general template for this kind of letter. However, be sure that you only provide information that is allowable within your company's policies. The form is fully editable, so you can remove or add information as needed.
Stick to the Facts When Writing References
When providing a reference letter, it is essential to include only information that is factual and truthful. Be very careful not to say something that is a matter of opinion that might keep someone from being considered for future employment, as that could result in legal problems for you and your company. It's just as important, however, to avoid making exaggerated positive statements about a person. If you build someone up too much and the person who receives the reference feels that you overstated things, the result could be a negative assessment of your judgment, which could possibly stand in your way in the future.
Stick with verifiable information that is completely truthful and you'll avoid both types of problems. If you don't honestly feel that you can give someone a positive reference, it's better to just decline the request than to write something potentially harmful or overinflated.
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