sample cover letter referral from friend

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Cover Letters

Cover Letter Referred by a Contact Examples

Cover Letters and Email Samples to Use for a Referral

One of the surest ways to grab an employer’s attention is to  get a referral for the job . In fact, PayScale research shows that one-third of workers received a referral for their current position. And no wonder—if you were a hiring manager, wouldn’t you rather hire someone who comes recommended than take a chance on a stranger?  

But simply getting a referral isn’t enough.

To maximize the benefits, you have to make sure that the hiring manager knows that you’ve been referred.

The best way to do that is to mention it in your cover letter. It’s the ideal place to share your referral’s name and the context you know them in.

Tips for Cover Letters That Get the Hiring Manager’s Attention

• Be professional.  Your cover letter should be written as a formal business letter, whether it’s sent as an attachment, via mail, or email. An attachment or mailed letter should begin with your contact information, the date, and the hiring manager’s contact information. An  email cover letter  should include the referral in the subject line of the message.
• Start on the right foot.  Begin your letter with a  salutation  followed by the hiring manager’s name. Mention your referral in the first paragraph of your cover letter, with a brief explanation of your connection.
• Show your interest.  Next, mention what interests you about the position, and why you’re qualified for the job. Let your passion show. Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the job.
• Say thank you.  Make sure you thank the person for their time and consideration, and use an appropriate  cover letter closing , followed by your signature (for a printed letter) and typed full name. In an email, your contact information would follow your typed name.
• Use cover letter samples.  Your cover letter may be the first thing the hiring manager sees so you need to make a good impression.  Review these cover letter samples  for a variety of scenarios including a follow-up letter, inquiry letters, job/industry specific sample cover letters, cold contact, and referral letter samples. Be sure to customize your letter for every job application.
• Proofread, edit, and test before sending.  Your final product should be typo-free and professionally formatted before you send it to the hiring team.

If you’re sending your cover letter via email, send yourself a test message before you email the employer.

That way, you can be sure that your formatting holds up in transmission and that there are no funny gaps or missing words in the final copy.

Cover Letter Example With a Referral

This is an example of a cover letter with a referral. Download the referral cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Cover Letter Example With a Referral (Text Version)

June Amour 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 june.armour@email.com

September 1, 2018

Raymond Maximillian Sales Director Rubymax, Inc. 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Maximillian,

I am writing to express my interest in the International Sales position open at Rubymax, Inc. I am very familiar with your products and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about how I could help increase your International presence.

My colleague Joe Smith recommended that I contact you directly about this position. Joe and I have worked closely in the industry for many years, and he thought that I would be a good match for Rubymax.

My ten years of experience marketing widgets internationally have given me an overall knowledge of the business, directly applicable to your interest in increasing sales abroad.

In my previous position as International Sales Rep with ZQR Company, I successfully increased our revenue in each of my territories by over 50 percent within my first year. In the five years I spent at ZQR, I helped to establish sales bases in an additional five countries, while continuing to increase revenue in all.

Please take the time to review my resume. I believe that I am an excellent candidate for the position you have advertised, and would very much like the opportunity to meet with you discuss what I have to offer Rubymax, Inc. I truly appreciate your consideration.

Sincerely yours,

Signature  (hard copy letter)

June Armour

Email Cover Letter With a Referral

Subject: Referred by Sloane Greene

Dear Ms. Future,

I am writing to you in regard to the position of billing manager that you have posted on your company website. I worked with Sloane Greene in the billing department of XYZ Enterprises for several years before taking a hiatus to raise my children.

When I mentioned I was returning to the workforce, she recommended I contact you about this position, as she felt that I would be an excellent fit for your organization.

At XYZ, I worked closely with Sloane to convert our billing system to handle the increase in sales volume the company was experiencing. I oversaw the seamless transition when our deliverables doubled in less than 6 months. I have successfully managed both small and large billing departments but am most comfortable in an environment like that at your company. I feel that my experience would be an asset to Bright Enterprises and would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you regarding the open position.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Beth Maple bethmaple@email.com 123-456-7890

Key Takeaways

If You Have a Referral, Say So Right Up Front: Include it in your cover letter and be sure to feature it in the first paragraph.

Use Cover Letters Samples to Guide Your Writing: But be sure to customize your cover letter for the specific job.

Be Professional: Use business-letter format and be sure to proofread your final draft before sending.

Say Thank You: Thank the hiring manager for their time and be sure to send thank-you notes to people who give you a referral, as well as to interviewers once you’ve met with them. 

PayScale. " The Impact of Job Referrals ." Accessed Feb. 25, 2020.

How To Include a Referral in Your Cover Letter?

Including a referral in your cover letter can help get your resume noticed by the hiring manager. It shows that you have a personal connection to someone who can vouch for your skills and abilities. A referral from a colleague or past employer can be a great way to get your foot in the door with a new company.

It’s been shown that referral hires are more likely to stick around at their new job, have higher performance ratings, and are often paid higher salaries than non-referral hires.

The benefits of including a referral in your job application are well worth the effort it takes to obtain one. In fact, according to a report from Jobvite, 59% of job seekers say referrals are their preferred way to find jobs online.

But how do you know whom to ask for a referral? And how do you include one in your cover letter? This guide will walk you through how to ask for and include a referral so you can land that interview.

What is a Referral Cover Letter?

A referral cover letter is a letter that you send to a potential employer with your resume. It is a recommendation from someone within the company that can act as a personal endorsement for you and your job application. The letter includes the name of someone who has referred you to the company. This can be a friend, family member, or professional contact. The referral cover letter is a way to get your foot in the door and stand out from the competition.

Why Should You Use A Referral in your Cover letter?

A referral gives you credibility, as it’s basically an insider saying that you are qualified for the position and would be a good fit. People trust recommendations from people they know, so this person essentially vouching for you makes a huge difference.

According to a recent study from the University of Minnesota, including a referral in your cover letter can dramatically increase your chances of getting an interview . The survey found that applicants who included referrals within their letters were interviewed at twice the rate of those who didn’t include referrals.

There are a few other reasons why you might want to include a referral in your cover letter.

• It can help you stand out from the crowd. When you have a personal connection to someone who can vouch for your skills, it shows that you’re serious about the job and that you’re willing to go the extra mile.
• It also makes it easier for the hiring manager to trust you since they can see that you have the endorsement of someone they know.
• If a referral is a “known name” in the industry, you’ll stand out from the crowd.
•  It can help you pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) screening software.
• Including a referral in your cover letter can also help you build relationships with the people you’re applying to work with. When you make a good impression on your referral, they might be more likely to refer you to other opportunities in the future.

Is name dropping in a cover letter OK?

Name-dropping does not come easily to everyone, but a referral cover letter is one place where it can work in your favor. Referrals are powerful because they involve an introduction from a known and respected individual. When you can name-drop a referral, it gives the hiring manager an additional reason to trust your qualifications and consider you for the job.

It’s important to be subtle when you’re name-dropping in your cover letter. You don’t want to come across as arrogant or entitled. Instead, focus on how your referral can vouch for your skills and abilities.

How to Ask for a Referral?

You have spent a lot of time perfecting your resume and tweaking your cover letter to match the job description. You have done everything you can think of to make sure that when recruiters read your documents they will be impressed by what they see, but there is one more thing that you need to consider: who are you going to ask for a referral?

1) Choose Professional Contacts over Personal:

When you can, choose someone who is a professional contact, not a personal one. You want to make sure that whoever you ask to be your referral has experience working with you or working with your work, so they can speak about the kind of contributions you make and the results those contributions produce.

2) Check with your Contact before dropping their name in a Cover letter:

Whoever it is, definitely check in with them before moving forward. At the very least, give them a heads up so they aren’t caught off guard if indeed that company does call them for any reason. Ideally, you will ask them if they would be comfortable giving you a referral and then send them a copy of your resume and cover letter so they can be prepared for what to expect if/when called upon by the company.

3) Search through Networking Platforms:

If you don’t have any connections in the company for the job you are applying for then you can use a mutual contact. A mutual contact is someone that you know and the hiring manager knows. You can do this by searching for them on LinkedIn, search through Facebook, Company Website other Professional Forums the contact may be present.

4) Reach out to them via Email:

The best way to ask for a referral is by email . You should explain why you are contacting them and why you want them to refer you, if possible. For example: “I worked on your team last year and our group won an award.” It’s also important to thank them for their time.

5) Apply via an employee referral program?

If you’re applying to a large company, they may have an employee referral program. This is a program where employees can refer candidates for open positions within the company. If you’re lucky enough to know someone who works for the company, be sure to ask them if they can refer you for a position as it is beneficial for both of you.

How To Include A Referral In Your Cover Letter?

When you’re including a referral in your cover letter, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

1) Include the Referral Information in Your Opening Paragraph

One way to include a referral in your cover letter is to use it as part of your opening paragraph.

2) Explain How they know you

The person who referred you will likely have given the hiring manager some context about how they know you. But if they haven’t, or if your connection is weak (you met them once at an event), it’s important to explain how you know each other.

3) Why are they providing this Recommendation

Include a few sentences about why they are qualified to speak about you. For example, if a former manager is recommending you for a position, mention this fact, as well as what your relationship has been like and how long they have known you.

Here’s an example of an introductory paragraph with a referral :

“I am interested in the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. I was referred to the position by my friend, Sarah, who knows someone at XYZ Company. Sarah has told me great things about the company and she thinks I would be a perfect fit for the position. I have attached my resume and the job listing to this email. I would appreciate if you could keep me in mind for the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Asking for a referral can help you get your resume noticed and land the job you want. Just be sure to follow these tips and examples so that you can do it correctly.

Examples of adding a referral to your cover letter:

Referral cover letters are structured similarly to application cover letters, but they usually include an additional paragraph that explains how you were referred to the position by someone in your network. Below, you’ll find examples of referral cover letters that indicates who the applicant was referred by, along with tips for writing a referral cover letter sample.

**Adding a referral in the body of your cover letter:**

“Dear Ms. [last name], [Referral source] recommended I reach out to you about the position of [job title]. I have a great deal of experience [briefly describe your relevant experience] and would love to work with you and your team. I am available for an interview at any time that is convenient for you, and I can be reached by phone at [your phone number], or by email at [your email address].”

In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you should mention a mutual connection or referral who suggested that you reach out. Mentioning this person (or people) upfront will give you an instant connection with the hiring manager.

“I’m reaching out because [Name of Mutual Acquaintance] suggested I connect with you. She knew me from my work with [Company Name or Project], and she mentioned that you’re looking for someone to fill your opening for a [Name of Position].- “I am interested in the position of Social Media Manager at GHI company. I was referred to this position by my friend, Tina, who is the Social Media Manager at GHI company.”

Mention the referral in your first paragraph. Use words like “encouraged,” “recommended” or “referred.”

“I was encouraged by [referrer’s name] to apply for the [position name] role at [company name].”

“I was referred by [referrer’s name] to apply for the [position name] role at [company name]. They told me that you’re looking for a [skill-set/role-specific knowledge].”

“Dear [Name],

I am writing to apply for the position of [position] at [company]. I was referred to the role by my friend and former colleague, [Name], who is currently working in the [department] at [Company]. I understand you are currently seeking candidates to fill this position.

I have been following company developments for several years, and I believe that my experience as a [job title] would be beneficial to your team.”

Referral Cover Letter Sample (Text Version)

Dear [Name],

I am reaching out to you in regard to the [job title] position with [Company name]. I believe my experience in [industry] and role as a [role title] is a good match for this position.

[Name of contact, mutual friend, or colleague] recommended that I contact you and submit my resume because they know I am interested in finding a new opportunity with an outstanding company such as yours. I have been working in [industry] for the last [x years/months], and have developed many of the skills necessary for the role of [job title].

I look forward to hearing from you to discuss how my experience fits your needs. Please feel free to reach me at [phone number] or via email at [email address]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your name]

Referral Cover Letter Email

Dear [Recruiter Name]

I’m writing to apply for the [position name] position advertised on LinkedIn. I met [name] at an event last month, and they suggested I reach out to you directly. We discussed my background in [field], and how it would make me a great fit for this role.

If you have any questions about my experience or candidacy, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I’ll follow up with you next week to see if you need any additional information from me, or if we can arrange a time for us to talk.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Email Subject Line for sending a Referral Cover Letter :

• Referral from [Kevin Rogers – VP Marketing] for Marketing Manager Position.
• [Kevin Rogers – VP Marketing] referred me to you for the [Marketing Manager] position.

Tips for Writing a Referral Cover Letter

• Including a referral at the top of your cover letter can help you get noticed by hiring managers and make it more likely that you’ll be granted an interview.
• Make sure to mention your referral’s name and how you know them, such as “I worked with [name] at [company].”
• Include a few sentences about why your referral thinks you’d be a good fit for the role and ask if they’d be willing to provide a reference if needed.
• Don’t forget to say “thank you” to your reader and let them know how they can reach out to learn more about you!.

Related Resume & Cover Letter Articles

How to Add a Referral in a Cover Letter

Quick Navigation:

What is a cover letter referral?

How to include a referral in your cover letter, cover letter referral examples.

A referral is someone who recommends you for a particular job. Colleagues, people employed by the hiring company and former teachers can all be appropriate referrals. With their permission, you can mention the name of a referral in your cover letter. When you add a referral to your cover letter, it can make a positive first impression and help move your application ahead in the hiring process.

Add your referral to your cover letter’s introduction. You should catch the hiring manager’s attention, and a referral is a great way to do this. This also creates an instant personal connection between you and the company. 

Follow these steps to include a referral in your cover letter:

1. First, ask for your referral’s approval

You must get approval before adding that individual’s name to your cover letter. By doing so, you are confirming that they are happy to recommend you for the job.

If they tell you about the position, you have an opportunity to ask whether you can use their name as a referral. If you see a job posting first, call them and ask whether they would mind giving you a referral. Discuss the position, the company and why your contact thinks you are a good candidate. Your referral is staking their reputation on you, so be sure to thank them.

2. Next, mention the referral by name

Mention your referral by their full name. This takes away any confusion about who they are. If their name is common, you might also add details about how the hiring manager may know them. Do not use their nickname, even if they are commonly known by this. Double-check the spelling of their first and last name.

3. Then, explain your connection to your referral

Note whether your referral is a former or current colleague or a person connected to you in some other way. Explaining your connection gives the hiring manager some context for the referral.

4. Next, describe why the person referred you

Explain why your referral feels you are suitable for the position. This provides an opportunity to outline your strengths. If you have worked with your referral before, provide a brief explanation of this working relationship. If your referral is a former teacher, you can note the relevant course. Mention any experiences or skills your referral witnessed that might be applicable to the position. If this person works at the hiring company, note any qualities they think you have that would suit the business culture.

5. Last, send a copy of your cover letter to your referral

It is a good idea to send a copy of your cover letter to your referral. When they know exactly what you have written, they will not be surprised by anything the hiring manager says to them about your application or relationship. It will also help your referral prepare for what they might want to say if the hiring manager has any follow-up questions for them.

Every referral is different, as it reflects your personal relationship with that particular contact. However, the following cover letter referral examples can help you write your own:

Dear Ms. Gutherson,

I was excited to hear about the opening in your engineering department from one of your lead engineers, Dale Forrest. Before joining your company, Dale worked with me for five years on the engineering team at Practical Software Solutions. During that time, Dale praised me for my attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills. Dale said he felt those skills would make me an excellent addition to your engineering team.

Dear Mr. Lane,

Your receptionist Kelly Price suggested I contact you about your vacant social worker position. I met Kelly last year when she began volunteering with me at a local soup kitchen, Soul Food. Working closely together allowed her to see my ability to connect with others and my compassion for people with financial hardships and mental health difficulties.

Dear Ms. Nelson,

I was thrilled to hear about the vacant position on your design team from Hayley Saunders. Hayley and I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at the University of Central Oklahoma together in 2003 and have remained close friends. She felt my creativity and 10 years’ experience working as a designer in the media industry would make me a natural fit for the role with you at Parent and Baby Monthly Magazine.

Cover Letter With a Referral From an Employee Example

• Letters & Emails
• Skills & Keywords
• Salary & Benefits
• Job Listings
• Job Interviews
• Cover Letters
• Career Advice
• Work-From-Home Jobs
• Internships
• The Power of Employee Referrals
• Write a Cover Letter With a Referral
• Referral Cover Letter Template
• Sample Referral Cover Letter

The saying goes, "It's not what you know, but who you know"—and when it comes to getting hired, it's true. Get an employee referral, and you may have an easier time catching the hiring manager's attention.

Many companies reward their employees for referring job candidates. The fact is that hiring via referral is  cheaper, faster, and more effective  than hiring through job sites or recruiting.  

Candidates who come recommended are often better qualified, more loyal, and a better fit for the team.

It makes sense: if you were the hiring manager, would you rather interview a candidate with no connection to the company or one that comes recommended by a current employee in good standing?

The latter person is more likely to know what it's like to work for the company – plus, the employee who referred them probably understands that their reputation is at stake. Most likely, they'd avoid referring someone who was less than qualified.

The Power of Using Employee Referrals in Your Cover Letter

According to data from Jobvite, there are significant advantages for employees who land their jobs through referral. Consider:  

• 40% of referred applicants receive a job offer and they comprise only 7% of potential candidates.
• Want to get to work in a hurry? Referred candidates start sooner than those who come in through other channels. Per this data, employees who come in via referral start their new positions after 29 days on average, compared with 39 - 55 days through job boards.
• Referred employees have greater job satisfaction, according to Jobvite, and show it by staying put: 47% stay longer than three years.

How to Write a Cover Letter Mentioning an Employee Referral

• Ask for a referral.  This might seem obvious—of course, you'll ask for a referral before you name-drop a current employee in your letter! But it's important that your connection is clued in before you send your cover letter. Bottom line, you want them to be prepared to sing your praises when the hiring manager asks for their opinion. Also: there's always the chance that they'll say no, or that they'll advise you not to apply, for reasons that only an insider would know.)
• Give your referrer the details.  Speaking of singing your praises, your contact can only do that if you let them know which job you're applying for. Don't assume that just because they work at the organization, they'll know what the job entails. Share the job description, and match the requirements to your qualifications. This will give them some talking points to keep in their back pocket, in case they're asked about you.
• Provide a copy of the cover letter.  Forward your email or give your contact a physical copy of your cover letter, for their reference.
• Say thank you.  Whether the employee is writing a referral letter or merely agreeing to be included in your cover letter, it's important to say thank you. Send a  thank-you note or email  to let them know that you appreciate their help. They'll appreciate the gesture, and it will strengthen your connection.

Employee Referral Cover Letter Template

Download the employee referral cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) and review more examples.

Sample Employee Referral Cover Letter (Text Version)

Stephanie Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 stephanie.applicant@email.com 

September 1, 2018 

Laurel Lee Director, Human Resources Sunnyside Group Home 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

 Dear Ms. Lee,

I am writing in reference to the position of Youth Counselor at the Sunnyside Group Home. I have the pleasure of being acquainted with one of the Counselors on your staff, Eleanor Seville. Eleanor and I did our undergraduate work together at Sunnyville University and have been in touch professionally and personally since then. She let me know about the open position and recommended that I contact you. 

I have been working with at-risk youths for 15 years, and have found the experience extremely rewarding. I have counseled young people with a variety of challenges, including family situations, drug use, eating disorders and behavioral issues. My experience makes me well suited to help the residents at Sunnyside learn and grow in a protected environment.

While I have experience in working with all ages, I believe that the adolescent population at your facility would benefit from the knowledge I gained during the past five years while working in Student Services at Sunnyville High School. I was recognized by the District as "Outstanding Teen Leader 2018" for the After-School Job Mentoring program I developed and implemented with the cooperation of several local businesses.

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss what I have to bring to the position at Sunnyside. Thank you for reviewing my attached resume.

Stephanie Applicant

• Professional Letter and Email Examples
• Types of Professional Business Letters
• Sample Email Message Formats for Job Searching
• Appreciation Email Samples
• Business Thank-You Letter Examples
• Sample Professional Letter Formats
• Thank-You and Appreciation Quotes for Letters and Emails
• Farewell Letter Samples and Writing Tips
• Career Networking Email and Letter Examples
• Thank-You Letters for Recommendations and References
• Thank-You Letter for a Job Referral Examples and Tips
• Thank You Letter for a Job Lead Examples
• Resume Skills for High School Students With Examples
• Sample Thank-You Letter for Providing an Introduction
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Summer Job Thank-You Letter Sample

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

How To Write A Reference Letter For A Friend (With Examples)

• Personal Reference Letter
• Recommendation Letter for Employment
• Professional Reference Letter
• Reference Letter Template
• Reference Letter for a Friend
• Professional References
• List Of References
• Recommendation Letter From Employer
• Academic Reference Letter
• Business Reference Letter
• Recommendation Letter for a Promotion
• Character Reference Letter
• Reference From A Manager

Find a Job You Really Want In

Summary. To write a reference letter for a friend, you should first state your relationship with your friend and how long you have known them. In the body of your letter, you should focus on your friends strengths and accomplishments and why they would b the best person for the position.

If a friend ever asks you for a reference letter and you are unsure if you are even able to write one for them, chances are you can.

This article will give you an overview of how to write a glowing reference letter for your friend and provide examples of how to format them.

Key Takeaways:

A good reference letter should leave a positive impression on the employer, and allow them to understand what makes your friend special. If you do that, the letter will be a great help to your friend, and bring them one step closer to getting that shiny new position.

The letter should focus more on what makes them an ideal worker, rather than the professional experience they’ve already mentioned in their own application materials.

When writing the letter, it is important to keep the letter professional and without bias.

What Is a Letter of Recommendation for a Friend?

How to format your letter of recommendation for a friend, what to include in your letter of recommendation for a friend, example reference letters for a friend, tips for your recommendation letter for a friend, recommendation letter for a friend faq, final thoughts.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

A letter of recommendation for a friend is a document used to help an individual land a job, gain admittance to a school, or become a member of a private organization. It can also be called a character reference or a personal reference.

A personal recommendation for a friend may not be as powerful as a professional reference, but it’s certainly better than no reference and it can still round out a job application that already has one or two professional references.

By definition, a personal recommendation comes from an individual who has never worked with the referee in a professional setting. Regardless, not all professional attributes are reserved for purely professional settings.

Which friends can you write a reference letter for?

In general, it’s difficult to write a reference letter for a friend unless you have a second relationship with them. Let’s take a look at relationships can help you write a stronger character reference:

Co-volunteer

Current or former classmate

Coach, mentor , or mentee

Family friend whom you’ve known a long time

Fellow member of an organization, club, or extracurricular group

With these additional relationships come more opportunities to talk about your friend’s skills in action. After all, it’s pretty hard to sing your buddy’s praises if all you’ve done together is watch movies and play video games.

Format your reference letter. As with other job-related letters, such as a cover letter , you will include a heading. You should include your name and address, as well as the company’s name and address.

Here is an example of a heading:

Robert Sperling 888 Lyne St. Hillsburg, KY, 01230 September 16th, 2020 Sarah Parker History Museum 742 Dru Rd. Hillsburg, KY, 01230 Dear Ms. Parker,

Note that this only applies if you’re mailing a physical letter; if you’re emailing it, you can leave off the recipient’s contact information and include yours after your signature rather than as part of the header.

If you don’t know employers name. It is very common not to. If you don’t know the potential employer’s name, simply address the letter “ To Whom It May Concern .”

While this phrase is a big no-no for job-seekers themselves, it’s fine for recommendation letters. After all, your friend may want to keep your reference letter in their back pocket for a number of job opportunities down the line, so it’s understandable to leave your greeting vague.

However, if your friend wants a recommendation letter for a specific opportunity, your friend should do your best to find the hiring manager or recruiter’s name so that you can address your letter appropriately. Make sure to use an appropriate title.

Never assume. You shouldn’t assume women are married, so it’s good to favor Ms. over Mrs. In addition, if you know they have a doctorate or Ph.D., you should use the title Dr.

Dear Ms. Burns, Dear Dr. Jones, Dear Rev. Baker ,

Length of letter. Now that you know how to address your letter, it’s also important to understand what employers are looking for in your 3-4 paragraphs. Keep in mind that most employers prefer a short reference letter.

Therefore, your letter shouldn’t exceed a page , and ideally, should be around half a page. That being said, you should focus on writing only what you believe will have the most impact on getting your friend hired.

Your first paragraph serves as an introduction, your second serves as the body, and the third is your conclusion and contact information.

Closing. Once you are finished you can end the letter with “Sincerely”, followed by your name.

Now that you understand formatting, it’s time to discuss the content of your letter. Remember that while templates can assist in writing a reference letter, it’s still important that a majority of your letter is in your own words. Do your best to make it feel personal, so the employer truly believes that you can speak for your friend.

Opening paragraph. As mentioned previously, your first paragraph is your introduction. Therefore, you should state your relationship with your friend, and why that relationship is valid in the context of the letter.

You may want to include how long you’ve known your friend, especially if it’s a long period of time, so the employer will believe that you know them on a personal level.

Here is an example of an introductory paragraph:

I’m pleased to recommend Heather Ingrid for the Government position at Town Hall. I have known Heather for over a decade now, and know that she is a passionate, caring person who’s organized several community events throughout her life. With that in mind, I know she is highly qualified for a position at Town Hall.

As you can see, the first paragraph should focus on stating what the letter is for, and what your relation is to your friend.

Body paragraph(s). Next, your body paragraph should focus on your friend’s strengths and accomplishments. What are some positive things about their personality or work ethic? Do they have defining credentials such as a previous job, internship , community service, or college experience? These are all things to include in your body paragraph.

Generally speaking, a reference letter will focus more on complimentary fluff, rather than your friend’s credentials. After all, you’re trying to sell their personality, work ethic, etc. Some examples of complimentary words are: hardworking, diligent, passionate, motivated, leader , cooperative, patient, and intelligent.

With that in mind, here is an example of a body paragraph:

This year Willow graduated with her Graphic Design degree from Arts University, and as her friend I know it was a tireless effort for her. When in class she worked diligently on her pieces and often finished before the rest of us. Yet, she never sacrificed the quality of her work, as she carefully executed every detail. Willow has a truly creative mind, and would produce amazing artwork for your company.”

Closing paragraph. Finally, your last paragraph is rather simple, as it should reiterate that you are happy to recommend your friend for the job, and contain your contact information.

Here is an example:

Without hesitation, I am happy to recommend James for this position, as I know he would be an amazing asset to your team. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or (222) 222-2222. Sincerely, Jerry Fitz

Now that you’ve seen all the pieces of a reference letter, it’s time to assemble them to get a full picture. Here are a few sample reference letters for you to use:

Letter of Recommendation for a Friend Example

Alice Newberry 20 Williams St. Cheshire, CO, 77777 September 8th, 2020 JP Bank 38 Newgrange Rd. Cheshire, CO, 77777 To Whom It May Concern, I’m pleased to recommend Josh Parker for the Teller position at JP Bank. I have known Josh for over half a decade now, and this summer I had the privilege of working with Josh in our BD Bank Graduate Program, where I watched him excel at his work. With that in mind, I know he is highly qualified for a position at your bank. In college Josh often tutored me in many of our classes, as the way he communicates makes difficult topics easy to understand. He’s intelligent and hardworking, so it’s not surprising that he graduated at the top of his class. In addition to that, he has prior experience working in customer service at Finance Co., and took part in an accounting internship at Morgan Accounting. Without hesitation, I am happy to recommend Josh for this position, as I know he would be an incredible asset to your company. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or (111) 111-1111. Sincerely, Alice Newberry

Molly Smith 433 Snape Rd. Froon, NH, 01230 September 8th, 2020 Rune National Park 833 Rune Rd. Marigold, TX, 10987 To Whom It May Concern, I’m writing to recommend Arthur Grant for the Park Ranger position at Rune National Park. I have known Arthur for nearly a decade now, and can easily say that he is highly qualified for a position at your park. In high school, he did environmental work for our local school districts, and in college, he created an experimental program that aimed to get more kids involved with our National Parks. As a child in our hometown near the White Mountains, Arthur always talked about how much he wanted to visit Rune National Park. He’s poured his heart and soul into his education, and he has such a passion for your park in particular. On top of that, he’s a hardworking and intelligent young man, who has a bright attitude and eagerness I’ve seldom seen elsewhere. Without hesitation, I am happy to recommend Arthur for this position, as I know he would be an amazing asset to your team. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or (555) 555-5555. Sincerely, Molly Smith

Be clear on expectations. When your friend approaches to ask for a recommendation letter, be certain that they’re asking you to write in a personal capacity rather than a professional one. If you’ve never worked with this friend in a professional setting, it’s best to decline a request to serve as a professional reference.

Make sure they know that you’ll be serving as a character reference instead. Also, make sure that you’re a quality choice for this sort of letter.

Remember our tip from above: if you have a second relationship with this individual outside of pure friendship (e.g., classmates, co-volunteers, etc.), then you’ll be able to write a much stronger letter. If you don’t, let your friend know that you might not make the best choice.

Get details about the job opportunity. If your friend is asking you to write a recommendation letter for a specific opportunity, you should learn everything you can about it.

Ask what your friend wants. The easiest way to figure out what to write is to simply ask your friend precisely what they’d like you to highlight. Don’t lie, but do ask what your friends’ long-term career goals are and why they’re interested in this position.

Use examples. Simply rattling off a list of positive adjectives is not going to cut it. You need to give the hiring manager a bit of context with real-world examples of when you’ve seen your friend put their soft skills or winning personality to work.

Can you write a reference letter for a friend?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to write a reference letter for a friend if you believe they are the best candidate for the position. You should state your relationship with your friend and why the relationship is valid in the context of the letter. Be sure to focus on your friends strengths, accomplishments and any other positive things that would make them the best fit for the position.

Who should not write a letter of recommendation?

Avoid asking family members to write a letter of recommendation. Family and friends can often seem biased in their letter so it’s best not to use them if possible. If you do, make sure they are unbiased in their writing and they include why you are the best candidate without any personal reasons.

Can a letter of reference letter hurt you?

Yes, a negative reference letter can actually hurt your chances of landing a job. When choosing who writes your letter of recommendation or reference letter, be sure to find someone who is a reliable source to write about your accomplishments. Avoid getting any letters from someone who does not know you well or personally.

Remember, keep your letter brief and focus on personalizing it to fit your friend’s needs. Make sure you make it clear to the potential employer that you really know your friend, and try your best to make them seem like a memorable, positive person for the employer to look forward to working with.

Keeping all these tips and formatting rules in mind, you’re ready to get started on a glowing reference letter for your friend!

Penn State – Sample Short Recommendation Letters

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Jack Flynn is a writer for Zippia. In his professional career he’s written over 100 research papers, articles and blog posts. Some of his most popular published works include his writing about economic terms and research into job classifications. Jack received his BS from Hampshire College.

Recent Job Searches

• Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
• Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
• Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
• Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
• Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
• Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

Employment Contract: What It Is And Examples

10 Thank You Letter Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

How To Use Best Regards And Its Variations (With Examples)

How To Ask For A Letter Of Recommendation

• Career Advice >
• Post Interview >
• Reference Letter For A Friend

Sample Letter Hub

Reference Letter To Immigration For Friend ( 5 Samples )

By Sikandar Ali

February 17, 2024

Are you looking to help a friend with their immigration process? One way to do so is by providing a reference letter to immigration.

This letter serves as a recommendation for your friend, highlighting their character, skills, and achievements. It can help strengthen their case and increase their chances of being approved for a visa or residency.

In this blog article, we will provide you with templates, examples, and samples of reference letters to immigration for a friend.

We understand that writing a letter can be daunting, especially if you are not familiar with the format or content required.

Our goal is to make it easy for you to write a letter that accurately reflects your friend’s strengths and accomplishments.

Our samples will cover various scenarios, such as employment, education, and personal relationships.

We hope that by providing these resources, we can help you support your friend in their immigration journey. Let’s get started!

Reference Letter To Immigration For Friend

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

Immigration Officer

[Immigration Office Address]

Subject: Reference Letter for [Friend’s Full Name]

Dear Immigration Officer,

I am writing this letter to provide a reference for my dear friend, [Friend’s Full Name]. I have known [Friend’s Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to [his/her] character, integrity, and positive contributions to our community.

[Friend’s Full Name] is a responsible, hardworking, and law-abiding individual. [He/She] has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to [his/her] work and responsibilities. [His/Her] honesty, reliability, and dedication make [him/her] a trustworthy person.

As a friend, I have had the pleasure of witnessing [Friend’s Name]’s positive impact on those around [him/her]. [He/She] is known for [his/her] kindness, compassion, and willingness to assist others. [Friend’s Name] is an upstanding member of our community who actively contributes to [his/her] surroundings.

I believe that [Friend’s Full Name] possesses the qualities that make [him/her] a valuable addition to any community. [He/She] has a genuine desire to contribute positively to society and to abide by the laws and regulations of [Country Name].

If you require any further information or clarification, please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number]. I am more than willing to provide additional details to support [Friend’s Name]’s immigration application.

Thank you for considering my recommendation. I am confident that [Friend’s Full Name] will be a positive and law-abiding resident of [Country Name].

[Your Full Name]

You can use our Tool below to create a custom Reference Letter To Immigration For Friend

Just fill the info below and generate the letter in seconds.

Reference Letter Generator

Download Button for file in Doc

Download Button for file in PDF

Letter Of Good Character For Immigration

Subject: Letter of Good Character for Immigration – [Applicant’s Full Name]

I am writing this letter to attest to the good character of [Applicant’s Full Name]. I have known [him/her] for [Number of Years] and can confidently state that [he/she] is a person of high moral standing and integrity.

[Applicant’s Full Name] has consistently demonstrated honesty, responsibility, and a strong sense of duty in [his/her] personal and professional life. [He/She] is a law-abiding citizen who respects and adheres to the laws and regulations of [Country Name].

Throughout our association, I have observed [Applicant’s Name]’s positive contributions to our community. [He/She] actively participates in [volunteer work, community events, etc.] and strives to make a positive impact on those around [him/her]. [Applicant’s Full Name] is known for [his/her] kindness, compassion, and willingness to help others.

I am confident that [Applicant’s Full Name] will continue to uphold these values and contribute positively to [Country Name]. [He/She] possesses the qualities that make [him/her] a valuable and respectable member of any community.

If you require any further information or clarification, please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number]. I am more than willing to provide additional details to support [Applicant’s Name]’s immigration application.

Thank you for considering my testimonial. I am optimistic that [Applicant’s Full Name] will be a law-abiding and contributing member of [Country Name].

Immigration Letter For A Friend

Subject: Immigration Letter for [Friend’s Full Name]

I am writing this letter in support of my dear friend, [Friend’s Full Name], who is seeking immigration to [Country Name]. I have known [him/her] for [Number of Years] and can attest to [his/her] character, integrity, and dedication.

[Friend’s Full Name] is a person of high moral standing, with a strong sense of responsibility and respect for the laws and regulations of [Country Name]. [He/She] has always conducted [himself/herself] with honesty and sincerity, making [him/her] a valuable member of our community.

Throughout our friendship, I have witnessed [Friend’s Name]’s commitment to contributing positively to society. [He/She] actively participates in [volunteer work, community initiatives, etc.] and is always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

I believe that [Friend’s Full Name] will continue to be a law-abiding and contributing member of [Country Name]. [His/Her] skills, talents, and dedication make [him/her] an asset to any community [he/she] becomes a part of.

If you require any additional information or clarification, please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number]. I am more than willing to provide any necessary details to support [Friend’s Name]’s immigration application.

Thank you for considering my testimonial. I am confident that [Friend’s Full Name] will be a positive and productive member of [Country Name].

Immigration Letter Of Recommendation For Friend

Subject: Letter of Recommendation for [Friend’s Full Name]

I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend my friend, [Friend’s Full Name], for immigration to [Country Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [him/her] for [Number of Years], and I can attest to [his/her] exceptional character, work ethic, and suitability for immigration.

[Friend’s Full Name] is an individual of great integrity and moral standing. [He/She] is dedicated, hardworking, and possesses the qualities that would make [him/her] an asset to [Country Name]. [His/Her] commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in every aspect of [his/her] life.

During our time together, I have witnessed [Friend’s Name]’s perseverance, adaptability, and willingness to contribute positively to [his/her] community. [He/She] is a responsible and law-abiding citizen who respects and values the principles of [Country Name].

I am confident that [Friend’s Full Name] will integrate seamlessly into [Country Name]’s society and contribute significantly to [his/her] chosen field. [His/Her] skills, knowledge, and personal qualities make [him/her] an excellent candidate for immigration, and I wholeheartedly support [his/her] application.

If you require any further information or clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number]. I am more than willing to provide additional details to support [Friend’s Name]’s immigration journey.

Thank you for considering my recommendation. I believe that [Friend’s Full Name] will be a valuable and contributing member of [Country Name].

Reference Letter For Immigration From Employer

[Your Company Name]

[Company Address]

Subject: Reference Letter for [Employee’s Full Name]

I am writing to express my strong support for [Employee’s Full Name]’s application for immigration to [Country Name]. [He/She] has been an invaluable member of our team at [Your Company Name] and has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills, dedication, and professionalism.

[Employee’s Full Name] has been employed with [Your Company Name] since [Start Date] as a [Employee’s Position]. In [his/her] time here, [he/she] has exhibited a remarkable ability to [mention key skills and achievements]. [He/She] has played a crucial role in [specific projects or initiatives] and has shown a strong commitment to [his/her] work.

Not only does [Employee’s Full Name] possess the necessary technical skills, but [he/she] also has a commendable work ethic. [He/She] is a team player, communicates effectively, and has a positive impact on the workplace environment.

I am confident that [Employee’s Full Name] will contribute positively to [Country Name] and become a valuable asset in [his/her] chosen field. [He/She] has proven to be a responsible and dedicated individual, and I believe that [his/her] skills and experience will be an excellent match for the opportunities in [Country Name].

If you require any further information or clarification, please feel free to contact me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number]. I am more than willing to provide additional details to support [Employee’s Name]’s immigration application.

Thank you for considering my recommendation. I believe that [Employee’s Full Name] will make a positive contribution to [Country Name] and continue to excel in [his/her] professional journey.

[Your Position]

How to Write a Reference Letter to Immigration for a Friend

If you have a friend who is applying for immigration, you may be asked to write a reference letter to support their application. This letter can play a crucial role in the success of their application, so it’s important to take the time to write it carefully. Here are some tips to help you write a strong reference letter for your friend.

1. Understand the Purpose of the Letter

Before you start writing, it’s important to understand the purpose of the letter. The reference letter is meant to provide information about your friend’s character, skills, and achievements. It should also explain why your friend is a good candidate for immigration. The letter should be written in a professional tone and should be free of any biases or personal opinions.

2. Gather Information

To write an effective reference letter, you need to gather information about your friend. This includes their full name, address, and contact information. You should also ask your friend about their immigration status, the type of visa they are applying for, and any other relevant details about their application.

3. Start with a Strong Introduction

The introduction of your letter should be strong and attention-grabbing. You can start by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with your friend. You should also mention how long you have known your friend and in what capacity.

4. Highlight Your Friend’s Strengths

The body of your letter should focus on your friend’s strengths and achievements. You should provide specific examples of your friend’s skills and accomplishments. This can include their education, work experience, volunteer work, and any other relevant information.

5. Explain Why Your Friend is a Good Candidate for Immigration

In addition to highlighting your friend’s strengths, you should also explain why your friend is a good candidate for immigration. This can include their language skills, cultural knowledge, and any other relevant factors. You should also explain how your friend will contribute to the community and why they are a valuable addition to the country.

6. Provide Contact Information

At the end of your letter, you should provide your contact information in case the immigration officer has any questions or needs further information. You should also encourage the officer to contact you if they need any additional information.

7. End with a Strong Conclusion

The conclusion of your letter should be strong and memorable. You can end by summarizing your friend’s strengths and why they are a good candidate for immigration.

FAQs About Reference Letter to Immigration for a Friend

1. what is a reference letter for immigration.

A reference letter for immigration is a document written by someone who knows the applicant well and can vouch for their character, skills, and abilities. It is often required as part of the immigration application process.

2. Who can write a reference letter for immigration?

A reference letter for immigration can be written by anyone who knows the applicant well, such as a friend, family member, employer, or colleague. However, it is important that the writer has a good understanding of the applicant’s character and can provide specific examples to support their claims.

3. What should be included in a reference letter for immigration?

A reference letter for immigration should include the writer’s contact information, the applicant’s name and relationship to the writer, a brief introduction of the writer’s relationship with the applicant, specific examples of the applicant’s character, skills, and abilities, and a conclusion that summarizes the writer’s recommendation.

4. How long should a reference letter for immigration be?

A reference letter for immigration should be one to two pages long. It should be concise and to the point, while still providing enough detail to support the writer’s claims.

5. Can a reference letter for immigration be written in a language other than English?

If the immigration application is in a language other than English, the reference letter can be written in that language. However, if the application is in English, the reference letter should also be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

6. How important is a reference letter for immigration?

A reference letter for immigration can be a crucial part of the application process. It provides additional evidence of the applicant’s character, skills, and abilities, and can help to strengthen their case for immigration.

7. What should I do if I am asked to write a reference letter for immigration?

If you are asked to write a reference letter for immigration, take the time to carefully consider your relationship with the applicant and what you can say about their character, skills, and abilities. Be honest and specific in your examples, and make sure to follow any guidelines provided by the immigration authorities.

• Letters To The President ( 5 Samples )
• Letter To The Bride Book ( 5 Samples )
• Authorization Letter To Bank ( 5 Samples )
• Day care Welcome Letter To Parents ( 5 Samples )
• Letter Of Appeal To Insurance ( 5 Samples )