1. Discussion.

1. Is a reference letter an important instrument of getting a job?

2. Who is the most suitable person to give you a recommendation?

2. Study carefully how to write a reference. Maybe you will have to do it yourself in future.

Reference letters

Everyone can be called upon at some time to provide a recommendation or reference for a colleague, an acquaintance, or an employee. Reference letters may range from completing an admission form for a prospective student to composing a detailed description of professional accomplishments and personal characteristics for someone seeking employment.

In order to write an effective letter of recommendation, you must be familiar enough with the applicant’s abilities or actual performance to offer an evaluation. Then you must truthfully, without embellishment, communicate that evaluation to the inquirer. For the reference letter to serve as a valid selection device, you must address specifically the applicant’s skills, abilities, knowledge, and personal characteristics in relation to the requested objective. You may also be asked to say what you know about the person’s former employment and education.

In a reference letter, always respond directly to the inquiry, being careful to address the specific questions asked. You must identify yourself: name, title or position, employer, and address. You will also have to state how long you have known the applicant and the circumstances of your acquaintance. You should mention with as much substantiation as possible, one or two outstanding characteristics of the applicant. Organize the details in your letter in order of importance; put the most important details first. Conclude with a statement of recommendation and a brief summary of the applicant’s qualifications.

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Arthur James & Associates

235 Menlough Highway East North Anglia, Indiana 47817

Mr. Sylverter Smith, Human Resource Director

Avant Garde Industries, Inc.

322 State Street

Madison, Wisconsin 53799

Dear Mr. Smith:

As her employer and her friend, I am happy to have this opportunity to recommend Linda Gonzalez for a position with your company. I have known Ms. Gonzalez since 1979, first as a clerk, later as a manager, and now as a personal friend.

Ms. Gonzalez came to Arthur James & Associates from the State University of Wisconsin at Heartland, where she received her degree in Business. For two summers, she was a clerk/typist, and after graduation we hired her to run the shipping department. At first, Linda was the entire department, but over the years, as our organization grew, she became responsible for supervising 8 other employees.

Linda is one of the most reliable employees we have had. She was a superb supervisor, giving her staff many hours of her time, training them carefully, and encouraging them to produce more for Arthur James & Associates.

In 1988, we went through a major corporate restructuring. Linda’s department was able to continue offering high-quality service throughout this difficult period, primarily because of her leadership. We here at Arthur James & Associates will be sorry to see her go, but we know that moving to Madison to be near her family is important to her and that it will also be good for her career.

I strongly recommend Linda Gonzalez for her ability to motivate employees, for her strong leadership skills, and for her sense of loyalty. Please let me know if I can be of any other help.

Sincerely,

Arthur James

Arthur James

C.E.O. and President

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