Resume Reference Example

Looking for an effective resume reference example? Follow some of the guidelines mentioned below.  But before actually seeking out a reference letter we advise you to carefully choose the person who is referring you. The reference letter speaks much about you and is judged upon the people who are recommending you as much as their understanding of you as a person and as an employee. Ideally your reference must come from your immediate superiors who have had a good knowledge about you and your work because they can say it with conviction. Secondly it must come from a person who can communicate and sell your case convincingly, through the letter as well as over phone if need be. Once you have identified your references, provide them with all your details and resources so they can do the job of selling you well. 

In your resume, keep the reference list in a separate page under a separate header such as ‘Reference list’, which contains the names, addresses and other contact information of at least three to five references.

How and whom does the reference letter address:

Normally, reference letters are addressed to any one whom it may concern. So, “To Whom it May Concern” occupies the top of the letter in most cases. However if it is a personal letter of reference, it may include a salutation such as Dear. Mr. X etc.

First paragraph of a resume reference example:

The first paragraph is introductory and explains the connection between the person writing the recommendation letter and the person who is being recommended. It also includes a few words about why he/she is qualified to write the reference letter.

Second paragraph of a resume reference example: 

The second paragraph gives specific details about the person who is being recommended. These include their qualifications, attributes on the job, how they have contributed, how the person writing the letter has been influenced by their work, how they can contribute as an individual, in a team, with personal traits and why the reference letter is recommending the person highly.

Third paragraph of a resume reference example:
If the letter is for a specific job then the third paragraph would explain how the person’s skill set is appropriate for the specific job.

The actual recommendation of a resume reference example:
This is the key part when the person writing the letter briefly tells the recipient of the letter why he is recommending the person to the job. This section is best written when phrases such as “highly recommend” are used and this is where the writer’s conviction comes through.

The Conclusion:
In conclusion, the writer of the letter offers to provide more information if needed. Leave a convenient phone number and email address with the address or under the signature.

Sincerely,

Name
Title

A resume reference letter would look something like this.

To whom it may concern:

I would like to recommend X as a candidate for position Y with your organization. I have known X who was employed in our office during 2005-2006 as ZZ. X was a valued performer who did an outstanding job in this position and contributed positively towards the organization goals during this period. He has excellent written and verbal communication skills, can work independently and proactively and ensures that the job gets done.

During his tenure with us, X was responsible for supervising a team of Accounts Officers that was responsible for A functions. X managed the team efficiently and independently and always displayed potential to take on higher responsibilities. The team exceeded their targets each time.

X was an effective team leader, organizing, communicating and delegating tasks effectively and motivating his team well. He shared an excellent rapport with colleagues, clients, and other stakeholders. I firmly believe that he would be an asset to any employer and I highly recommend him for any endeavor he chooses to pursue.

If you have any further questions with regard to her background or qualifications, please do not hesitate to call me.

Sincerely,

XXX

Title
Company
Address
Phone
Email