by Todd Pheifer

Created on: February 26, 2010

Writing a reference letter for a colleague can be a helpful part of their career progression, even if it means that they might depart from their current job.  When people get to know each other in the workplace, there can be a level of mutual respect that is developed over time.  Therefore, people who work together may be in a good position to comment on each others work.  Sometimes people are colleagues but they also become friends, which means that they are happy when the other person does well in their career.  Of course, not everyone is a gifted writer, so people have to think about some factors before putting together such a letter.  Therefore, here are a few thoughts on writing a reference letter for a colleague so that it actually does some good, rather than damage the person's reputation.

Communication

Before people even think about writing a reference letter, they should determine if they can write something good about the person.  There are situations when someone is not necessarily aware of how they come across to another person.  In those situations it may be best for a person to decline a reference letter request or at least come up with a viable excuse.  It may be better to avoid writing the letter rather than writer a letter than is untrue. 

Work and performance

In many situations, the reference letter should talk about the work performance of the colleague.  It should list what they do well, and it should mention some things that they have done to make the organization better.  A reference letter is about strengths, and the person writing should do their best to "sell" the abilities of the colleague.  Granted, a reference letter should always be truthful so that the colleague does not get into a position where they are unable to defend the content of their reference letter. 

Personal, but not too personal 

A reference letter can also cover some aspects of a colleague's personality, so that the individual reading the letter can have a better sense of who the person is on an interpersonal level.  However, people do have to keep in mind that this is a professional document and not just a casual note.  Colleagues can certainly get along and develop a close relationship, but a reference letter should not make it so obvious that the two people are friends.  Therefore, formal language and sticking more to job duties and accomplishments may be the best way to craft a reference letter. 

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