How do I write a letter of reference?

[RNOTODAY, BSN, RN]

I have been asked to write a letter of reference for a former co worker. I have never done this before....aside from the obvious, what should be put in it? How long have I known the person, how did I come to know them? Also, do I tell them my position? Do I put it on plain letter head, or my company letter head from where I am employed now?

I just want to give the best possible reference I can, but not sure on the standards for this. Thanks

[need714]

here is what my cna instructor wrote for me and i was sooooo appreciative, and it helped me get a job in the hospital without experience...i think..??..??

to whom it may concern:

it is with the utmost pleasure that i write this letter of recommendation on behalf of (my name). she was a student of mine for her cna training. she graduated and took her florida state exam in january. she did extremely well and made a perfect score on her clinical exam.

(my name) was a pleasure to teach and very eager and willing to learn her role as a cna. some of her attributes that i found to be valuable are her compassion, reliability, and initiative that she displayed during class. she worked very well with her fellow students. she always assisted when she was asked, and took initiative when not asked. she also displayed a sense of caring and sound judgment that i feel would maker her an asset to any clinical setting.

based on my experience with (my name), it is my opinion that she is an extremely competent individual whose moral and ethical standards are of the highest caliber. i would recommend her for any position or task without reservation.

if i can be of further assistance to you concerning (my name), please feel free to contact me.

sincerly,

signed

(her name, rn)

cna instructor

so, as you can see i couldn't have asked for anything better than that. hopefully this will give you a good idea of what to put in it. i'm sure you should have plenty to say, since people tend not to just write a letter of recommendation for just anyone. i hope this helps!

need...