A testimonial letter for a job is a written recommendation that supports a candidate’s skills, work ethic, and suitability for a particular position. Whether you’re an employer, supervisor, teacher, or colleague, writing a strong and honest testimonial can make a significant difference in someone’s job application. It should be clear, professional, and based on your experience with the individual. Here is how to write a testimonial letter for a job.
- Start with the Correct Format
Begin the letter with your full name, job title, company or organization, and contact information. Then include the date and the recipient’s details (if known).
Example:
Nomsa Dlamini
Senior Manager
FutureTech Solutions
n.dlamini@futuretech.co.za
28 March 2025
To Whom It May Concern,
(or include the hiring manager’s name if available)
- Introduce Yourself and Your Relationship to the Candidate
Start the letter by explaining who you are and how you know the person. Mention your position and the capacity in which you worked with or supervised the candidate.
Example:
I am pleased to write this testimonial letter for Lwazi Khumalo, who worked under my supervision as an IT technician at FutureTech Solutions for three years. During this time, I had the opportunity to observe his work ethic, technical skills, and professionalism.
- Highlight Key Qualities and Achievements
Describe the candidate’s skills, character, and notable contributions. Focus on qualities that are relevant to the job they are applying for, such as reliability, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, or leadership.
Example:
Lwazi consistently demonstrated excellent technical knowledge, particularly in system maintenance and software troubleshooting. He approached every task with dedication, often going the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction. His ability to remain calm under pressure and his quick thinking made him a valuable team member, especially during tight deadlines or system emergencies.
- Share Specific Examples
Use at least one or two examples to support your claims. This adds credibility to the letter and helps the employer understand how the candidate performs in real situations.
Example:
One memorable example of Lwazi’s initiative was during a major server outage. He quickly diagnosed the issue, worked through the night, and successfully restored the system before business hours, minimizing downtime. His actions saved the company from significant operational disruptions.
- Offer a Strong Closing Recommendation
End the letter with a clear and positive statement of recommendation. If you genuinely support the candidate, say so without hesitation.
Example:
I have no doubt that Lwazi will be an asset to any company he joins. I strongly recommend him for the position he is applying for and am confident he will continue to excel in his career.
- Add a Professional Closing
Finish with a professional closing and include your signature if printing the letter.
Example:
Sincerely,
Dama Gatwiri
Senior Manager
FutureTech Solutions
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