How to thank someone for a letter of recommendation: if you have received a positive business reference or letter of recommendation from a colleague or former boss, the proper thing to do is to acknowledge their generosity with a handwritten note of thanks.
While email is easy, a handwritten note is the proper way to acknowledge the author’s generosity and showcase your professionalism. Here are wording examples for various “thank you for the business referral” scenarios.
Thank you Note For the Letter of Recommendation
Example 1: Thank you note for a colleague who took the time to write a personal reference
Dear Joe:
Thank you so much for taking the time to write the letter of reference. Your words were so glowing I thought the company might believe I walked on water! But good news –- I start to work December 27th.
This is the job I’ve been waiting for, and I’ll not forget your part in helping me land it. Let me know when I can return the favour.
Best regards,
Sally
Example 2: More formal thank-you for a personal reference
Dear Pat:
I want to thank you personally for your interest, support, and encouragement in my recent job search. I’ve accepted a position with Drew Fromm and Associates in San Jose.
I’ll be joining their company as vice president of marketing with responsibilities in the five-state western region. Primarily, we sell manufacturing plant engineering and inspection services and related products.
Your advice was particularly helpful in the interviewing process and in subsequent negotiations. Let me know if I can help you, your friends, or your associates in San Jose, in any way.
Sincerely,
Shannon
Example 3: Thank you for letter of reference
Dear Cheryl,
Although that interview is still two weeks away, I didn’t want to let another day go by without thanking you for taking the time to write the letter of reference. Although I can’t imagine how I might help someone of your position in a similar way, I do want you to call on me for any other favour–perhaps some information or special tickets to an event you may want to attend when traveling in New York? I’d love to hear from you for any reason or favour at all.
Thank you for making me look so well-qualified for the job.
Best,
Jill
Example 4: Thank you for corporate reference
Dear Ms. Wyatt:
Thank you for responding to the request for a reference from Jose Pose, Inc. Evidently, you did an excellent job in communicating with them, and your opinion was highly valued by that company. I began my job as research assistant for Mr. Franks almost immediately.
I still remember the excellent working relationship in your department and count it as an extremely beneficial experience that enabled me to progress in my career.
Thank you again, and please write or phone if I can help you in any way.
Sincerely,
Helen
Example 5: Short Email Thank-You Letter Business Template for a Personal Reference
Subject: Heartfelt Thanks For Your Recommendation
Dear Steve:
Thank you very much for the thoughtful letter of recommendation you provided me for my job application at Freedom 45. You have always been a mentor to me and have helped me so much as I progress through my career.
Best regards,
Mack
Example 6: Personal thanks for a colleague’s reference
Dear [Colleague’s Name]:
I am deeply grateful for the time and effort you put into writing my letter of recommendation. Your kind words truly highlighted my skills and experiences, making me a strong candidate for the role. I appreciate your support and will remember this favor as we continue to work together.
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Formal thank-you for a reference
Dear [Recommender’s Name]:
I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your interest and support during my recent job search. I am thrilled to have accepted a position as [Job Title] with [Company Name]. Your advice was invaluable, particularly during the interview process and negotiations. If there is ever anything I can do to repay your kindness, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 8: Gratitude for a personal reference letter
Dear [Recommender’s Name]:
Thank you for writing the letter of recommendation that showcased my qualifications so well. Although we are still waiting for the interview, I wanted to express my appreciation immediately. If there is ever an opportunity for me to return the favor or assist you in any way, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warm Regards,
[Your Name]
Example 9: Appreciation for a corporate reference
Dear [Recommender’s Name]:
Thank you for taking the time to provide a reference for Jose Pose, Inc. Your glowing recommendation has positively impacted their decision-making process, and I am now employed as a research assistant for Mr. Franks. I will always be grateful for your support while working in your department and value the experience that helped me progress in my career.
If there is ever anything I can do to help you, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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