Decline Signature Block Personal Reference Letter For Free

If you can't come up with a believable explanation, it's fine to to (politely) tell someone outright that you don't feel comfortable being a reference. Keep things short and simple: ?I don't think I'm the best fit for this.? You don't need to explain why; in fact, you probably shouldn't.

Be candid. ?I was surprised to be contacted as a reference, as I don't remember us ever discussing it. Unfortunately, I don't feel I know you well enough to give as strong a reference as you deserve. So, I'd appreciate it if you'd refrain from listing me in future.?

You're not obligated to provide someone with a reference. When you need to decline a reference request, try to do so promptly.

Unless your business is regulated by the Financial Services Authority, generally there is no legal obligation on an employer to provide a reference for an employee or ex-employee and you are entitled to refuse to provide one.

While I do appreciate your request to use me as a reference, I ultimately do not feel that I would be the best person to do so. I also feel that you deserve a recommendation from someone who can better speak to your professional capabilities, so I am sorry, but I do have to decline your request.

Be professional too ? there's no need to be negative and this isn't the right time to highlight all their shortfalls. Here's an example of what you could write: ?I don't think I am the best person to write you a recommendation, but I'm sure there's someone much better suited to speak about you.?

If you agree to provide a reference, follow these tips: Keep the information factual. Avoid opinions about issues such as personal conflicts. ... Qualify what you say. ... Make your praise specific. ... Refer to specific tasks or projects. ... Avoid examples that highlight a candidate's weaknesses.

As a reference letter is a formal application document, it's important you can sign it in a professional and official manner. Type your name in print and consider using e-signature software to include your signature. In addition, include your job title and company after your name to show your credentials.