To write a referral cover letter, it's crucial to mention the name of the person who connects you with the addressee in the first sentence. This not only reveals the purpose of your business letter, which is that a person the employer knows recommends you for the job, but serves to grab his or her interest immediately. Make an outline of the cover letter that starts with what the person you have in common with the employer is referring you for and how you know him or her. In the second and third paragraphs, go into more detail about the work you've done that the referral person can vouch for. It's important not to brag or exaggerate your positions or accomplishments when writing a referral cover letter.
Everything you say in the letter should be verifiable by your references and past employers. Otherwise, you could be in danger of committing employment fraud or, at the very least, lose out on the job you want if the employer uncovers dishonesty in your referral cover letter. After you've written a rough draft, go over it to make sure everything you've said is completely true.
A great starter for the cover letter is to say something like: "I know Jane Jones through the Brown Community Center where she teaches aerobics. Ms. Jones has chosen me to lead the class in her absence several times. She suggested that I apply for your job opening as the ideal aerobics instructor for your clients." After an opening statement that specifies who is referring you and why, it's best to add your credentials or qualifications to show that having that person as a reference is not the only reason you're the ideal applicant. At this point, you could mention your education, degree or designation earned before mentioning your additional experience.
After the segue into your other experiences that relate to the job, mention specific achievements of yours in each different position. Even if the work wasn't paid employment, relevant achievements in a volunteer capacity are still important. You should promote skills that add even more weight to your referral; relate these to the job requirements listed in an employment ad for the position. A referral cover letter should connect you to a person known and respected by the employer, but also convince him or her that your other qualifications make you the best candidate above and beyond the reference alone.
