Written references are a good way to reward occasional staff such as those on contracts or doing work experience.
- Date the reference and specify the time period in which you worked with the person.
- Outline the role and what the person achieved in that role.
- Specify in what capacity you are able to give the reference, including your relationship (e.g. supervisor, direct manager).
- Mention how the person interacted with other staff.
- Qualify any recommendations to help the reader (e.g. instead of ‘I would recommend X to anyone’, say ‘I would recommend X to any employer looking for a self-starter with plenty of initiative’).
