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EMS Tips

Asking for a Reference Letter

As an employer and educator I receive requests from time-to-time asking me to write a reference letter. If I know you well enough and can speak positively and confidently on your behalf I am usually glad to write these letters. It is my intent to help seal the deal if you are well qualified and sincerely want the position you are seeking.

Whenever I write a letter of recommendation I always ask the candidate for the following:
1) Current CV or resume
2) Description for the job or position they are applying
3) Main points or accomplishments they would like me to address in the letter

Finally I am much more likely to write you a future reference letter if I receive a hand-written thank you note after the application process is complete. Did you get the job? Did you accept the position? Why or why not?

Your turn: Do reference letters still matter? Do employers look at LinkedIn recommendation letters?

By Greg Friese

Greg Friese, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, is an author, educator, paramedic, and marathon runner.

Greg was the co-host of the award winning EMSEduCast podcast, the only podcast by and for EMS educators. Greg has written for EMS1.com, JEMS.com, Wilderness Medical Associates, JEMS Magazine, EMSWorld.com and EMS World Magazine, and the NAEMSE Educator Newsletter.