Writing a Letter of Introduction for Employment

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A letter of introduction can serve as a professional connection between you and an associate’s next employment opportunity. People who are between jobs or careers, have recently moved to a new city or are simply having a hard time networking may need to ask you for a letter of introduction. This letter can establish a connection to help that individual find their next professional position. This article will explain the purpose of a letter of introduction for employment and how to write one when someone asks you for an introduction letter.

What is a letter of introduction for employment?

A letter of introduction for employment is a type of communication, usually an email or a formal business letter, that is used to introduce two people in your network. Essentially, you’re writing this letter to help someone attain a position of employment. 

During your career, you may need to write these letters to introduce:

  • Coworkers
  • New team members
  • Job candidates
  • Customers or clients
  • Freelancers or contractors

A professional letter of introduction can provide context and background related to the person you are introducing. A letter of introduction is a respectful way of getting a person’s name in front of influential people without imposing on their time.

What should be included in a letter of introduction for employment?

An introduction letter for employment is not a resume, cover letter, reference letter or biography that covers every aspect of someone’s life. Rather, it is a concise and clear explanation as to why you’re writing and how the introduction may be beneficial to the reader. While a letter of introduction for employment may be used in various situations, there are a few standard components that should be included. As you begin writing the letter, be sure to only include pertinent information that may be beneficial to all parties.

Today, most letters of introduction will be sent via email. When composing the message, make sure to use clear, unambiguous language. Many people who are short on time may not even read a lengthy email. Therefore, it is a good idea to write your email as concisely as possible without leaving out any critical information.

How to write a letter of introduction for employment

Here are some steps to follow as you begin writing a letter of introduction for employment:

1. First, start with a greeting and explanation of why you’re writing the letter

Compose a brief greeting to the influential party to begin the letter. You should include their name on the first line, followed by a social opener. 

Example greeting:

Hi Shanice,

I hope you’re having a great week!

2. Second, add a short description of why you’re introducing the two parties

Explain why you’re contacting the influential person to provide context.

Example description or reason why you are writing:

I’m writing as a follow-up to our department meeting about streamlining some of our accounting tasks.

3. Next, include any relevant details such as the name, current position and your knowledge of the person you’re introducing

Present these details and identify why you think their experience relates to the reader.

Example of introduction details:

I’d like to formally introduce you to David Miller. I worked with David at Ackermann Foods, where he held the title of finance project manager. During this time, he helped lead our department through the process of streamlining our accounting system.

4. Then, give the reason you think the two parties would benefit from an introduction

Explain why and how you’re planning on making an in-person introduction. This is the ideal time to mention why you think the two parties should meet.

Example of the reason why you would like to plan an introduction:

After speaking with David about our department meeting, he mentioned that he could assist us in streamlining our accounting tasks. He also stated that his latest project is coming to an end and that he would be happy to meet with us next week about joining the team.

5. Next, include contact information on behalf of the person you’re writing the letter of introduction for

Be sure to include their email address or other relevant contact information. Do not CC the person that you are introducing, as this may make the recipient feel uncomfortable.

Example of contact information to include:

If you feel that David may be a good fit for the team or if you have a question, feel free to contact him at david.ackermann@email.com or on his cell phone at 555-312-8788.

6. Then, conclude with any other vital information and next steps

Be sure to include any other relevant details that the recipient should be informed about.

Example of how to include next steps:

I’m going to meet with David next week. If you would like me to introduce you to him, I will gladly do so. Please let me know by Friday.

7. Finally, add your name and current position

End the correspondence with a professional closing like ‘Thanks for your time’ or ‘Best regards.’ On the next line, add your name, title and contact information. If you’re writing a physical letter, add your signature before the contact information.

Example of professional closing: 

Sincerely,
Margaret Yang
Controller
m.yang@auditorexample.com

Letter of introduction for employment example

Here is an example of a letter of introduction for employment that you can use when creating your own: 

Dear Rachel,

I hope you had a great weekend! I’m writing to you today because I know that there is a sales position currently open. I’d like to introduce you to Duncan Washington. I worked with him at Justworks, where he was the No. 3 salesperson. After I spoke with Duncan and explained our basic requirements, he was excited about the possibility of meeting you.

If you feel that Duncan may be a good fit for the team or if you have a question, feel free to contact him at d.washington@email.com or on his cell phone at 555-321-7777.

You can also read more about Duncan’s experience at duncanwashington.portfolio.com.

Best Regards,
Emily Sprout
Marketing Director
e.sprout@examplecity.com