Letters of Reference For First Substitute Job

[recluserecluse]

I am currently employed full-time as a building security guard in the late afternoon and evening and am applying to substitute teach in the morning and early afternoon for additional income. The school district to which I'm applying requires that I submit three letters of reference with letterhead. I'm planning to request these letters from my supervisor, a co-worker and a client (one of the tenants of the building where I do security reception desk work). What sort of information about me or evaluations of me might be the most effective in helping me get the job?

[Special-t]

I recently had to gather letters for the same purpose.

When I requested letters I also gave the writers a printed sheet with this information to make things easier for them:


Dear _____,

Thank you for taking time to write a letter of reference. I will be using it to apply for a job as a substitute teacher with (name the district).

Some things your letter might include:
How long I’ve worked for you (fill in the date for them so they don't have to look it up).
How you’d rate my performance on the job.
Any strengths I’ve exhibited as an employee.
If you think I’d be an asset to an employer.

Your letter does not have to be lengthy, but there are 2 details that the district requires:
1. Your letter must be written on letterhead
2. Your letter must be signed

A few extra copies of your letter would be appreciated. The signatures on those copies must be original - not photocopied.

You may also need to hand in originals to the district - so you may want to ask your writers to make a few copies with original signatures.

And make sure to specify that the letters are all on letterhead - even if it has nothing to do with the job they are referencing.

Hope you find this helpful!

[recluserecluse]

Thanks, Mrs. D.,

Your counsel is very helpful and much appreciated!

Recluserecluse

[Special-t]

I'm so glad to be helpful - I've found so much good advice on this board - it feels good to give back.

[Ms. I]

Prospective employers want to know the following kinds of things:

- how well you work w/ others

- maybe if you have the potential to be in a leadership position

- your punctuality and attendance

- how you take or react to criticism

- how well you problem-solve

- your work habits

- how well your organizational skills are

- how well your communication skills are

- your trustworthiness

- how well you appear to value your job