Key takeaways:
- A work experience certificate validates an employee's tenure and performance in a company, enhancing their credibility.
- It includes the company’s letterhead, employee details, tenure, job responsibilities, performance summary, and official sign-off.
- While writing one, customise yours using a standard template for a professional look.
- Be specific and professional, and ensure it is error-free.
Did you know that 70% of employers check a candidate's prior work experience, as a hiring decision?
Whether you're an HR manager creating these certificates or an employee trying to enhance your resume, understanding the essentials of a work experience certificate is essential.
In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about writing a professional and impactful experience letter. Read on to learn the key components, format, and pro tips to make your experience certificate stand out.
This article explains:
- What is an experience certificate/letter?
- Experience letter format and samples
- How to write one
Let's get started.
Table of Contents
- What is a work experience certificate/letter?
- Experience letter format
- Experience letter sample
- Application for work experience certificate
- Sample request letter for experience certificate sample
- Frequently asked questions
What is a work experience certificate/letter?
A work experience certificate is a formal letter provided to a departing employee by the employer at the end of their work.
KEY FACT: An experience certificate is also known as a job experience certificate, work experience letter, employment verification letter, or work reference letter. |
If you are applying for a job or a university, and have previous experience, you must present an experience certificate. This provides further details on your performance and abilities in addition to your resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Why is a work experience certificate important?
It serves as evidence that you have completed your employment term and provides a recommendation of your work output for the business. Generally, it's necessary when you change jobs. Employers in almost every country require proof of your previous work experience.
Also read: Best countries to study and work
What should a work experience certificate contain?
A work experience certificate must contain the following:
- The company letterhead
- Date of issue of letter
- Your full name and designation
- Your joining and last working date
- Performance summary
- Authorised signatory and company seal
Experience letter format
A standard experience letter word format would look like the one below:
[Company letterhead] Name of the organisation Date of issuance: [DD/MM/YYYY] To whom it may concern, Mention the employee's name, tenure of service, designation, roles and responsibilities, a brief description of the employee’s course of employment and a positive statement from their manager or supervisor. Include a signature line at the end of the letter, including the name of the employer who writes the letter, the designation and the company’s seal and signature. For example, Sincerely, |
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Experience letter sample
[Company letterhead with name] Date of issuance: [DD/MM/YYYY] To whom it may concern, This is to certify that [employee's name] was employed with [company's name] as a [designation] from [start date] to [end date]. During their tenure with us, [employee's name] was responsible for [briefly describe job responsibilities]. They demonstrated [highlight key skills and achievements]. Their performance was [mention performance level] and they contributed significantly to [mention projects or initiatives]. We wish [employee's name] all the best in their future endeavours. Sincerely, |
Application for work experience certificate
Here’s how you can request an experience letter:
- Mail your concern to your reporting manager, and mark a copy for the Human Resources team. Mention your tenure in the mail.
- Ensure that any pending formalities are completed.
- Show your appreciation towards the company and express gratitude.
- In case of any delay, send reminder emails and follow up on the communication.
KEY POINT: Once you receive the work experience certificate, ensure it has all the important information, and proofread to avoid errors or spelling mistakes. |
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Sample request letter for experience certificate sample
To [Recipient’s name] Subject: Request for experience certificate [Request date] Dear [Recipient’s name], I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally request an experience certificate from [company name] where I was employed as [your designation] from [date of joining] to [last working day]. I appreciate the opportunities and experiences I gained at [company name] and I am grateful for the guidance and support I received throughout my employment. Your cooperation in providing the experience certificate will greatly help in my career. I kindly request that the certificate comprehensively contains my Date of Joining (DOJ) and Date of Exit (DOE) to meet the requirements of my new job. Once again, I thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this regard and look forward to receiving the experience certificate at your earliest convenience. Sincerely, |
KEY FACT: A work experience certificate is required if you are applying for a job or a university and have previous experience. This provides further details on your performance and abilities in addition to your resume or CV. |
If you plan to study abroad, you must provide the documents mentioned below to proceed with the university application.
- Academic transcripts
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Admission test results
- English language proficiency test scores
- Passport
- Proof of funds
- Visa
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Frequently asked questions
Who writes a work experience certificate?
Your employer will provide you with a work experience certificate when you leave the company. If not provided, you can request it through mail or in person.
How can I request a work experience certificate from my previous employer?
To request a work experience certificate, write a formal email or letter to your reporting manager and the HR department. State the required details, such as your name, designation, and the specific information you need in the certificate. Request for the certificate politely and professionally.
What should be included in a work experience certificate?
An experience letter should bear the company letterhead and include the date of issue, your name, designation, tenure, job responsibilities, your joining and last working date, performance summary, and an authorised signatory and company seal.
Who should sign the work experience certificate?
The work experience certificate should be signed by an authorised signatory. This could be the reporting manager or HR representative and should include the company’s seal.
