Because “Great Job!” Just Doesn’t Cut It
Let’s be honest—how many times have you worked with an amazing colleague and wanted to sing their praises, only to end up saying something painfully generic like, “They’re great to work with!”?
A good colleague deserves more than just a half-hearted compliment. Whether they mentored you, led a successful project, or just made work feel less like work, a well-crafted testimonial can be a meaningful way to recognize their contributions.
But writing one? That’s where things get tricky.
Should it be formal or casual? Short or detailed? And how do you make sure it doesn’t sound forced or overly flattering? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to write a professional yet heartfelt testimonial for a colleague, complete with examples, tips, and FAQs.
Why Writing a Testimonial for a Colleague Matters
A strong testimonial isn’t just a nice gesture—it has real-world benefits for both you and your colleague.
✔️ Professional Growth – A well-written testimonial can boost a colleague’s resume, LinkedIn profile, or professional portfolio.
✔️ Career Advancement – Employers value peer feedback. A great testimonial can strengthen job applications, promotions, or award nominations.
✔️ Stronger Work Relationships – Publicly acknowledging a colleague’s contributions fosters trust, appreciation, and a positive work culture.
✔️ Networking Opportunities – Testimonials often lead to stronger professional connections and even reciprocal recommendations.
So, whether you’re writing a testimonial for a performance review, a LinkedIn recommendation, or a farewell speech, your words can have a lasting impact.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Testimonial for a Colleague
Start with an Engaging Opening
Avoid starting with something dull like “I had the pleasure of working with John.” Instead, set the tone with something memorable:
✅ “Some people make work easier. Some make it enjoyable. But John? He does both—and then some.”
Your first sentence should grab attention and immediately establish why this colleague stands out.
Highlight Their Strengths with Specific Examples
General praise is forgettable. Specificity makes a testimonial meaningful.
Instead of:
⛔ “Sarah is a great team player.”
Try:
✅ “Sarah’s collaborative nature was the driving force behind our successful product launch. Her ability to navigate challenges and ensure everyone’s input was valued made all the difference.”
Think about:
- A key project they led.
- A skill that sets them apart.
- A challenge they overcame with their expertise.
Example:
“David doesn’t just manage projects—he transforms them. When our team faced a tight deadline, his strategic planning and calm leadership ensured we not only met but exceeded expectations.”
This approach makes your testimonial credible, engaging, and memorable.
Show Their Impact on You or the Team
How did this colleague contribute to your success? Did they mentor you, improve team morale, or make problem-solving easier?
✅ “Thanks to Lisa’s guidance, I was able to refine my presentation skills, which helped me secure a key client deal. Her mentorship has had a lasting impact on my professional growth.”
This connects their strengths to real outcomes, making the testimonial stronger.
Keep It Concise & Engaging
A testimonial should be long enough to be meaningful but short enough to stay engaging. Aim for 4-6 sentences that pack a punch.
⛔ Avoid:
“Mark was a nice person and good at his job. I enjoyed working with him.”
✅ Better:
“Mark’s attention to detail and problem-solving skills were instrumental in streamlining our workflow. He always found innovative solutions that saved time and improved efficiency. Any team would be lucky to have him!”
Remember, quality over quantity.
End with a Strong Closing Statement
Finish with a lasting impression by reaffirming their strengths or wishing them well in their career.
✅ “Samantha isn’t just a skilled marketer—she’s a leader, a mentor, and an inspiration. Any company fortunate enough to work with her is in for something special.”
A great closing leaves a positive impact and reinforces your message.
Testimonial Examples (For Inspiration!)
From a Colleague on the Same Team:
“Working with Jake has been an absolute privilege. His ability to break down complex problems into manageable solutions has made our projects smoother and more successful. He’s not just a great engineer—he’s an incredible teammate who always lifts those around him. Any company would be lucky to have him!”
From a Manager to a Team Member:
“Sophia is one of the most dedicated professionals I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Her ability to adapt, innovate, and lead by example makes her an invaluable asset to any team. She not only delivers outstanding results but also inspires those around her to strive for excellence.”
From a Departing Employee for a Former Colleague:
“If there’s one thing I’ll miss about this job, it’s working alongside Emily. Her positive energy, problem-solving mindset, and unwavering support made every challenge seem manageable. She’s not just a great coworker—she’s the kind of person who makes work feel rewarding.”
FAQs
How long should a colleague testimonial be?
A testimonial should be short but impactful, ideally 4-6 sentences.
Can I write a testimonial for a colleague I didn’t work with directly?
Yes! If you’ve observed their work, contributions, or leadership qualities, you can still provide valuable insights.
Should I mention specific achievements?
Absolutely! Highlighting specific projects, skills, or qualities makes your testimonial more credible and meaningful.
Can I add humor to my testimonial?
If appropriate, yes! A little humor can make your testimonial engaging—just keep it professional.
Where can a colleague use my testimonial?
Colleagues can use testimonials on LinkedIn, resumes, performance reviews, or job applications to enhance their professional profile.
Your Words Can Make a Difference
A well-written testimonial isn’t just a compliment—it’s a career booster, a relationship builder, and a sign of true appreciation.
By following this guide—starting strong, using specific examples, showing their impact, and wrapping up with a powerful closing—you can craft a testimonial that truly does justice to your colleague’s contributions.
So, take a moment today to recognize an incredible colleague. Whether they made work easier, inspired you, or helped you grow, let them know their efforts didn’t go unnoticed.
After all, a few well-chosen words can go a long way.
