A character reference letter, also known as a personal reference letter, provides insight into an individual’s personality, skills, and overall character. It’s often requested by someone applying for a job, volunteer position, or even an apartment. A well-written letter can significantly impact their chances of success. The following examples demonstrate different approaches to crafting effective character references.
When writing a character reference, consider your relationship with the person and highlight specific qualities that make them a good candidate. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points. Focus on attributes like responsibility, integrity, teamwork, work ethic, and any specific skills relevant to the opportunity they are pursuing. Honesty and genuine enthusiasm are crucial for a compelling reference.
These samples will give you a template that is easy to follow when writing a personal reference letter. Remember to personalize each letter to reflect your specific relationship with the individual and the requirements of the situation they are applying for. A tailored and heartfelt letter will be far more impactful than a generic one. Ensure the letter is proofread for grammatical errors and typos.
Character Reference Letter Samples
Sample 1: General Character Reference
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Recipient Name] (If known, otherwise use a generic title)
[Recipient Title]
[Recipient Organization]
[Recipient Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant, e.g., a neighbor, colleague, friend]. During that time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [positive quality, e.g., responsibility]. For example, [Specific Example showcasing the quality, e.g., “he/she always volunteered to help elderly neighbors with their groceries”].
[Applicant Name] is a [positive adjective, e.g., reliable] and [another positive adjective, e.g., hardworking] individual with a strong [positive quality, e.g., sense of integrity]. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to your organization.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Focusing on Teamwork
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If available, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for a position at your company. I had the pleasure of working with [Applicant Name] on [Project Name] at [Organization Name] as [Your Role] and [Applicant’s Role]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated exceptional teamwork skills.
[Applicant Name]’s ability to [Specific Example of teamwork, e.g., facilitate group discussions and ensure everyone’s voice was heard] was invaluable to the project’s success. [He/She/They] are a [positive adjective, e.g., collaborative] and [another positive adjective, e.g., supportive] team member, always willing to go the extra mile to help others.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Highlighting Responsibility
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Landlord/Apartment Manager Name] (If known, otherwise use title)
[Apartment Complex Name]
[Apartment Complex Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am pleased to provide this letter of reference for [Applicant Name], who is applying to rent an apartment at your complex. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship, e.g., a neighbor].
During that time, I have consistently observed [Applicant Name]’s responsibility. For example, [Specific Example showcasing responsibility, e.g., “he/she always maintained a clean and quiet living space and was respectful of other residents”]. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a responsible and considerate tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Emphasizing Integrity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] without reservation. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship, e.g., a friend and fellow volunteer].
Throughout our acquaintance, [Applicant Name] has consistently demonstrated the highest levels of integrity. [Specific Example showcasing integrity, e.g., “I witnessed him/her return a large sum of money he/she found, without hesitation”]. [He/She/They] are a person of strong moral character and I trust [him/her/them] implicitly.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Focusing on Work Ethic
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name] (If available, otherwise use title)
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of supervising [Applicant Name] at [Previous Company/Organization] as [Your Role] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
[Applicant Name] possesses an exceptional work ethic. [Specific Example showcasing work ethic, e.g., “he/she consistently exceeded expectations, often working late to ensure deadlines were met”]. [He/She/They] are a highly motivated and dedicated individual.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Highlighting Specific Skills
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a highly skilled [Profession/Skill, e.g., graphic designer]. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship, e.g., a colleague and client].
[Applicant Name] possesses exceptional [Specific Skill, e.g., Adobe Creative Suite] skills. [Specific Example showcasing skill, e.g., “he/she designed a website for my business that received rave reviews”]. [He/She/They] are also highly creative and detail-oriented.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: For a Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name] (If available, otherwise use title)
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position at your organization. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship, e.g., a fellow member of a community group].
[Applicant Name] is a dedicated and compassionate individual. [Specific Example showing suitability for volunteer work, e.g., “he/she consistently volunteers his/her time to help those in need”]. [He/She/They] are passionate about [Cause related to the volunteer position] and I believe [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
A strong character reference letter is a powerful tool for supporting someone’s application. By focusing on specific qualities and providing concrete examples, you can create a compelling testament to their character and abilities. Remember to tailor each letter to the specific situation and maintain a tone of sincerity and genuine support.