When an employer asks for a character reference, it means they want to know what others think about your work ethic, skills, and personality. It can be a powerful tool in establishing your credibility and can often make the difference in getting the job. Here is a guide for writing a character reference for work.
If someone you know needs a character reference for work, you may be asked to write one for them. A character reference is a letter that speaks to an individual’s personality and work ethic. It can be used to support a job application, especially when the applicant has little or no work experience or the employer wants to know more about their qualities as an employee. Here is a guide to help you write a character reference for work.
A character reference is different from a professional reference because it focuses on the individual’s personal qualities and work ethic. Unlike a professional reference, it does not come from an employer or colleague but from someone who knows the applicant on a personal level. It should be written by someone who has seen the applicant in a work or volunteer capacity, or in a position where they have demonstrated the skills they will need on the job.
When writing a character reference, you should be honest and provide specific examples of the applicant’s skills and abilities. You should also avoid making negative comments or mentioning any weaknesses that could hurt their chances of getting the job.
Readers can find examples of character references online and edit them as needed to fit the specific needs of the applicant and employer.
Character Reference Example for Communication Skills
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. As [his/her] [volunteer supervisor/colleague] at [organization], I have had the pleasure of seeing [Applicant’s Name] in action and can attest to [his/her] outstanding communication skills.
[Applicant’s Name] has consistently demonstrated the ability to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life. [He/She] communicates with clarity and empathy, actively listens, and responds appropriately to feedback. [His/Her] ability to communicate effectively has earned the respect and admiration of [his/her] peers and supervisors alike, making [him/her] an invaluable member of any team.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Character Reference Example for Dependability
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. As [his/her] [volunteer supervisor/colleague] at [organization], I have had the pleasure of seeing [Applicant’s Name] in action and can attest to [his/her] outstanding dependability.
[Applicant’s Name] is one of the most dependable people I have ever met. [He/She] consistently shows up on time, meets deadlines, and completes tasks to the best of [his/her] ability. [He/She] takes pride in [his/her] work and always goes the extra mile to ensure that [his/her] tasks are completed to the highest standard. [His/Her] dependability is a testament to [his/her] strong work ethic and dedication to [his/her] responsibilities.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Character Reference Example for Creativity
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. As [his/her] [volunteer supervisor/colleague] at [organization], I have had the pleasure of seeing [Applicant’s Name] in action and can attest to [his/her] outstanding creativity.
[Applicant’s Name] is a creative and innovative problem-solver. [He/She] brings a unique perspective to every project and always finds new and exciting ways to approach challenges. [His/Her] creativity has been instrumental in [his/her] success as a [Job Title] and has helped [him/her] to stand out in a competitive field.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Character Reference Example for Leadership
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. As [his/her] [volunteer supervisor/colleague] at [organization], I have had the pleasure of seeing [Applicant’s Name] in action and can attest to [his/her] outstanding leadership skills.
[Applicant’s Name] is a natural leader who inspires others to follow [his/her] example. [He/She] is an excellent communicator who is able to motivate and engage people from all walks of life. [His/Her] leadership style is inclusive and collaborative, and [he/she] always ensures that everyone’s voices are heard. [His/Her] leadership has been instrumental in [his/her] success as a [Job Title] and has helped [him/her] to stand out in a competitive field.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Character Reference Example for Problem-Solving
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. As [his/her] [volunteer supervisor/colleague] at [organization], I have had the pleasure of seeing [Applicant’s Name] in action and can attest to [his/her] outstanding problem-solving skills.
[Applicant’s Name] is an analytical and creative problem-solver who is able to find solutions to even the most complex challenges. [He/She] approaches problems with a positive attitude and a determination to find the best possible outcome. [His/Her] ability to think critically and outside the box has been instrumental in [his/her] success as a [Job Title] and has helped [him/her] to stand out in a competitive field.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Character Reference Example for Teamwork
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. As [his/her] [volunteer supervisor/colleague] at [organization], I have had the pleasure of seeing [Applicant’s Name] in action and can attest to [his/her] outstanding teamwork skills.
[Applicant’s Name] is an excellent team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand. [He/She] works well with others, communicates effectively, and is able to adapt to changing situations. [His/Her] ability to collaborate has been instrumental in [his/her] success as a [Job Title] and has helped [him/her] to stand out in a competitive field.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Tips for Writing a Character Reference for Work
When writing a character reference, keep in mind the following tips:
- Be honest
- Provide specific examples
- Avoid making negative comments
- Focus on the applicant’s personal qualities and work ethic
- Write in a professional tone
- Keep it short and to the point
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference for work?
A character reference for work is a letter that speaks to an individual’s personal qualities and work ethic. It can be used to support a job application, especially when the applicant has little or no work experience or the employer wants to know more about their qualities as an employee.
Who should write a character reference for work?
A character reference for work should be written by someone who knows the applicant on a personal level and has seen them in a work or volunteer capacity. It should not come from an employer or colleague but from someone who can speak to the applicant’s personal qualities and work ethic.
What should be included in a character reference for work?
A character reference for work should include specific examples of the applicant’s skills and abilities, as well as their personal qualities and work ethic. It should be written in a professional tone and avoid making negative comments or mentioning any weaknesses that could hurt their chances of getting the job.
How long should a character reference for work be?
A character reference for work should be short and to the point, typically no more than one page in length. It should provide enough information to support the applicant’s job application but not be overly verbose or repetitive.
Can a family member write a character reference for work?
While a family member can certainly write a character reference for work, it may not carry as much weight as a reference from someone who knows the applicant on a professional level. It is generally recommended to have a character reference from someone who has seen the applicant in a work or volunteer capacity.
Do character references for work need to be notarized?
Character references for work do not typically need to be notarized unless specifically requested by the employer. However, it is always a good idea to check with the employer to see if there are any specific requirements for the reference.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference for work can be a powerful tool in establishing an applicant’s credibility and can often make the difference in getting the job. By following the tips outlined in this guide and providing specific examples of an applicant’s skills and abilities, you can help them stand out in a competitive job market.