When it comes to creating a strong resume, including a character reference can add value to your application. Hiring managers look for candidates who can demonstrate good character, and including a reference can help to provide credibility and support your qualifications. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of including a character reference in your resume and provide examples to help you get started.
Why Include a Character Reference in Your Resume?
Character references highlight qualities such as work ethic, trustworthiness, and reliability. When you include a character reference in your resume, it can help to differentiate you from other candidates and give the hiring manager a better understanding of your personality and character. A strong character reference can also be helpful when you don’t have a lot of work experience or when you are changing careers.
Readers can find examples of character references below and edit them as needed.
Character Reference Examples
Reference for Dependability
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing this letter to support [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position. I have known [Candidate Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to their dependability and commitment to their work. [Candidate Name] has always been punctual and reliable in meeting their responsibilities and has often gone above and beyond expectations to deliver high-quality results.
If you require further information or would like to discuss [Candidate Name’s] qualifications further, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am confident that [Candidate Name] would be an excellent addition to your team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Work Ethic
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] for [Number of Years] years and have been consistently impressed by their work ethic and dedication to their job. [Candidate Name] has always demonstrated a positive attitude and a willingness to go above and beyond what is expected to meet the needs of the team.
If you require any further information or would like to discuss [Candidate Name’s] suitability for the role, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Attention to Detail
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the position of [Job Title]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to their exceptional attention to detail. [Candidate Name] possesses a keen eye for detail and consistently produces work that is of the highest quality. They are a dedicated worker who takes great pride in their work and always goes the extra mile to ensure that their projects are completed on time and to the highest standard.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or would like to discuss [Candidate Name’s] qualifications further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Teamwork
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I highly recommend [Candidate Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] for [Number of Years] years and have been consistently impressed by their teamwork and ability to collaborate with others to achieve common goals. [Candidate Name] is a team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand and has a positive attitude that helps to boost team morale.
If you require further information or would like to discuss [Candidate Name’s] qualifications further, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Leadership
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] for [Number of Years] years and have been consistently impressed by their leadership skills. [Candidate Name] has the ability to inspire and motivate others to achieve their best work and possesses exceptional communication skills that have been instrumental in building and maintaining strong, productive teams.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or would like to discuss [Candidate Name’s] qualifications further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Adaptability
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to their ability to adapt to change and work effectively in challenging situations. [Candidate Name] is a quick learner who is able to take on new tasks and responsibilities with ease and always maintains a positive attitude and a willingness to help others.
If you require further information or would like to discuss [Candidate Name’s] qualifications further, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for Including a Character Reference in Your Resume
When including a character reference in your resume, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Choose references who can speak to your personal qualities and work ethic.
- Avoid using family members or close friends as references.
- Provide your references with a copy of your resume and job description so they can be prepared to speak to your qualifications.
- Always ask your references for permission before including them in your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference in a resume?
A character reference is a written recommendation from someone who can vouch for your personal qualities and work ethic. It is included in your resume to provide additional information about your character and support your qualifications for a job.
Who should I ask to be a character reference?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your personal qualities and work ethic. This might include a former employer or supervisor, a teacher, or a mentor. Avoid using family members or close friends as references.
How do I ask someone to be a character reference?
When asking someone to be a character reference, it’s important to be polite and respectful. Explain that you are applying for a job and would like to include them as a reference. Be sure to provide them with a copy of your resume and the job description so they can be prepared to speak to your qualifications.
Is it necessary to include a character reference in my resume?
No, it is not necessary to include a character reference in your resume. However, it can be helpful in demonstrating your personal qualities and supporting your qualifications for a job, particularly if you are changing careers or don’t have a lot of work experience.
What should a character reference include?
A character reference should include the name and contact information of the reference, their relationship to you, and a brief description of your personal qualities and work ethic. It should also include any relevant information about the job you are applying for and how the reference knows you.
How many character references should I include in my resume?
You should include two to three character references in your resume. Make sure that each reference can speak to different aspects of your personal qualities and work ethic.
Conclusion
Including a character reference in your resume can help to support your qualifications and demonstrate your personal qualities to a potential employer. By following the tips provided and using the examples as a reference, you can create a strong character reference that will help you stand out from other candidates.