When applying for a job, it is important to provide character references that can attest to your character and work ethic. A character reference is a letter written by someone who knows you well and can speak to your abilities and qualities that would make you a great candidate for the job. Below are some examples of character reference letters that you can use as a guide when creating your own.
Example 1: Character Reference for Sales Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the sales position. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to [his/her] excellent sales skills and professionalism.
[Applicant’s Name] is a great communicator who can easily build rapport with clients. [He/She] has an impressive track record of consistently exceeding sales targets and providing excellent customer service. [He/She] is also a team player who is always willing to lend a hand to colleagues.
I have no doubt that [Applicant’s Name] will be an asset to your team and I highly recommend [him/her] for the sales position.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Signature]
Example 2: Character Reference for Administrative Assistant Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the administrative assistant position. I have had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to [his/her] excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
[Applicant’s Name] is a highly efficient and reliable individual who can handle multiple tasks at once. [He/She] is also a great problem-solver who can work under pressure and meet deadlines. [His/Her] positive attitude and friendly demeanor make [him/her] a pleasure to work with.
I strongly believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be an excellent addition to your team and I highly recommend [him/her] for the administrative assistant position.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Signature]
Example 3: Character Reference for Accounting Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the accounting position. I have had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to [his/her] excellent accounting skills and attention to detail.
[Applicant’s Name] is a highly analytical individual who is able to identify and resolve accounting discrepancies in a timely manner. [He/She] is also a great team player who is always willing to share [his/her] knowledge with colleagues. [His/Her] positive attitude and strong work ethic make [him/her] a valuable member of any team.
I strongly believe that [Applicant’s Name] has the skills and qualifications to excel in the accounting position and I highly recommend [him/her] for the role.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Signature]
Example 4: Character Reference for Marketing Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the marketing position. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to [his/her] outstanding marketing skills and creativity.
[Applicant’s Name] is a highly motivated individual who is always thinking outside the box. [He/She] has a proven track record of executing successful marketing campaigns that have resulted in increased brand awareness and sales. [His/Her] ability to work well under pressure and deliver results make [him/her] an asset to any marketing team.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the marketing position and have no doubt that [he/she] will exceed your expectations.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Signature]
Example 5: Character Reference for IT Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the IT position. I have had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to [his/her] excellent technical skills and problem-solving abilities.
[Applicant’s Name] is a highly knowledgeable individual who is up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in the industry. [He/She] has a proven track record of resolving complex technical issues in a timely and efficient manner. [His/Her] ability to work well under pressure and collaborate with team members make [him/her] a valuable member of any IT team.
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the IT position and have no doubt that [he/she] will be an asset to your organization.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Signature]
Example 6: Character Reference for Legal Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the legal position. I have had the pleasure of working with [Applicant’s Name] for [Number of Years] years and can attest to [his/her] excellent legal skills and attention to detail.
[Applicant’s Name] is a highly skilled attorney who is able to provide expert advice and guidance on a wide range of legal issues. [He/She] has a proven track record of successfully representing clients in court and negotiations. [His/Her] strong work ethic and ability to work well under pressure make [him/her] a valuable member of any legal team.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the legal position and have no doubt that [he/she] will be an asset to your organization.
Best regards,
[Your Name and Signature]
Tips for Creating a Strong Character Reference for Job Application
When creating a character reference for a job application, follow these tips to ensure that your letter is persuasive and effective:
- Explain how you know the applicant and how long you have known them.
- Describe the applicant’s character traits, work ethic, and skills that relate to the job they are applying for.
- Provide specific examples of the applicant’s accomplishments or projects that demonstrate their abilities.
- Be honest and objective in your assessment of the applicant.
- Include your contact information in case the employer needs to verify your reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a character reference letter?
A character reference letter should include your relationship with the applicant, your assessment of their character traits, work ethic, and skills that relate to the job they are applying for, and specific examples that demonstrate their abilities.
Who can write a character reference letter?
A character reference letter can be written by anyone who knows the applicant well and can speak to their abilities and qualities. This can include colleagues, supervisors, teachers, or personal acquaintances.
How many character references should I provide?
Check the job listing or ask the employer how many character references they require. Typically, three references are sufficient.
Should I include negative information in a character reference letter?
No, a character reference letter should only include positive information about the applicant. If you cannot provide a positive reference, it is best to decline the request.
How long should a character reference letter be?
A character reference letter should be one to two pages long and include specific examples that demonstrate the applicant’s skills and qualities.
What should I do if I am asked to provide a character reference but do not feel comfortable doing so?
If you do not feel comfortable providing a character reference, it is best to decline the request. Be honest with the requester and explain that you do not feel qualified to provide an assessment of the applicant’s character or work ethic.
Conclusion
Providing character references is an important part of the job application process. A strong character reference letter can help to demonstrate your abilities and qualities that make you a great candidate for the job. Use the examples and tips provided in this article to create a persuasive and effective character reference letter.