If you’ve been asked to write a character reference letter, it’s important to know how to structure it properly. In this article, we will provide an outline for writing a character reference letter, as well as tips and examples that you can use to help you get started.
A character reference letter is a type of recommendation letter that is used to vouch for someone’s character and integrity. It is often used in situations where a person is applying for a job, a volunteer position, or a place to live. The purpose of the letter is to provide an honest assessment of the person’s character and to vouch for their trustworthiness and reliability.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter
When writing a character reference letter, it is important to follow these tips:
1. Start with a Title
Begin the letter with a clear and concise title that accurately reflects the purpose of the letter.
2. Use a Formal Tone
The letter should be written in a formal tone, but it can still be friendly and personable.
3. Address the Recipient Appropriately
Address the recipient of the letter in a formal manner, using their full name and title if possible.
4. Be Honest and Specific
Use specific examples to illustrate the person’s character and integrity, and be honest about both their strengths and weaknesses.
5. Edit and Proofread Carefully
Before sending the letter, edit and proofread it carefully to ensure that it is error-free and reads smoothly.
6. Provide Contact Information
Include your contact information at the end of the letter, so that the recipient can reach out to you if they have any questions or need further information.
7. Use Examples and Templates
You can find examples and templates online to help you get started with writing your letter. Use them as a starting point, but be sure to personalize the letter for the person you are recommending.
Examples of Character Reference Letter Outlines
Here are seven examples of character reference letter outlines that you can use as a starting point for your own letter:
Character Reference Letter for a Job Applicant
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Name] for the position of [Job Title]. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Trait #1], [Positive Trait #2], and [Positive Trait #3].
[Example of how the person demonstrated these traits].
Based on my experience working with [Name], I am confident that they would be an excellent addition to your team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Student
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Name] for admission to your university. I have had the pleasure of teaching [Name] in [Course Name] for [Number of Semesters], and in that time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Trait #1], [Positive Trait #2], and [Positive Trait #3].
[Example of how the person demonstrated these traits].
I am confident that [Name] would thrive in your academic environment, and I strongly recommend them for admission to your university. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Volunteer
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend [Name] for a volunteer position with your organization. I have had the pleasure of working with [Name] on [Project Name] for [Number of Months], and in that time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Trait #1], [Positive Trait #2], and [Positive Trait #3].
[Example of how the person demonstrated these traits].
I am confident that [Name] would be an asset to your organization and an excellent volunteer. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Personal Contact
Dear [Recipient],
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a personal contact. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Trait #1], [Positive Trait #2], and [Positive Trait #3].
[Example of how the person demonstrated these traits].
I am confident that [Name] would be a valuable and trustworthy contact for you. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Rental Application
Dear Landlord,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a tenant for your property. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Trait #1], [Positive Trait #2], and [Positive Trait #3].
[Example of how the person demonstrated these traits].
I am confident that [Name] would be an excellent tenant and would take good care of your property. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Friend
Dear [Recipient],
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a friend. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Trait #1], [Positive Trait #2], and [Positive Trait #3].
[Example of how the person demonstrated these traits].
I am confident that [Name] would be a loyal and trustworthy friend to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Child Custody Case
Dear Judge,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a parent in a child custody case. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Trait #1], [Positive Trait #2], and [Positive Trait #3].
[Example of how the person demonstrated these traits].
I believe that [Name] would be a loving and responsible parent, and I strongly recommend them in this custody case. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a character reference letter?
A character reference letter should include specific examples of the person’s character and integrity, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. It should also provide contact information for the writer, so that the recipient can reach out if they have any questions.
How long should a character reference letter be?
A character reference letter should be one page or less, and should include specific examples that illustrate the person’s character and integrity.
Who can write a character reference letter?
Anyone who knows the person well and can vouch for their character and integrity can write a character reference letter. This could include teachers, employers, colleagues, or personal contacts.
What should I do if I don’t feel comfortable writing a character reference letter?
If you don’t feel comfortable writing a character reference letter, it is best to decline the request politely. It is important to be honest and only write a letter if you feel that you can provide an accurate assessment of the person’s character.
Can I use a template for a character reference letter?
Yes, you can use a template for a character reference letter. However, it is important to personalize the letter for the person you are recommending, and to include specific examples that illustrate their character and integrity.
What should I do if I receive a character reference letter that I don’t agree with?
If you receive a character reference letter that you don’t agree with, it is important to speak to the writer and express your concerns. It may be possible to work together to revise the letter or come to a better understanding of the person’s character.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference letter can be a valuable way to vouch for someone’s character and integrity. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can create a letter that accurately reflects the person’s strengths and provides an honest assessment of their character.