If you need a character reference, it can be helpful to use a template to guide your request. A well-written character reference can make a big difference in the outcome of a job application or legal proceeding. In this article, we’ll provide you with a Character Reference Request Template and give you some tips for writing an effective request.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Request
Before we get to the template, here are some things to keep in mind when writing a character reference request:
- Be clear about why you need the character reference and what it will be used for.
- Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your character and abilities.
- Provide the person with any necessary information about the position or situation for which you’re applying.
- Thank the person in advance for their time and effort.
- Offer to provide any additional information the person may need.
You can find examples of Character Reference Request Templates online, and you can edit them as needed to fit your specific situation. Here’s an example template to get you started:
Character Reference Request Template
Greeting,
I hope this letter finds you well. I’m writing to request a character reference for a job application I’m submitting. The position is [insert position] at [insert company], and I believe your input would be valuable to the hiring process.
[Insert a paragraph about why you’re asking this person specifically for a reference. For example, “I worked closely with you on a project last year and I think you can speak to my ability to work collaboratively and meet deadlines.”]
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about the position.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Complimentary close
Examples of Character Reference Request Templates
Here are seven examples of Character Reference Request Templates for different situations:
Example 1: Character Reference for a Job Application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I’m applying for the [insert position] at [insert company], and I would like to request a character reference from you. I worked with you on a project last year and I believe you can speak to my ability to work collaboratively and meet deadlines.
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about the position.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Character Reference for a Rental Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I’m applying for a rental unit at [insert address], and I would like to request a character reference from you. I’ve been a tenant at [current address] for [insert length of time], and I believe you can speak to my responsible and respectful behavior as a tenant.
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about my tenancy.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Character Reference for a Volunteer Position
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],
I’m interested in volunteering with [insert organization], and I would like to request a character reference from you. I’ve been involved with several volunteer projects in the past and I believe you can speak to my reliability and dedication.
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about the volunteer position.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Character Reference for a Child Custody Case
Dear [Judge’s Name],
I’m writing to request a character reference for a child custody case. I believe [insert name of person you’re requesting the reference from] can speak to my ability to provide a stable and nurturing home environment for my children.
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about the case.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Character Reference for a College Application
Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],
I’m applying to [insert college or university], and I would like to request a character reference from you. I worked with you on a research project last year and I believe you can speak to my academic potential and leadership skills.
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about the college or the application process.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Character Reference for a Court Case
Dear [Judge’s Name],
I’m writing to request a character reference for a court case. I believe [insert name of person you’re requesting the reference from] can speak to my honesty and integrity.
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about the case.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Character Reference for a Scholarship Application
Dear [Scholarship Committee’s Name],
I’m applying for the [insert name of scholarship], and I would like to request a character reference from you. I volunteered with your organization last year and I believe you can speak to my commitment to community service and academic achievement.
If you’re able to provide a reference, I would greatly appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any questions or need more information about the scholarship.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask someone for a character reference?
To ask someone for a character reference, you should be clear about why you need the reference and provide the person with any necessary information about the position or situation. Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your character and abilities. Thank the person in advance for their time and effort, and offer to provide any additional information the person may need. You can use a template to guide your request.
Who should I ask for a character reference?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your character and abilities. This could be a former employer, colleague, teacher, coach, or mentor. Make sure the person is willing and able to provide a reference before you ask.
What should a character reference include?
A character reference should include the person’s name, relationship to you, and their observations about your character, abilities, and achievements. It should also include any relevant examples or anecdotes that support their observations.
How many character references do I need?
The number of character references you need will depend on the situation. In most cases, one or two references should be sufficient. Make sure you choose people who can provide different perspectives on your character and abilities.
Can I use a family member as a character reference?
It’s generally not recommended to use a family member as a character reference, as they may be biased. It’s better to choose someone who is not related to you and can provide an objective assessment of your character and abilities.
How should I thank someone for providing a character reference?
You should thank the person in writing, either by email or a handwritten note. Be specific about what you appreciate about their reference, and let them know how it helped you. You can also offer to return the favor in the future.
Conclusion
Using a Character Reference Request Template can help you write an effective request for a reference. Remember to choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your character and abilities, and provide them with any necessary information about the position or situation. Thank the person in advance for their time and effort, and offer to provide any additional information they may need. With these tips and examples, you can write a compelling character reference request that will help you achieve your goals.