If you need to write a character reference letter for an employee, you may feel unsure about how to start. A character reference template can help you to organize your thoughts and write an effective letter. In this article, we’ll provide you with examples of character reference templates for employees, as well as some tips for writing a great letter.
Examples of Character Reference Templates for Employees
Character Reference Template for Employee – Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [employee’s name] for the [position] role in your company. I have had the pleasure of working with [employee’s name] for [length of time] and have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] dedication, work ethic and positive attitude.
[Employee’s name] is a highly skilled [job title] who has demonstrated an ability to [skill or achievement]. [He/She/They] consistently goes above and beyond to meet the expectations of our clients and colleagues.
I highly recommend [employee’s name] for the [position] role in your company. [He/She/They] would be a valuable addition to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Template for Employee – Promotion
Dear [Employee’s Name],
I am writing to express my wholehearted support for your promotion to [position]. In the [length of time] I have known and worked with you, I have consistently been impressed by your professionalism, expertise, and positive attitude.
You have an outstanding ability to [skill or achievement], and your commitment to excellence is clear to all who work with you. I have no doubt that you would excel in the role of [position] and make a significant contribution to the success of our team.
It gives me great pleasure to recommend you for this promotion.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Template for Employee – Graduate School Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [employee’s name] for admission to [graduate program]. I have had the pleasure of working with [employee’s name] in [context] and have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] intelligence, creativity, and dedication to [field of study].
[Employee’s name] has a natural talent for [skill or achievement], and [he/she/they] has demonstrated an ability to [skill or achievement]. [He/She/They] is a highly motivated individual who excels at working independently or as part of a team.
I highly recommend [employee’s name] for admission to [graduate program]. [He/She/They] would be a valuable addition to your program.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Template for Employee – Rental Application
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [employee’s name] as a tenant for your rental property. I have had the pleasure of knowing [employee’s name] for [length of time], and have always found [him/her/they] to be responsible, reliable, and respectful.
[Employee’s name] is an excellent communicator who has always been prompt with [his/her/their] rent and other financial obligations. [He/She/They] takes great pride in [his/her/their] home and has always kept [his/her/their] living space clean and tidy.
I am confident that [employee’s name] would be an outstanding tenant and would take excellent care of your property.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Template for Employee – Court Appearance
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [employee’s name] in relation to [court case]. I have known [employee’s name] for [length of time] and have always found [him/her/they] to be a person of high moral character and integrity.
[Employee’s name] is a responsible, law-abiding citizen who has always been respectful of authority and the rule of law. [He/She/They] is a reliable and trustworthy person who I would not hesitate to vouch for in any situation.
I hope that you will take [employee’s name]’s character into account when making your decision.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Template for Employee – Volunteer Position
Dear [Organization Name],
I am writing to recommend [employee’s name] for the [volunteer position] role in your organization. I have had the pleasure of working with [employee’s name] for [length of time] and have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] dedication, work ethic, and positive attitude.
[Employee’s name] is a highly skilled [job title] who has demonstrated an ability to [skill or achievement]. [He/She/They] consistently goes above and beyond to support our community and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
I highly recommend [employee’s name] for the [volunteer position] role in your organization. [He/She/They] would be a valuable asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Great Character Reference Letter
1. Be Specific
Provide specific examples of the employee’s skills, achievements, and personal qualities that make them a great candidate for the opportunity in question. Avoid vague or general statements.
2. Focus on Relevant Qualities
Make sure that the qualities you highlight are relevant to the opportunity in question. For example, if you are writing a character reference letter for a job application, focus on the employee’s professional skills and work ethic.
3. Use a Professional Tone
Write your letter in a professional tone, using correct grammar and spelling. Avoid using slang or informal language.
4. Use Letterhead or Professional Formatting
If possible, use letterhead or professional formatting to make your letter look polished and official.
5. Edit and Proofread
Take the time to edit and proofread your letter carefully. Check for errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
6. Offer to Provide Additional Information
Include your contact information and offer to provide additional information if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Include in a Character Reference Letter?
A character reference letter should include specific examples of the employee’s skills, achievements, and personal qualities. It should also be written in a professional tone, with correct grammar and spelling.
How Long Should a Character Reference Letter Be?
A character reference letter should be between 40 and 50 sentences long, or about 1-2 pages.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Know the Employee Well?
If you don’t know the employee well, you should decline the request to write a character reference letter. It is important that the letter writer has a genuine relationship with the employee and is able to provide accurate and relevant information.
Can I Use a Character Reference Template for Different Opportunities?
Yes, you can use a character reference template for different opportunities. However, you should customize the letter for each opportunity and include specific examples that are relevant to the position or opportunity in question.
Should I Address the Letter to a Specific Person?
If possible, you should address the letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or admissions committee. This can help to make the letter more personal and effective.
Can I Provide a Character Reference for Myself?
No, it is not appropriate to provide a character reference for yourself. This type of letter should be written by someone who knows you well and can vouch for your skills, achievements, and personal qualities.
Conclusion
A character reference template can be a helpful tool when writing a letter for an employee. By following our tips and using the examples provided, you can write an effective letter that highlights the employee’s strengths and makes a positive impression on the reader.