If you are applying for a job, you may be asked to provide character references. These references are letters that vouch for your character and work ethic. It’s important to choose references who can speak to your strengths and abilities. Below are some examples of character references for a job that you can use as a guide. Feel free to edit them as needed for your specific situation.
Example 1: Character Reference for a Manager
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for a management position at your company. I have had the pleasure of working with [Your Name] for [time period] at [previous company]. During this time, I have been impressed with [Your Name]’s strong leadership skills and ability to motivate and inspire the team.
[Your Name] consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a willingness to go above and beyond to ensure the success of the team. [He/She] is a natural problem solver and has the ability to think creatively to find solutions to complex challenges.
I have no doubt that [Your Name] would be an asset to your company and would excel in a management role. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Character Reference for a Sales Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for a sales position at your company. I have known [Your Name] for [time period] and have been impressed with [his/her] professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to achieving results.
[Your Name] has a natural ability to connect with customers and build strong relationships. [He/She] is skilled at identifying customer needs and finding creative solutions to meet those needs. [He/She] is also a natural communicator and has the ability to explain complex products and services in a way that is easy for customers to understand.
I am confident that [Your Name] would be a valuable addition to your sales team and would make significant contributions to the success of your company. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Character Reference for an Administrative Assistant
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for the position of administrative assistant at your company. I have had the pleasure of working with [Your Name] for [time period] and have been consistently impressed with [his/her] organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
[Your Name] is a quick learner who is able to adapt to new systems and processes with ease. [He/She] is also a team player who is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the success of the team. [He/She] is a skilled communicator who is able to interact with people at all levels of the organization.
I have no doubt that [Your Name] would excel in the role of administrative assistant and would be a valuable member of your team. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Character Reference for a Teacher
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for a teaching position at your school. I have known [Your Name] for [time period] and have been consistently impressed with [his/her] passion for teaching and ability to connect with students.
[Your Name] is a natural educator who is able to make complex concepts easy for students to understand. [He/She] is also skilled at identifying students’ strengths and weaknesses and finding ways to help them reach their full potential. [He/She] is a dedicated and hardworking teacher who is always looking for ways to improve [his/her] teaching practice.
I am confident that [Your Name] would be an excellent addition to your teaching staff and would make a positive impact on the lives of your students. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Character Reference for a Law Enforcement Officer
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for a law enforcement position with your agency. I had the honor of working with [Your Name] for [time period] and witnessed [his/her] exemplary character, professionalism, and dedication to duty.
[Your Name] is a highly skilled and experienced law enforcement officer who has a reputation for excellence in [area of expertise]. [He/She] has a deep understanding of the law and is able to apply it in a fair and impartial manner. [He/She] is also a skilled communicator who is able to interact with people from all walks of life.
I have no doubt that [Your Name] would be an asset to your agency and would serve with honor and distinction. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Character Reference for a Volunteer
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for a volunteer position with your organization. I have had the pleasure of working with [Your Name] for [time period] and have been consistently impressed with [his/her] dedication, enthusiasm, and positive attitude.
[Your Name] is a natural leader who is able to motivate and inspire others to get involved. [He/She] is also a skilled communicator who is able to articulate the mission and goals of your organization in a way that resonates with others. [He/She] is a reliable and hardworking volunteer who is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the success of your programs.
I am confident that [Your Name] would be an excellent addition to your volunteer team and would make a significant contribution to the success of your organization. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing Character References for a Job
When writing a character reference for a job, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Choose people who know you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities.
- Make sure the person writing the reference has a professional tone and is familiar with the requirements of the job you are applying for.
- Provide the writer with information about the job and company to help them tailor their letter to the position.
- Make sure the writer includes their name, position, and contact information in the letter.
- Thank the writer for their time and effort in writing the reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference for a job?
A character reference for a job is a letter that vouches for your character and work ethic. It is usually written by someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities.
Who should I ask to write a character reference for me?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities. This could be a former boss, coworker, teacher, or volunteer supervisor.
What should be included in a character reference?
A character reference should include information about your character, work ethic, and abilities. It should also include the writer’s name, position, and contact information.
How many character references do I need?
This varies depending on the job and company. Some companies may require three references, while others may only require one. Check the job posting or ask the hiring manager for guidance.
Do character references need to be notarized?
No, character references do not need to be notarized. However, some companies may require that the reference be on official letterhead or include the writer’s contact information.
Can I write my own character reference?
No, it is not appropriate to write your own character reference. It should be written by someone else who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and abilities.
Conclusion
Character references can be a valuable addition to your job application. They provide the hiring manager with an outside perspective on your character and work ethic. Use the examples and tips above as a guide for writing your own character references.