When it comes to vouching for someone’s character, a reference letter of character can be a powerful tool. Whether it’s for a job application, rental application, or any other situation where someone needs to prove they have a good character, a well-written reference letter can make all the difference.
In this article, we’ll provide tips on how to write an effective reference letter of character, along with seven examples you can use as a guide. Additionally, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about this type of letter.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter of Character
When writing a reference letter of character, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Be specific: Provide specific examples of the person’s good character traits.
- Be honest: Only write a reference letter if you truly believe the person has a good character.
- Be professional: Use a professional tone and format.
- Include your contact information: Make it easy for the reader to contact you if they have any questions.
- Proofread: Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Examples of Reference Letters of Character
Reference Letter of Character for a Job Application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. In the time I have known [Applicant’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by their [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
[Applicant’s Name] is always willing to [action the applicant is willing to take], and they consistently [action the applicant consistently takes]. They are also [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
I wholeheartedly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the position of [Job Title]. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter of Character for a Rental Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Renter’s Name] as a tenant. In the time I have known [Renter’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by their [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
[Renter’s Name] is always [action the renter consistently takes], and they consistently [action the renter consistently takes]. They are also [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
I believe that [Renter’s Name] would make an excellent tenant and would take great care of your property. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter of Character for a Volunteer Position
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Volunteer’s Name] as a volunteer for [Organization Name]. In the time I have worked with [Volunteer’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by their [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
[Volunteer’s Name] is always willing to [action the volunteer is willing to take], and they consistently [action the volunteer consistently takes]. They are also [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
I believe that [Volunteer’s Name] would be an asset to your organization and I highly recommend them for any volunteer position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter of Character for a College Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] for admission to [College Name]. In the time I have taught [Student’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by their [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
[Student’s Name] is always [action the student consistently takes], and they consistently [action the student consistently takes]. They are also [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
I believe that [Student’s Name] would make an excellent addition to your college community and I highly recommend them for admission. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter of Character for a Court Case
Dear Honorable Judge,
I am writing to express my support for [Defendant’s Name] in their upcoming court case. In the time I have known [Defendant’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by their [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
[Defendant’s Name] is always [action the defendant consistently takes], and they consistently [action the defendant consistently takes]. They are also [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
I believe that [Defendant’s Name] is a person of good character and I ask that you take this into consideration when making your decision. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter of Character for a Child Custody Case
Dear Judge,
I am writing to express my support for [Parent’s Name] in their child custody case. In the time I have known [Parent’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by their [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
[Parent’s Name] is always [action the parent consistently takes], and they consistently [action the parent consistently takes]. They are also [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
I believe that [Parent’s Name] is a dedicated and loving parent and I ask that you take this into consideration when making your decision. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter of Character for a Professional License Application
Dear Licensing Board,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for a [Type of License] license. In the time I have worked with [Applicant’s Name], I have been consistently impressed by their [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
[Applicant’s Name] is always [action the applicant consistently takes], and they consistently [action the applicant consistently takes]. They are also [positive character trait], [positive character trait], and [positive character trait].
I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be an asset to your profession and I highly recommend them for a [Type of License] license. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a reference letter of character?
A reference letter of character should include specific examples of the person’s good character traits, as well as your contact information for any follow-up questions.
What should I avoid including in a reference letter of character?
Avoid including anything that is not true or that you cannot personally attest to. Additionally, avoid including any information that is not relevant to the person’s character.
Who should I address a reference letter of character to?
The letter should be addressed to whoever will be reading it. For example, if it’s for a job application, address it to the hiring manager. If it’s for a rental application, address it to the landlord.
Can I write a reference letter for someone I don’t know well?
No. Only write a reference letter for someone whose character you can personally attest to.
How long should a reference letter of character be?
A reference letter of character should be one to two pages long.
Do I need to sign a reference letter of character?
Yes. Always sign a reference letter of character and include your contact information.
Conclusion
A reference letter of character can be a powerful tool in proving someone’s good character. By following our tips and using our examples, you can write an effective reference letter of character that will help someone achieve their goals.