When it comes to applying for a job, having a strong character reference can make all the difference. Many employers consider a character reference just as important as a professional reference, as it gives them insight into your personality, work ethic, and personal values. In this article, we’ll provide tips and examples of sample character references that you can include in your resume to help you stand out from the crowd.
Tips for Including a Character Reference in Your Resume
If you’re considering including a character reference in your resume, follow these tips:
- Choose someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your character
- Make sure the person is professional and respected in their field
- Ask the person for permission before including them as a reference
- Provide the person with a copy of your resume and job description
- Thank the person for their time and support
Remember, the goal of a character reference is to provide the employer with additional insight into your personality and work ethic, so choose your references wisely.
Examples of Sample Character References in a Resume
Sample Character Reference from a Former Manager
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to highly recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As [Your Name’s] former manager at [Previous Company], I had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [length of time]. During this time, I was consistently impressed with [his/her] work ethic, attention to detail, and positive attitude.
[Your Name] is a natural leader who inspires others to do their best work. [He/She] consistently exceeded expectations and was always willing to go above and beyond to get the job done. I have no doubt that [he/she] will be an asset to your team and will thrive in [his/her] new role at [Company Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Former Manager’s Name]
Sample Character Reference from a Colleague
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [length of time] at [Previous Company], and can attest to [his/her] exceptional work ethic, attention to detail, and positive attitude.
[Your Name] is a team player who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that projects are completed on time and to the highest standard. [He/She] is a quick learner who is always willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities. [His/Her] positive attitude and excellent communication skills make [him/her] a pleasure to work with.
I am confident that [Your Name] will be a valuable addition to your team and will excel in [his/her] new role at [Company Name].
Best regards,
[Your Colleague’s Name]
Sample Character Reference from a Teacher
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to highly recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As [his/her] former teacher at [School Name], I had the pleasure of watching [him/her] grow into a responsible, hardworking, and dedicated individual.
[Your Name] was an outstanding student who always went above and beyond in [his/her] academic and extracurricular pursuits. [He/She] demonstrated excellent leadership skills, was well-respected by [his/her] peers, and consistently set a positive example for others to follow.
I am confident that [Your Name] will bring the same level of dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to [his/her] new role at [Company Name]. [He/She] is a true asset to any team and I strongly recommend [him/her] for the position.
Sincerely,
[Your Teacher’s Name]
Sample Character Reference from a Community Leader
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to highly recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a community leader in [City/Town], I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] on a number of projects and initiatives over the past few years.
[Your Name] is a dedicated, hardworking, and enthusiastic individual who always gives [his/her] best effort to every project [he/she] undertakes. [He/She] is an excellent communicator who is able to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
I have no doubt that [Your Name] will be an asset to your team and will excel in [his/her] new role at [Company Name]. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Best regards,
[Your Community Leader’s Name]
Sample Character Reference from a Mentor
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As [his/her] mentor for the past [length of time], I have had the pleasure of watching [him/her] grow both personally and professionally.
[Your Name] is a dedicated, hardworking, and enthusiastic individual who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. [He/She] is a quick learner who is able to adapt to new situations and challenges with ease.
[Your Name] is also an excellent communicator who is able to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. [He/She] has a strong sense of integrity and is always willing to go above and beyond to help others.
I am confident that [Your Name] will be a valuable addition to your team and will bring a unique perspective and skillset to [his/her] new role at [Company Name].
Best regards,
[Your Mentor’s Name]
Sample Character Reference from a Volunteer Supervisor
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to highly recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As [his/her] volunteer supervisor at [Organization Name], I had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [length of time].
[Your Name] is a dedicated, hardworking, and enthusiastic individual who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that projects are completed to the highest standard. [He/She] is an excellent communicator who is able to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
[Your Name] is also a natural leader who is able to inspire others to do their best work. [He/She] is well-respected by [his/her] peers and consistently sets a positive example for others to follow.
I am confident that [Your Name] will be an asset to your team and will thrive in [his/her] new role at [Company Name]. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Best regards,
[Your Volunteer Supervisor’s Name]
Sample Character Reference from a Personal Contact
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As [his/her] longtime friend, I have had the pleasure of seeing [him/her] grow both personally and professionally over the years.
[Your Name] is a kind, honest, and hardworking individual who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. [He/She] is a quick learner who is able to adapt to new situations and challenges with ease.
[Your Name] is also an excellent communicator who is able to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. [He/She] has a strong sense of integrity and is always willing to go above and beyond to help others.
I have no doubt that [Your Name] will be an asset to your team and will excel in [his/her] new role at [Company Name]. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Best regards,
[Your Personal Contact’s Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference in a resume?
A character reference is a letter of recommendation that speaks to your personality, work ethic, and personal values. It is typically written by someone who knows you well and can vouch for your character, and is often included in a resume or job application to provide the employer with additional insight into your qualifications.
Who should I ask for a character reference?
You should choose someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your character, work ethic, and personal values. This could be a former employer, colleague, teacher, mentor, or personal contact.
How do I ask someone to be a character reference?
You should ask the person for permission before including them as a reference. Provide them with a copy of your resume and job description, and ask if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. Be sure to thank them for their time and support.
What information should be included in a character reference?
A character reference should include your name, the person’s name and contact information, the nature of your relationship, and details about your character, work ethic, and personal values. It should also include any relevant examples or anecdotes that speak to your qualifications for the job.
Do I need a character reference for every job I apply for?
No, you do not need a character reference for every job you apply for. However, if you feel that a character reference would be beneficial in demonstrating your qualifications and personality, it is certainly worth considering.
Should I submit my character reference with my resume?
Yes, you should submit your character reference with your resume if the job application explicitly asks for it. If it does not, you can still include it in your application materials or bring it to the interview as a supplementary document.
Conclusion
Including a character reference in your resume can be a powerful way to demonstrate your personality, work ethic, and personal values to potential employers. By following these tips and using the sample character references provided, you can increase your chances of standing out from the crowd and landing your dream job.