If you’ve been asked to write a character reference letter for a relative, it’s important to understand how to structure and write an effective letter. A character reference letter is a document that provides information about a person’s character, personality, and skills. It’s often required when applying for a job, school, or other opportunities. In this article, we’ll provide you with examples and tips for creating a strong character reference letter for a relative.
Examples of Sample Character Reference Letters for a Relative
Sample Letter for a Niece Applying to College
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter in support of my niece, Sarah, who is applying to your college. I have known Sarah since she was born and have watched her grow into a kind, intelligent, and responsible young woman. She has always been one to go above and beyond in her studies and extracurriculars. In high school, Sarah was involved in various clubs and volunteer programs, and she always maintained a high GPA.
I wholeheartedly recommend Sarah for admission to your college. She is driven, hardworking, and will undoubtedly make a positive impact on your campus community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
Aunt Jane
Sample Letter for a Cousin Seeking Employment
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend my cousin, Michael, for the position of Sales Associate at your company. I have known Michael for his entire life and have always admired his determination, work ethic, and interpersonal skills. He has a natural ability to connect with people and would be an excellent addition to your team.
Michael is a hardworking and ambitious individual who always strives to exceed expectations. He has a proven track record of success in his previous sales roles and has consistently exceeded sales quotas.
I highly recommend Michael for the Sales Associate position at your company. He would be an asset to your team and would undoubtedly excel in this role. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or require any further information.
Sincerely,
Cousin Susan
Sample Letter for a Son’s Immigration Case
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of my son, David, who is currently applying for immigration to the United States. David has always been an upstanding citizen in his home country and has never been in any legal trouble. He is a hardworking individual who always strives to do his best and is driven by a desire to provide for his family.
David is a loving son, husband, and father, and his presence in the United States would be a great asset to our family and community. He is a skilled carpenter and has extensive experience in the construction industry. He would undoubtedly make a positive contribution to the U.S. workforce.
I strongly recommend David for immigration to the United States. He is a highly skilled and motivated individual who would be an excellent addition to our country. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
Father John
Sample Letter for a Nephew’s Scholarship Application
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend my nephew, John, for the scholarship that your organization is offering. John is an exceptional student who has always maintained a high GPA and has been involved in various extracurricular activities. He is currently pursuing a degree in engineering and has expressed a strong interest in the field of renewable energy.
John is a dedicated and hardworking individual who has always gone above and beyond in his studies. He is passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and has volunteered his time with various organizations to promote sustainability.
I highly recommend John for the scholarship that your organization is offering. He is a deserving candidate who would make the most of this opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Aunt Rachel
Sample Letter for a Daughter’s Child Custody Case
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of my daughter, Emily, in her child custody case. Emily is a devoted mother who has always put the needs of her children first. She is kind, nurturing, and has provided a stable and loving home for her children.
Emily is a hardworking individual who has always provided for her family. She is a dedicated teacher who has received numerous accolades for her work in the classroom. She is also active in her community and volunteers her time with various organizations.
I strongly recommend that Emily be granted custody of her children. She is a loving and capable mother who would do anything to ensure the well-being of her children. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
Mother Elizabeth
Sample Letter for a Grandson’s Adoption
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of my grandson, William, who is currently being considered for adoption. William has been a part of our family for his entire life, and we have watched him grow into a kind, intelligent, and loving young boy.
William has faced numerous challenges in his life, including health issues and familial instability. Despite these challenges, he has remained resilient and has always maintained a positive outlook on life. He is a loving and affectionate child who has a great capacity for empathy and understanding.
I highly recommend William for adoption. He is a wonderful child who deserves to be a part of a loving and stable family. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Grandmother Margaret
Tips for Writing a Sample Character Reference Letter for a Relative
Be Specific
When writing a character reference letter, it’s important to be specific about the person’s traits and qualities. Provide examples of situations where the person demonstrated their skills or personality traits. Avoid vague or general statements, as they do not provide the reader with a clear understanding of the person’s character.
Use Formal Language
A character reference letter should be written in a formal tone of voice. Use appropriate salutations and avoid using slang or casual language. The letter should be well-written and free of grammatical errors.
Be Honest
It’s important to be honest when writing a character reference letter. Do not exaggerate or embellish the person’s qualities or skills. If you are unable to provide a positive recommendation, it’s better to decline the request than to provide a negative reference.
Provide Contact Information
Include your contact information in the character reference letter, so the reader can contact you if they have any questions or require further information. This will also give the letter more credibility and show that you are willing to vouch for the person’s character.
Proofread the Letter
Before submitting the letter, make sure to proofread it for errors and ensure that it’s well-written and coherent. A poorly written letter can hurt the person’s chances of being accepted for the opportunity they are applying for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference letter?
A character reference letter is a document that provides information about a person’s character, personality, and skills. It’s often required when applying for a job, school, or other opportunities.
What should be included in a character reference letter?
A character reference letter should include specific examples of the person’s skills and personality traits. It should be well-written, free of errors, and written in a formal tone of voice. The letter should also include contact information for the person writing the reference.
How long should a character reference letter be?
A character reference letter should be 40 to 50 sentences long. It should be long enough to provide sufficient detail about the person but not too long that it becomes repetitive or loses the reader’s attention.
How should I greet the recipient of the letter?
You should use a different greeting for each letter, depending on the context and recipient. Use appropriate salutations and avoid using slang or casual language.
Should I be honest in a character reference letter?
Yes, it’s important to be honest when writing a character reference letter. Do not exaggerate or embellish the person’s qualities or skills. If you are unable to provide a positive recommendation, it’s better to decline the request than to provide a negative reference.
What should I do after writing a character reference letter?
You should proofread the letter for errors and ensure that it’s well-written and coherent. Once you’re satisfied with the letter, you should submit it to the appropriate recipient and make yourself available for any follow-up questions or information.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference letter for a relative can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding experience. By following the tips and using the examples provided in this article, you can create a strong and effective letter that will help your relative achieve their goals.