If you have been asked to write a character reference for someone who is applying for a job, it’s important to understand what a character reference is and how to write one effectively. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing a character reference and provide tips and examples to help you create a compelling letter.
What is a character reference?
A character reference is a letter that provides information about a person’s character, personality, and work ethic. Unlike a professional reference, which typically comes from a former employer or coworker, a character reference can come from anyone who knows the individual well, such as a friend, neighbor, or community leader.
If you have been asked to write a character reference for a job, it’s important to take the request seriously. Your letter could make the difference between the candidate getting hired or being passed over for the position.
Tips for writing a character reference letter
When writing a character reference letter, there are some key elements you should include:
1. Start with a clear title
Begin your letter with a clear title that indicates you are writing a character reference for a job application. This will help the recipient understand the purpose of your letter.
2. Use a professional format
Use a professional letter format, including your contact information, the date, and a salutation. Address the letter to the hiring manager or recruiter who requested the reference.
3. Explain your relationship to the candidate
Begin by explaining how you know the candidate and how long you have known them. This will help establish your credibility and give context to your letter.
4. Highlight the candidate’s strengths
In the body of your letter, focus on the candidate’s strengths and positive qualities. Provide specific examples that demonstrate the candidate’s character and work ethic.
5. Be honest
While it’s important to highlight the candidate’s strengths, it’s equally important to be honest in your assessment. Don’t exaggerate or make false claims about the candidate’s abilities or character.
6. Edit and proofread
Before submitting your letter, make sure to edit and proofread it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure the letter is well-organized and easy to read.
7. Offer to answer questions
End your letter by offering to answer any questions the hiring manager or recruiter may have about the candidate. This will show that you are invested in the candidate’s success and willing to provide additional information if needed.
Examples of character reference letters for job applications
Character reference for a customer service position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the customer service position at your company. I have known [Candidate’s Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their excellent communication skills, friendly demeanor, and commitment to helping others.
[Provide specific examples of the candidate’s customer service skills, such as resolving customer complaints or going above and beyond to meet customer needs. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.]
I have no doubt that [Candidate’s Name] would be an asset to your team and would excel in a customer service role. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions about [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications or character.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Character reference for a sales position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the sales position at your company. I have known [Candidate’s Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their outstanding sales skills, professionalism, and ability to build strong relationships with clients.
[Provide specific examples of the candidate’s sales achievements, such as exceeding sales quotas or winning new business. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.]
I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] would be a valuable addition to your sales team and would contribute to the company’s growth and success. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications or character.
Thank you for your time,
[Your Name]
Character reference for a teaching position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the teaching position at your school. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate’s Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their passion for education, creativity, and dedication to their students.
[Provide specific examples of the candidate’s teaching abilities, such as designing engaging lesson plans or providing individualized support to students. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.]
I believe that [Candidate’s Name] would be an outstanding addition to your teaching staff and would make a positive impact on the lives of their students. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions about [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications or character.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character reference for a project management position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the project management position at your company. I have worked with [Candidate’s Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their exceptional organizational skills, ability to lead teams, and attention to detail.
[Provide specific examples of the candidate’s project management experience, such as successfully completing complex projects or managing teams of diverse individuals. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.]
I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your organization and would excel in a project management role. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications or character.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Character reference for a healthcare position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the healthcare position at your organization. I have had the pleasure of working with [Candidate’s Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their compassionate patient care, attention to detail, and ability to work well under pressure.
[Provide specific examples of the candidate’s healthcare expertise, such as providing exceptional patient care or handling emergency situations with professionalism and composure. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.]
I believe that [Candidate’s Name] would be an asset to your healthcare team and would make a positive impact on the lives of their patients. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions about [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications or character.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character reference for a technology position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the technology position at your company. I have worked with [Candidate’s Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies.
[Provide specific examples of the candidate’s technology experience, such as designing and implementing complex systems or troubleshooting technical issues. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.]
I am confident that [Candidate’s Name] would be an excellent addition to your technology team and would contribute to the company’s success. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications or character.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Character reference for a finance position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the finance position at your company. I have worked with [Candidate’s Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their financial knowledge, analytical skills, and attention to detail.
[Provide specific examples of the candidate’s financial experience, such as managing budgets or creating financial reports. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.]
I believe that [Candidate’s Name] would be an asset to your finance team and would help the company achieve its financial goals. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions about [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications or character.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently asked questions about writing a character reference for a job
Q: What should I include in a character reference letter?
A: A character reference letter should include your relationship to the candidate, an assessment of their character and work ethic, specific examples of their strengths, and an offer to provide additional information if needed.
Q: Who should I address my character reference letter to?
A: Address your letter to the hiring manager or recruiter who requested the reference. If you are unsure who to address the letter to, you can contact the company and ask for clarification.
Q: Can I write a character reference letter for a family member?
A: While it is not recommended to write a character reference letter for a family member, it may be acceptable in certain circumstances. If you do choose to write a letter for a family member, it’s important to be honest and objective in your assessment.
Q: Should I use formal or informal language in my character reference letter?
A: It’s best to use a professional, formal tone in your character reference letter. Avoid slang or casual language, and make sure your letter is well-organized and easy to read.
Q: How long should a character reference letter be?
A: A character reference letter should be one to two pages long, depending on the specific requirements of the job application.
Q: Can I use a character reference letter for multiple job applications?
A: Yes, you can use a character reference letter for multiple job applications, as long as the letter is relevant to the specific requirements of each position.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference letter for a job application can be a valuable way to support a friend or colleague in their career goals. By following the tips outlined in this article and using the examples provided, you can create a strong and effective letter that will help the candidate stand out from other applicants.