Many employers ask candidates to provide a character reference letter so they can get a sense of who the person behind the resume really is. If you’ve been asked to write one for a friend, former colleague, or someone in your personal network, it can be flattering—but also daunting if you’ve never done it.
Referring to an example of a character reference letter can help take some of the pressure off. It also serves as valuable information if you need a personal reference for your own job application. When you know what to include, you can guide your reference on what to say.
Before writing a character letter, or requesting one for yourself, you should understand what it actually is and isn’t. Start by looking at what it’s called—a character reference letter. In other words, you should be writing about the person’s character traits, personal values, and the qualities that might make them a trustworthy hire.
You can touch on their work ethic and talents, but that’s secondary. Employers want to know if this person will get along with team members and fit in with their culture.
Think of it as if you were recommending your doctor to a family member, making introductionsbetween two colleagues, or even trying to set up two friends on a blind date. Similar to a letter of recommendation, the idea is you want to share the good qualities about the person and vouch for them on a personal level.
In this article, you’ll discover why you may need a character reference and who to ask for one. Then take a look at our personal reference example and follow our tips on how to create one of your own if requested by a colleague or friend.
Why You May Need a Character Reference
A character reference can be a valuable tool in your job application. At its core, it provides additional credibility and insight into your suitability for a potential employer.
While resumes and interviews are pivotal components, they often focus on technical skills, experience, and qualifications. In contrast, a character reference delves into your softer skills, such as reliability, integrity, and interpersonal skills.
Moreover, suppose there are gaps in your employment history, or you want to switch careers. In that case, a strong character reference can help compensate for a lack of direct experience by vouching for your aptitude and mindset. In certain circ*mstances, such as when applying for positions that require a high level of trust or security clearance, a character reference may be obligatory.
Who to Ask for a Character Reference
Selecting the right person to provide a character reference letter is a crucial decision. Ideally, you should aim for someone who can offer a well-rounded, authentic, and positive portrayal of you. Here are some people you might consider:
1. Mentors or Coaches
Mentors or coaches often have a unique vantage point from which to evaluate your character. They've likely observed you in situations that challenge you or require a high level of commitment and perseverance. Whether it's a mentor who has guided you in your career or a coach who has seen you navigate the intricacies of teamwork, they can speak to your dedication, resilience, and leadership skills.
2. Academic Contacts
A professor or academic advisor can be an invaluable character reference if you're a student, recent graduate, or applying for research or academic positions. They can discuss not just your intellectual capabilities but also qualities like punctuality, attention to detail, and the respect you show to faculty and peers.
3. Community or Volunteer Leaders
If you've been involved in any community service, social organizations, or volunteer projects, the leaders or supervisors of these groups can make excellent character references. They can discuss qualities such as empathy, altruism, and your ability to work well in diverse groups. They can also talk about your commitment level and ability to motivate others.
Character Reference Letter Example
Dear Mr. Banks,
I'm writing to share with you my whole-hearted endorsem*nt of Barbara Martin. I've known her for over 10 years as she's been a parent volunteer with me at our children's school. During this time, she's also been a successful freelance art director.
Barbara is dependable and always willing to step up and help others. Any time we needed flyers or help with our PTA newsletter, Barbara came through. Barbara's overall friendly demeanor and positive attitude are contagious. She's always willing to help, whether providing tech support or creating a fun graphic to help promote our events on Facebook.
All in all, Barbara is definitely someone who would be valuable on any team. She is not only self-motivated and friendly but also highly skilled. Even though she has a lot going on, she's always happy to take the time to show up or respond to a message.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Best regards,
Ann Walters
123-321-4567
ann@email.com
Breaking Down the Sample Character Reference Letter
The first thing you’ll notice when you look at the sample character reference letter above is that it doesn’t discuss job accomplishments, technical skills, or academic degrees. It’s all about how Barbara is reliable, helpful, well-liked, and easy to work with.
In the first paragraph, the goal is to state up front that you’re happy to endorse the applicant, along with an explanation of how you know them. Be detailed about how long you know the person and the nature of your relationship. Hence, the reader knows that you’re more than just an acquaintance but someone who knows the person well.
The next paragraph can get into more detail about the person’s character. What positive things have you witnessed them do, what is their personality like, and how are they perceived by others? In the personal reference example above, it’s clear that Barbara goes out of her way to help others in her volunteer role and does it with a smile.
Next, wrap up and summarize why you believe this person would be a good hire, focusing on those key character strengths. Barbara sounds like someone who would be a positive force for any organization.
Close the letter by inviting the reader to reach out with any questions and provide your contact information. This is important since it shows that you’re willing to do all that you can to help—which, in turn, says a lot about Barbara.
Why is Your Character Reference Letter Important?
First and foremost, your letter serves as a personal endorsem*nt, adding a layer of trust and credibility to the person’s application. Employers are naturally inclined towards candidates recommended by people they can trust. Your insight into the person's character, work ethic, and skills can paint a fuller picture of them, giving a dimension that a resume can’t always capture.
Moreover, your letter can highlight soft skills and personal attributes that are vital in the workplace. In a world where technical skills are often at the forefront, drawing attention to a person's ability to work harmoniously in a team, their dedication, or their interpersonal skills can be a breath of fresh air.
Through this letter, you’re weaving a narrative combining professionalism and a personal touch. This testimony could resonate deeply with the potential employer, nudging them to see the value and uniqueness the person can bring to their team.
Tips to Make Your Character Reference Letter Shine
With the above sample as your guide, keep these strategies in mind as you create your own letter:
1. Communicate with the Person Requesting the Letter
Schedule a call or meeting with the candidate to understand their strengths, aspirations, and what they hope to achieve with this opportunity. This information can guide the tone and content of your letter.
Ask them if there are specific points or attributes they would like to see emphasized. It's also a good idea to request a copy of their resume to get a comprehensive view of their background, skills, and experiences.
Get a feel for the type of job the person is applying for and use this information to tailor your letter. For example, suppose they're applying for a position working with children, and they tutored your child. In that case, some good context to include might be about how they got your child to go from hating math to loving it.
2. Share Details and Anecdotes
This is where you step into the role of a storyteller, recounting specific instances that spotlight the person's strengths and unique qualities. The goal is to provide a vivid picture, incorporating moments where they have exhibited remarkable qualities such as kindness, compassion, or integrity.
When adding details, remember not to get too personal and be conscious of privacy boundaries. For example, if the person went through a health battle, it's probably too much information for your letter. Instead, you can talk about their willingness to go the extra mile, even while juggling other responsibilities.
3. Offer a Complete Picture
Presenting a complete picture of the person goes beyond just listing their qualities. Discuss their growth to craft a narrative showcasing a dynamic, multifaceted person who continually strives to better themselves and their community.
4. Maintain the Right Tone
Maintain a tone that's friendly yet not overly casual. Always use positive and sincere language to create an atmosphere of trust and respect. Your goal is to welcome the reader while maintaining professionalism.
5. Be Honest
Ensure that all the details and instances mentioned in the letter are correct. It's crucial to avoid any form of misinformation as it could potentially harm the candidate's prospects.
While it's important to highlight their positive traits, avoid going overboard with praises or exaggerations. Maintain a realistic and grounded portrayal of the person.
6. Check for Errors
Make sure to meticulously proofread your letter, ironing out any grammatical errors or inconsistencies. This step is crucial in presenting a polished, professional document that reflects well on both you and the person you’re recommending.
7. Keep it Short and Sweet
Recruiters are busy. So, even when it comes to reference letters, make things easy for them and respect their time by keeping your letter clear and succinct. Resist the urge to gush or waffle and stick to what’s important for them to know. Follow the format of the character letter sample above and it should come out to be a good length. You want it to fit on one page.
Find Job Opportunities That Call for a Character Reference Letter
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