A Friendly Face: A Character Reference

What is a Character Reference?

A character reference is a document or testimonial that provides information about a person’s character, work ethic, and overall suitability for a particular role or situation. It’s often requested by employers, schools, or organizations to gain insight into an individual’s personality and qualifications.

When is a Character Reference Needed?

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Character references are typically required in the following situations:

Job Applications: Employers may ask for references to verify a candidate’s qualifications and suitability for a position.

Educational Institutions: Schools may require references for admission or scholarship applications.

Professional Organizations: Membership in certain organizations may require references to vouch for an individual’s character and qualifications.

How to Write a Character Reference

A well-written character reference should be concise, informative, and positive. Here’s a basic outline to follow:

1. Your Information: Include your name, title, company or organization, and contact information.
2. Relationship to the Person: Briefly describe your relationship to the individual (e.g., friend, coworker, neighbor).
3. Length of Time Known: Indicate how long you have known the person.
4. Positive Qualities: Highlight the individual’s positive qualities, such as their work ethic, reliability, intelligence, or interpersonal skills.
5. Specific Examples: Provide concrete examples to illustrate the person’s character and abilities.
6. Recommendation: End by offering a strong recommendation for the individual.

Example Character Reference

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Friend’s Name] for the [Job Position] position at [Company Name]. I have known [Friend’s Name] for [Number] years and have had the pleasure of working with them at [Company Name].

[Friend’s Name] is a highly motivated and dedicated individual. They consistently exceeded expectations in their role as [Job Title]. Their strong work ethic, combined with their excellent communication and problem-solving skills, made them an invaluable asset to our team.

I have always been impressed by [Friend’s Name]’s ability to [Positive quality, e.g., “work independently and efficiently”]. They are a team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand. I have no doubt that they would be a valuable addition to your team.

I wholeheartedly recommend [Friend’s Name] for this position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]

Conclusion

Writing a character reference for a friend is a great way to show your support and appreciation for them. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can create a compelling and informative document that will help your friend succeed in their endeavors.

FAQs

1. How long should a character reference be? A typical character reference is around 200-300 words.
2. Can I use a generic template for a character reference? While templates can be helpful, it’s important to personalize your reference to make it more impactful.
3. What should I avoid mentioning in a character reference? Avoid mentioning any negative qualities or personal information that is not relevant to the individual’s character or qualifications.
4. Can I ask the person I’m writing a reference for to review it? It’s generally a good idea to ask the person you’re writing a reference for to review it to ensure that you have accurately captured their qualities and accomplishments.
5. Should I include the person’s contact information in the reference? No, it’s best to provide your own contact information so that the recipient can reach out to you if necessary.

Character Reference Example For A Friend