Casual Character Reference Example: A Friend’s Perspective

What is a Character Reference?

A character reference is a document or testimonial written by someone who knows you personally and can vouch for your character, work ethic, and other positive qualities. These references are often requested for job applications, college admissions, or other important life events.

When to Use a Character Reference

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Character references are typically used when:

Applying for a job

Applying for college or graduate school

Renting an apartment

Applying for a loan

Seeking a promotion

How to Ask for a Character Reference

When asking someone to write a character reference for you, it’s important to be respectful of their time and provide them with all the necessary information. Here are some tips:

Choose the right person: Select someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your character and abilities.

Be specific: Clearly explain why you need the reference and what information you’d like them to include.

Provide contact information: Give the person your resume, a list of questions they can answer, and your contact information.

Follow up: Thank the person for their time and let them know if you need anything else.

Character Reference Example

To: [Hiring Manager’s Name]
From: [Your Name]
Date: [Date]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

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

[Person’s Name] is a highly motivated and dedicated individual with a strong work ethic. They are always willing to go the extra mile to complete tasks and achieve goals. In addition to their technical skills, [Person’s Name] is also an excellent communicator and team player. They have a positive attitude and are always willing to help others.

I believe that [Person’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your team. I wholeheartedly recommend them for the [Job Title] position.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

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

Conclusion

Character references can be a powerful tool for showcasing your positive qualities and increasing your chances of success. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can effectively request and use character references to your advantage.

FAQs

1. Who should I ask for a character reference? You should ask someone who knows you well and can speak positively about your character and abilities. This could be a former employer, teacher, coach, or mentor.
2. What information should I include in my character reference request? You should provide the person with your resume, a list of questions they can answer, and your contact information.
3. How long should a character reference be? A character reference should be approximately one page long.
4. Can I ask for a character reference from a friend or family member? While it’s possible to ask for a reference from a friend or family member, it’s generally best to ask someone who has professional experience working with you.
5. What should I do if I’m unable to find a character reference? If you’re having trouble finding a character reference, you may want to consider using a professional reference service.

Character Reference Example