Casual Character Reference Sample

What is a Character Reference?

A character reference is a document that provides information about an individual’s character, work ethic, and overall suitability for a particular role. It’s often requested by employers, educational institutions, or organizations as part of the application process.

When to Ask for a Character Reference

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You might need a character reference in various situations, including:

Job Applications: To bolster your candidacy and demonstrate your qualifications.

Educational Institutions: To support your admission or scholarship applications.

Professional Organizations: To gain membership or certification.

Rental Applications: To prove your reliability and trustworthiness as a tenant.

Who to Ask for a Character Reference

The best people to ask for character references are individuals who know you well and can provide positive and insightful information. Consider these options:

Friends: Close friends who can attest to your personality, values, and integrity.

Family Members: Relatives who have a strong relationship with you and can vouch for your character.

Colleagues: Current or former coworkers who can speak to your work ethic, skills, and professionalism.

Mentors: Teachers, coaches, or other mentors who have observed your growth and development.

What to Include in a Character Reference

A character reference should be concise, informative, and specific. Here are the key elements to include:

Your Name and Relationship to the Referrer: Clearly state your name and how you know the person writing the reference.

Date: Indicate the date the reference was written.

Contact Information: Provide your contact information so the recipient can reach out if needed.

Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and your relationship with the person being referred.

Positive Attributes: Highlight the individual’s positive qualities, such as their honesty, reliability, intelligence, or work ethic.

Specific Examples: Support your statements with concrete examples that demonstrate the individual’s character and abilities.

Recommendation: Clearly state your recommendation for the individual and express your confidence in their suitability for the role.

Contact Information: Include the referrer’s contact information so the recipient can follow up if necessary.

Sample Character Reference

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Referrer’s Name] for [Position or Opportunity]. I have known [Referrer’s Name] for [Number] years and have had the pleasure of working with them on [Project or Task].

[Referrer’s Name] is a highly motivated and dedicated individual who consistently exceeds expectations. Their [Positive Quality 1] and [Positive Quality 2] have made them a valuable asset to our team. I have been particularly impressed by their [Specific Example 1] and [Specific Example 2].

I wholeheartedly recommend [Referrer’s Name] for [Position or Opportunity]. I am confident that they will be a valuable addition to your team.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or require further information.

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

Conclusion

Obtaining strong character references can be a valuable asset in your personal and professional life. By carefully selecting referrers and providing them with the necessary information, you can increase your chances of success in your endeavors. Remember to express your gratitude to those who have taken the time to write references on your behalf.

FAQs

1. Can I ask a friend who I haven’t seen in years to write a character reference? While it’s possible, it might be more beneficial to ask someone who has a more recent and personal connection with you.
2. How long should a character reference be? Aim for a length of around 200-300 words, focusing on the most relevant and impactful information.
3. Can I write my own character reference? It’s generally not recommended to write your own reference, as it may lack objectivity and credibility.
4. What should I do if a potential employer asks for character references before I have a chance to interview? You can politely request to provide references after the initial interview, giving you more time to gather them.
5. Is it okay to ask for character references from people who don’t know you personally? It’s generally best to ask for references from people who have a personal relationship with you and can provide firsthand insights into your character.

Character Reference Sample