Casual Character Reference Example

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. It’s often used in job applications, college admissions, or other situations where someone needs to verify their qualifications.

When Do You Need a Character Reference?

Job Applications: To bolster your resume and demonstrate that you have the qualities employers seek.

College Admissions: To provide additional insight into your personal and academic character.

Rental Applications: To reassure landlords about your reliability and responsibility.

Professional Certifications: To verify your suitability for a specific field.

Who Should Write Your Character Reference?

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Ideally, your character references should be people who know you well and can provide positive and specific examples of your character traits. This could include:

Friends: People you’ve known for a long time and who can attest to your personality and values.

Family Members: Close relatives who can provide insights into your personal life and work ethic.

Teachers: Professors or instructors who have observed your academic performance and behavior.

Colleagues: Coworkers or supervisors who can vouch for your work ethic and skills.

What Information Should a Character Reference Include?

Your Name: The person you’re writing the reference for.

Your Relationship: How you know the person (e.g., friend, colleague, family member).

Length of Acquaintance: How long you’ve known the person.

Specific Examples: Concrete examples of the person’s positive qualities (e.g., reliability, creativity, problem-solving skills).

Recommendation: A clear statement of recommendation, such as “I wholeheartedly recommend [Person’s Name] for [Position].”

Character Reference Example

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Person’s Name] for the [Position] position at [Company]. I have known [Person’s Name] for [Number] years, and during that time, I have been consistently impressed by their [Positive quality 1], [Positive quality 2], and [Positive quality 3].

[Provide specific examples of the person’s qualities, such as anecdotes or accomplishments.]

I have no hesitation in recommending [Person’s Name] for this position. They are a highly motivated, talented, and reliable individual who would be a valuable asset to your team.

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

Conclusion

A well-written character reference can significantly enhance your chances of success in job applications, college admissions, and other situations. By choosing the right people to write your references and providing specific examples of your positive qualities, you can create a compelling document that showcases your character and abilities.

FAQs

1. Can I write my own character reference? While you can write a draft, it’s generally best to have someone else write the reference to provide an unbiased perspective.
2. How many character references should I provide? The number of references needed can vary depending on the situation. It’s a good idea to check the specific requirements of the application you’re submitting.
3. What if I don’t have any close friends or family members? Consider asking former teachers, mentors, or community leaders who know you well.
4. Can I use a generic character reference template? While templates can be helpful, it’s important to personalize your reference to make it more impactful.
5. Should I include my contact information in the reference? Yes, you should include your contact information so the recipient can reach out to you if necessary.

Character Reference Example