When it comes to writing a resume, it’s not enough to simply list your skills and experience. You also need to have a character reference that can vouch for your personal qualities. A character reference in a resume is a statement from someone who knows you well and can attest to your work ethic, integrity, and other positive traits. Here’s what you need to know about including a character reference in your resume.
Tips for Including a Character Reference in Your Resume
If you’re planning to include a character reference in your resume, here are some tips to help you do it right:
1. Choose the Right Person
When selecting someone to provide a character reference, choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths. Ideally, this person should be a former employer, teacher, or mentor.
Dear [Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to provide a character reference for [Student’s Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [duration] and can attest to [his/her] strong work ethic and positive attitude.
[Student’s Name] consistently went above and beyond expectations and demonstrated excellent organizational and communication skills. [He/She] was also a great team player who was always willing to help out when needed.
I highly recommend [Student’s Name] for any future endeavors and feel confident that [he/she] will be an asset to any organization.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
2. Ask Permission
Before using someone as a character reference, make sure to ask for their permission. This will give them the opportunity to decline if they don’t feel comfortable providing a reference or don’t have enough knowledge of your work.
3. Customize Your Reference
Don’t use the same character reference for every job application. Instead, customize it to match the job requirements and company culture. This will show that you’ve put effort into your application and are a good fit for the position.
4. Keep it Concise
A character reference should be no more than one page long. Keep it concise and to the point, highlighting your strengths and personal qualities.
5. Edit It as Needed
Feel free to edit your character reference as needed to match the job requirements or address any feedback you receive from potential employers.
6. Provide Contact Information
Make sure to provide contact information for your character reference so potential employers can reach out if they have any questions.
7. Thank Your Reference
After using someone as a character reference, be sure to thank them for their time and effort. This will help maintain a positive relationship and increase the likelihood that they’ll be willing to provide a reference in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference in a resume?
A character reference in a resume is a statement from someone who knows you well and can speak to your personal qualities, such as your work ethic, integrity, and other positive attributes.
Who should I choose as a character reference?
You should choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths, such as a former employer, teacher, or mentor.
Can I use the same character reference for every job application?
No, you should customize your character reference for each job application to match the job requirements and company culture.
How long should a character reference be?
A character reference should be no more than one page long.
Should I ask permission before using someone as a character reference?
Yes, you should always ask for permission before using someone as a character reference.
How can I thank my character reference?
You can thank your character reference by sending a thank-you note or email, or by simply expressing your gratitude in person or over the phone.
Conclusion
Including a character reference in your resume can be a great way to showcase your personal qualities and stand out from other applicants. Just make sure to choose the right person, customize your reference for each job application, and keep it concise and to the point. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job!