When someone asks you to provide a character reference, it means that they trust you and value your opinion. However, it can be difficult to know what to include in a character reference, especially if you’ve never written one before. In this article, we’ll provide some examples of good character references and explain what makes them effective.
Tips for Writing Good Character References
To write an effective character reference, follow these tips:
1. Know the Purpose
Before you start writing, make sure you know the purpose of the character reference. Is it for a job application, a court case, or a personal matter? Tailor your reference to the situation.
2. Be Specific
A good character reference is specific and provides examples to back up your claims. Don’t just say someone is “honest” or “reliable” – give examples to show why you think that.
3. Be Positive
A character reference should be positive, but not overly so. Don’t exaggerate someone’s qualities or make unrealistic claims.
4. Use a Professional Tone
Your character reference should be written in a professional tone, even if it’s for a personal matter. Avoid slang or casual language.
5. Edit and Proofread
Before you submit your character reference, make sure to edit and proofread it carefully. Typos and errors can undermine your credibility.
Examples of Good Character References
Character Reference for a Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Jane Smith for the position of Marketing Assistant at your company. I have had the pleasure of working with Jane at XYZ Corporation for the past two years, and have always been impressed by her professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail.
Jane is a highly organized and motivated individual who is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that her work is of the highest quality. She is an excellent communicator and is skilled at working collaboratively with colleagues to achieve common goals.
I am confident that Jane would be an asset to your team and would excel in the role of Marketing Assistant. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
John Doe
Character Reference for a Court Case
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a character reference for Sarah Johnson, who is currently facing criminal charges. I have known Sarah for five years and can attest to her good character and strong moral values.
Sarah is a kind and compassionate person who is always willing to help others. She is a dedicated mother and a loyal friend. I have never known her to engage in any illegal or unethical behavior.
I believe that Sarah is genuinely remorseful for her actions and that she is committed to making amends. I urge the court to consider her good character when making a decision in this case.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Character Reference for a Personal Matter
Dear [Recipient],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my friend, Tom Jones. I have known Tom for over a decade and can attest to his honesty, reliability, and kindness.
Tom is a hardworking and dedicated individual who always puts the needs of others before his own. He is a loving husband and father who is deeply committed to his family. I have never known him to betray anyone’s trust or act in an unkind manner.
I hope that this character reference will be helpful to Tom in the matter at hand. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Jessica Brown
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a character reference?
A good character reference should include specific examples of the person’s positive qualities and why you think they would be a good fit for the situation at hand.
How long should a character reference be?
A character reference should be between 50 and 80 sentences long, depending on the situation and the specific requirements of the person requesting it.
Can I use a character reference for a job application?
Yes, a character reference can be a valuable addition to a job application, especially if the applicant does not have a lot of work experience or references.
Should I address the character reference to a specific person?
If possible, it’s always better to address the character reference to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or judge. This makes it more personal and shows that you have put some thought into the reference.
Can I use a generic character reference for multiple situations?
No, it’s best to tailor your character reference to the specific situation and requirements. Using a generic reference can come across as lazy or insincere.
Can I provide a character reference for a family member?
It’s generally not recommended to provide a character reference for a family member, as it can be seen as biased. However, if you have a professional relationship with the person in question, such as working together, it may be acceptable.
Conclusion
Providing a character reference can be a great way to help someone in need and show that you value their qualities and skills. By following these tips and examples, you can write an effective character reference that will make a positive impression.