Are you in need of a personal reference but unsure of where to start? Look no further than these good personal reference examples. With detailed explanations and step-by-step tips, you’ll be able to find examples and edit them as needed to make them your own.
Tips for Writing a Good Personal Reference
Before diving into the examples, it’s important to understand what makes a good personal reference. Here are some tips:
- Start with a strong and personalized greeting.
- Provide specific examples of the person’s character and abilities.
- Show your personal relationship with the person and why you are qualified to write the reference.
- End with a complimentary close and offer to answer any further questions.
Good Personal Reference Example #1: Employment
Dear [Employer],
I am writing to highly recommend [Name] for employment at your company. [He/She] has worked with me for [X amount of time] and has consistently shown [specific skills and traits]. [He/She] has a strong work ethic and always goes above and beyond to ensure [his/her] work is of the highest quality.
Furthermore, [Name]’s ability to [specific examples] has greatly contributed to the success of our team. [He/She] is a valuable asset and I have no doubt that [he/she] will bring the same level of commitment and dedication to your company.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Good Personal Reference Example #2: Education
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my support for [Name]’s application to [University/School]. As [his/her] [teacher/counselor/mentor], I have had the pleasure of seeing [him/her] grow and develop into a [specific traits] individual.
[Name] consistently demonstrated [specific examples of academic ability], and has also been an active member of the community through [specific activities/organizations]. [He/She] is a dedicated student who always strives to achieve [his/her] best.
I have no doubt that [Name] will be a valuable addition to your university/school and I highly recommend [him/her] for admission.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Good Personal Reference Example #3: Volunteer Work
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to express my support for [Name]’s application to volunteer with [Organization]. I have known [him/her] for [X amount of time] and have had the pleasure of working alongside [him/her] on various community projects.
[Name] is an enthusiastic and dedicated volunteer who always goes above and beyond to ensure the success of the project. [He/She] is reliable, hardworking, and has excellent communication skills.
I highly recommend [Name] for any volunteer work with your organization and believe [he/she] will make a positive impact on the community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Good Personal Reference Example #4: Housing Rental
Dear Prospective Landlord,
I am writing to highly recommend [Name] as a tenant for your property. I have known [him/her] for [X amount of time] and can attest to [his/her] responsible and respectful character.
[Name] has always been prompt with rent payments and has taken care of [his/her] previous rental properties to a high standard. [He/She] is respectful of neighbors and has always maintained a clean and tidy living space.
I highly recommend [Name] as a tenant and have no doubt [he/she] will continue to be a responsible and respectful resident.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Good Personal Reference Example #5: Professional Recommendation
Dear [Employer/Colleague],
I am writing to highly recommend [Name] for any professional opportunities that may arise. [He/She] has been an integral part of our team and has consistently shown a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and an eagerness to learn and grow.
[Name] has a natural ability to [specific examples] and has contributed greatly to the success of our projects. [He/She] is adaptable, reliable, and always willing to take on new challenges.
I highly recommend [Name] for any professional opportunities and believe [he/she] will be an asset to any team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Good Personal Reference Example #6: Character Reference
Dear [Recipient],
I am writing to highly recommend [Name] as a person of strong character and integrity. [He/She] has been a friend and confidant for [X amount of time] and I have had the pleasure of seeing [him/her] grow and develop into a [specific traits] individual.
[Name] is honest, trustworthy, and has a strong sense of empathy. [He/She] is always willing to lend a helping hand and has a positive attitude towards life. [His/Her] character is truly commendable.
I highly recommend [Name] as a person of strong character and integrity and have no doubt [he/she] will make a positive impact on any community or organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a personal reference?
A good personal reference should include specific examples of the person’s character and abilities, as well as your personal relationship with the person and why you are qualified to write the reference. It should also end with a complimentary close and offer to answer any further questions.
How do I write a greeting for a personal reference?
Start with a strong and personalized greeting, such as “Dear [Employer/Admissions Committee/Recipient].” Use the appropriate title and make sure the greeting is respectful and professional.
What should I include in the body of a personal reference?
The body of a personal reference should provide specific examples of the person’s character and abilities, as well as your personal relationship with the person and why you are qualified to write the reference. Use concrete examples and avoid vague statements.
How do I end a personal reference?
End with a complimentary close, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” Offer to answer any further questions and provide your contact information.
How long should a personal reference be?
A personal reference should be 50 to 80 sentences long, depending on the specific requirements of the reference and the amount of detail you need to provide.
Can I edit these personal reference examples to fit my needs?
Yes, these personal reference examples are meant to serve as a guide and can be edited to fit your specific needs. Use them as a starting point and personalize them to make them your own.
Conclusion
Writing a personal reference can seem daunting, but with these good personal reference examples and step-by-step tips, you’ll be able to write a strong and effective reference in no time. Remember to provide specific examples and show your personal relationship with the person, and end with a complimentary close and offer to answer any further questions. Good luck!