When applying for a job, school, or other opportunities, a personal reference can be crucial to your success. That’s why having a Personal Reference Form Template can be extremely helpful. This template provides a structure for your reference to follow, ensuring that they include all the necessary information and present a professional image of you. In this article, we’ll give you tips on creating your own Personal Reference Form Template and provide seven examples to help you get started.
Tips for Creating Your Personal Reference Form Template
Creating your Personal Reference Form Template can seem daunting, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to crafting an effective and useful template.
1. Start with a clear title
Before you dive in, make sure you have a clear title for your form. This title should reflect the purpose of the form and make it easy for your reference to identify.
2. Include contact information
Make sure to include your contact information on the form, so your reference can get in touch with you if needed. This information should include your full name, phone number, email address, and any other relevant information.
3. Provide guidelines for content
Provide guidelines for the content of the reference. This can include suggestions for what to include, such as specific projects you worked on together, or how to structure the reference.
4. Give a deadline
Include a deadline for when you need the reference to be completed. This will ensure that your reference has a clear timeline and can complete the reference in a timely manner.
5. Edit as needed
Remember, your Personal Reference Form Template is not set in stone. You can edit it as needed, depending on the type of opportunity you are applying for and the feedback you receive from your references.
6. Use examples
Look at other Personal Reference Form Templates to get ideas for your own form. You can find examples online or ask friends or colleagues for their templates.
Seven Examples of Personal Reference Form Templates
1. Job Application
Greeting: Dear Hiring Manager,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to provide a personal reference for [Your Name], who has applied for a position at [Company Name]. I have known [Your Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their skills as [Skill]. [Give specific example].
Paragraph 2: In summary, I highly recommend [Your Name] for the position at [Company Name]. If you have any further questions or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
2. College Application
Greeting: To Whom It May Concern,
Paragraph 1: I am honored to have the opportunity to recommend [Your Name] for admission to [College or University Name]. During my time working with [Your Name], I have been consistently impressed with their [Skill]. [Give specific example].
Paragraph 2: In summary, [Your Name] is a highly motivated and talented individual who I believe would excel at [College or University Name]. Please contact me if you have any further questions or need additional information.
Complimentary Close: Best Regards,
3. Scholarship Application
Greeting: Dear Scholarship Committee,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for the [Name of Scholarship]. In my time working with [Your Name], I have been consistently impressed with their [Skill]. [Give specific example].
Paragraph 2: In summary, [Your Name] is an outstanding candidate for the [Name of Scholarship] and I highly recommend them. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need additional information.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
4. Volunteer Application
Greeting: Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to provide a personal reference for [Your Name], who is applying to volunteer at [Organization Name]. I have known [Your Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their skills as a [Skill]. [Give specific example].
Paragraph 2: In summary, [Your Name] would be an asset to [Organization Name] as a volunteer. If you have any further questions or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Complimentary Close: Best regards,
5. Graduate School Application
Greeting: Dear Admissions Committee,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to recommend [Your Name] for admission to [Graduate School Name]. In my time working with [Your Name], I have been consistently impressed with their [Skill]. [Give specific example].
Paragraph 2: In summary, [Your Name] is an outstanding candidate for [Graduate School Name] and I highly recommend them. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need additional information.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
6. Professional Reference
Greeting: To Whom It May Concern,
Paragraph 1: I am honored to provide a personal reference for [Your Name]. In my time working with [Your Name], I have been consistently impressed with their [Skill]. [Give specific example].
Paragraph 2: In summary, [Your Name] is a highly motivated and talented individual who has my highest recommendation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need additional information.
Complimentary Close: Best Regards,
7. Character Reference
Greeting: To Whom It May Concern,
Paragraph 1: I am writing to provide a personal reference for [Your Name]. I have known [Your Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their character and integrity. [Give specific example].
Paragraph 2: In summary, I highly recommend [Your Name] and believe that they would make a valuable addition to any organization or opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need additional information.
Complimentary Close: Sincerely,
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my Personal Reference Form Template?
Yes, you can change your Personal Reference Form Template as needed. It’s important to tailor the form to the specific opportunity or application you are applying for.
How do I choose the right Personal Reference Form Template?
You should choose a Personal Reference Form Template that fits the specific opportunity or application you are applying for. Look at examples online or ask friends or colleagues for their templates.
What should I include in my Personal Reference Form Template?
Your Personal Reference Form Template should include your contact information, guidelines for the content of the reference, and a deadline for completion.
Do I need a Personal Reference Form Template?
While not required, having a Personal Reference Form Template can make it easier for your references to provide a professional and organized reference.
Can I use the same Personal Reference Form Template for different applications?
While you can use the same Personal Reference Form Template for different applications, it’s important to tailor the form to the specific opportunity or application you are applying for.
What should I do if my reference doesn’t want to use the Personal Reference Form Template?
If your reference doesn’t want to use the Personal Reference Form Template, it’s important to respect their wishes. However, you can still provide them with any relevant information or guidelines to ensure they provide an effective reference.
Conclusion
Having a Personal Reference Form Template can make it easier for your references to provide an effective and professional reference. Follow these tips to create your own Personal Reference Form Template and use the seven examples provided to get started. Remember, the more organized and professional your reference, the better your chances of success.